Beaufort, SC Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Beaufort, SC

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Beaufort crime rate is 45.3% higher than the national average. These incidents are classified into two primary categories: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes include assault, robbery, rape and murder. Whereas property crimes encompass theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In the case of Beaufort, there were 43 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 331 per 100,000 individuals, 10.6% lower than the national average. Additionally, Beaufort recorded 396 property crimes, amounting to 3045 per 100,000 residents, 55.8% higher than the U.S. average.

When it comes to violent crimes per 100,000 people, Beaufort maintains a rate that is very similar to the national average. With 331 reported violent crimes, it falls in line with the national average of 370. This alignment suggests that Beaufort shares a similar crime profile with other cities, highlighting its comparable level of safety within the broader urban landscape.

In the most recently reported crime year, Beaufort registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Beaufort?

What do the local residents think about crime in Beaufort? Well, based on a recent survey of 70 people (conducted by AreaVibes), 36% of Beaufort residents said that there was virtually no crime and that they felt safe walking at night. Another 64% of respondents said that there was too much crime in the area and they did not feel safe walking alone at night.

Is Beaufort a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Beaufort is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Beaufort has an overall crime rate that is 45% higher than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 1.2 daily occurrences, comprising 0.12 violent crimes and 1.08 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Beaufort as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Beaufort Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Beaufort. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Beaufort has decreased by 15.6%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 10.4%, while property crime has decreased by 16.1%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Beaufort.

Potential Causes for Crime in Beaufort

Beaufort has a poverty rate of 18.9, 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.

Beaufort reports an unemployment rate of 1.7%, contrasting with the national average of 4.7%. Constrained employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-paying positions can contribute to elevated rates of unemployment and underemployment. Areas where individuals contend with joblessness or insufficient wages may display heightened susceptibility to an increase in criminal activities attributed to economic insecurity. Conversely, regions characterized by robust employment rates often witness a decrease in overall Beaufort crime rates.

Rising cost of living expenses, including increased housing costs, grocery, utility and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards crime, 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 Beaufort, the cost of living is 2.24% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.

Beaufort crime map