Ashland, VA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Ashland, VA

The Ashland crime rates are 19.1% higher than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 44 violent crimes in Ashland (574 per 100,000 people), which is 55.3% higher than the national average and there were a total of 168 property crimes (2193 per 100,000 residents) which is 12.2% higher than average.

In the latest reported crime year, Ashland recorded zero homicides. This statistic potentially positions the city as a paragon of security, radiating a profound sense of safety for its residents. A low number of severe violent crimes instills a deep feeling of well-being among its community but also establishes a lofty benchmark for other locales aspiring to foster equally secure environments.

Ashland maintains a property crime rate that closely resembles the national norm. In Ashland, 2193 property crimes were reported, aligning with the national average of 1954 per 100,000 individuals. Consequently, the area's safety profile stands on par with the average city, neither significantly safer nor more dangerous. This consistency underscores a balanced commitment to community safety and security, providing residents with a stable and reassuring living environment.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Ashland?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Ashland residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 7 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 29% of Ashland residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 71% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Ashland a Safe Place to Live?

Is Ashland a safe place to live? While the answer may not be straightforward due to variations in safety levels across the city, gaining an understanding of the overall crime rate can prove to be advantageous. In general, Ashland has a crime rate that is higher than the national average by 19%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 0.58 daily incidents, encompassing 0.12 violent crimes and 0.46 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Ashland as a potential place to call home.

Has Crime in Ashland Increased Since Last Year?

In the most recent crime report, year-over-year crime rates in Ashland has increased by 23.3%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Ashland, aiding residents in assessing whether it is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. These crime rates are categorized into two primary groups: violent and property crimes. Year-over-year, violent crime has increased by 18.9%, while property crime has increased by 24.4%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about whether or not Ashland is a safe place to live.

Potential Causes for Crime in Ashland

Ashland has a poverty rate of 13.4, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.

Escalating cost of living expenses, encompassing exorbitant housing costs, grocery and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards criminal activities, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In Ashland, the cost of living is 0.33% lower than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.

In areas where housing affordability is an issue, crime can become a significant concern. Some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions, which can increase stress and potentially contribute to domestic disputes and related crimes. The median home price in Ashland is $195,700, compared to a national average of $184,700.

Ashland crime map