Harlan, KY Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Harlan, KY

The Harlan crime rates are 20.6% lower 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 3 violent crimes in Harlan (179 per 100,000 people), which is 51.7% lower than the national average and there were a total of 28 property crimes (1668 per 100,000 residents) which is 14.7% lower than average.

During the most recently reported crime year, Harlan experienced a total of 0 reported murders. This statistic paints it as a beacon of security when it comes to severe violent crimes. Such an achievement not only instills a profound sense of security for its residents but also sets a high standard for other communities striving to create similarly secure environments. It underscores the area as a place where safety is a top priority, enhancing its appeal as a desirable location to live and thrive.

Is Harlan a Safe Place to Live?

Is Harlan 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, Harlan has a crime rate that is lower than the national average by 21%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 0.08 daily incidents, encompassing 0.01 violent crimes and 0.08 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Harlan as a potential place to call home.

Potential Causes for Crime in Harlan

In Harlan, the poverty rate currently stands at 42.5%, 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 Harlan 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 Harlan crime rates. Harlan registers a population density of 1083.8 people per square mile, in contrast to the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.

The educational level achieved in any given city can influence crime rates significantly. Greater educational achievement is frequently associated with decreased crime rates, as it offers individuals improved job prospects and alternatives to engaging in crime related activities. Conversely, lower educational attainment rates tend to coincide with elevated crime rates. In Harlan, 76.6% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, in contrast to the national average where 83% have achieved high school graduation.

Harlan crime map