Bristol, VA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Bristol, VA

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Bristol crime rate is 32.1% 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 Bristol, there were 63 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 373 per 100,000 individuals, 0.8% higher than the national average. Additionally, Bristol recorded 456 property crimes, amounting to 2697 per 100,000 residents, 38% higher than the U.S. average.

For violent crimes per 100,000 people, Bristol has a rate of violent crime that is very close to the national average. There were a total of 373 violent crimes, while the national average reported 370. This is an indication that the level of crime is essentially on par with all other cities.

While murder rates in the United States have generally declined since 1990, recent years have seen an unfortunate uptick. Bristol stands out with one of the nation's highest murder rates among cities reporting crime data. In Bristol, a total of 2 murders were reported, equating to 12 murders per 100,000 residents. This statistic underscores the challenges facing the area in terms of severe violent crime and the importance of ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security within the community.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Bristol?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Bristol residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 12 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 42% of Bristol 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, 58% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Bristol a Safe Place to Live?

Is Bristol 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, Bristol has a crime rate that is higher than the national average by 32%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 1.42 daily incidents, encompassing 0.17 violent crimes and 1.25 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Bristol as a potential place to call home.

Has Crime in Bristol Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Bristol. 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 Bristol has increased by 19%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 7.4%, while property crime has increased by 23.9%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Bristol.

Potential Causes for Crime in Bristol

Bristol reports an unemployment rate of 3.7%, 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 Bristol crime rates.

Regions characterized by high population density frequently encompass expansive urban hubs that offer diverse economic prospects. In such areas, income inequality can be exacerbated, creating pockets of poverty alongside affluence. Economic disparities within these regions may correlate with elevated property crimes and, in certain instances, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density numbers generally exhibit reduced Bristol crime rates. Bristol registers a population density of 1325.4 people per square mile, in contrast to the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.

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 Bristol is $127,900, compared to a national average of $184,700.

Bristol crime map