Blacksburg, VA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Blacksburg, VA

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Blacksburg is 73.1% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Blacksburg, there were 20 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 44 per 100,000 individuals, 88.2% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 266 property crimes, amounting to 581 per 100,000 residents, 70.3% lower than the U.S. average.

Boasting a crime rate of 625, well below the national average of 2324, Blacksburg emerges as a standout destination for those seeking a secure place to reside in the United States. This crime rate is derived from the total occurrences of both violent and property crimes per 100,000 residents, underscoring the unwavering dedication of Blacksburg to ensure a safe living environment for its residents.

Blacksburg shines as one of the safest cities in the United States, thanks to its remarkably low rate of only 44 violent incidents per 100,000 residents. This impressive safety record has made Blacksburg an attractive choice for individuals seeking a secure and hospitable community to call home.

Property crime rates per 100,000 individuals have exhibited a consistent decrease of about 50% since 1990, with a minor upturn observed in recent years. According to the latest crime data, Blacksburg maintains a property crime rate of 581 incidents per 100,000 people, significantly below the national average of 1954. This serves as a strong indication of the status of Blacksburg as a secure and desirable place to reside, emphasizing its commitment to safety and well-being within the community.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Blacksburg?

AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Blacksburg residents. Out of the respondents (17 in total), 71% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Blacksburg were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 29% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.

Is Blacksburg a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Blacksburg a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Blacksburg crime rate is 73% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.78 crimes per day - 0.05 violent crimes and 0.73 property crimes.

Has Crime in Blacksburg Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Blacksburg. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Blacksburg has decreased by 7.4%. Violent crimes have decreased by 42.9%, while property crimes have decreased by 2.9%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

Potential Causes for Crime in Blacksburg

Blacksburg has a population density of 2249 people per square mile, while with the national average is 90.6 people per square mile. Cities characterized by high population density are frequently larger urban centers offering diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality may be accentuated, resulting in the coexistence of poverty and affluence. Such economic disparities can contribute to elevated property crimes and on occasion, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density generally record lower Blacksburg crime rates.

In Blacksburg, the cost of living is 7.44% higher than the national average. A high cost of living can induce economic stress for locals, especially those with limited financial resources. When people grapple with soaring housing expenses, utility bills, healthcare costs, and other essential necessities, they may be driven towards criminal activities, including theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities boasting a lower cost of living may mitigate economic pressures and potentially result in reduced crime rates.

Blacksburg has an average rental rate of $1,141 per month, compared to the national average of $949. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.

Blacksburg crime map