Charleston, MS Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Charleston, MS

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Charleston crime rate is 48.2% 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 Charleston, there were 26 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 1518 per 100,000 individuals, 310.4% higher than the national average. Additionally, Charleston recorded 33 property crimes, amounting to 1926 per 100,000 residents, 1.4% lower than the U.S. average.

Charleston has gained notoriety as one of the most dangerous cities in the United States, given its alarming violent crime rate of 1518 crimes per 100,000 people. In fact, Charleston falls within the lowest 10% among cities reporting violent crimes last year, resulting in a concerning 1 in 66 likelihood of experiencing a violent crime. It's important to note that safety levels may vary across different areas within the city, and this statistic doesn't necessarily reflect the entire city's situation regarding violent crime.

Although the murder rates in America have decreased steadily since 1990, over the last few years there has been an uptick. Charleston has one of the highest murder rates in the country when compared to all other cities that reported crime in the U.S. There were a total of 3 murders in Charleston, which is 175 murders per 100,000 people.

In the most recent release, Charleston reported a property crime rate that closely aligns with the national average. In Charleston, there were 1926 reported property crimes, a figure consistent with the national average of 1954 per 100,000 individuals. This positions the area as maintaining a level of safety and security on par with the typical city. The harmonious statistics underscore a balanced commitment to community well-being, offering residents a sense of stability and peace in their surroundings.

Is Charleston a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Charleston 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, Charleston has an overall crime rate that is 48% higher than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.16 daily occurrences, comprising 0.07 violent crimes and 0.09 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Charleston as a potential place to establish residency.

Potential Causes for Crime in Charleston

In Charleston, the poverty rate currently stands at 37.9%, which contrasts with the national average of 15.1%. It's essential to recognize that the economic status of a city's inhabitants could be a pivotal factor influencing crime stats. Communities grappling with high poverty rates and income inequality are often susceptible to elevated crime levels, as some individuals may turn to unlawful activities to fulfill their essential needs. While lower poverty rates could lead to a reduction in Charleston crime rates.

The impact of law enforcement and community policing efforts plays a crucial role in shaping crime rates in any city. A robust and cooperative bond between law enforcement and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, enhancing overall safety. In Charleston, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 5.04, differing from the national average of 3.25. Effective law enforcement hinges not solely on officer numbers but also on the manner in which they interact and collaborate with the community. Building trust and cooperation are central tenets of community policing, amplifying its influence on crime prevention.

Elevated rental costs can generate economic strain for both individuals and families, particularly those with restricted financial means. When a substantial proportion of one's income is allocated to housing costs, it often leaves limited resources for fulfilling other crucial necessities such as groceries, healthcare and education. This financial pressure can fuel desperation, potentially prompting individuals to resort to criminal actions, including theft or fraud, as a means of coping with their financial hardships. In Charleston, the average monthly rent stands at $526, while the national average is $949 per month.

Charleston crime map