Harrisburg, AR Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Harrisburg, AR

Crime is typically categorized into two main types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. Based on the most recent report, the Harrisburg crime rate is higher than the national average by 1.7%. Specifically, there were 16 violent crimes in Harrisburg, equivalent to 728 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 96.8%. Furthermore, Harrisburg recorded 36 property crimes, amounting to 1637 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 16.2%.

In terms of the total Harrisburg crime rate per 100,000 people, it falls within the midrange when compared to other cities across the United States. Our analysis of total crimes, encompassing both violent and property offenses in Harrisburg, revealed that the reported crime rates closely align with the nationwide average reported by other areas.

Harrisburg ranks among the most perilous cities in the United States, bearing a violent crime rate of 728 per 100,000 people, positioning it within the lowest 10% of all U.S. cities reporting crime statistics. The odds of falling victim to violent crime in Harrisburg stand at 1 in every 138 residents, emphasizing the pressing need for enhanced safety measures and community engagement to address this significant concern.

While murder rates in the United States have generally declined since 1990, recent years have seen an unfortunate uptick. Harrisburg stands out with one of the nation's highest murder rates among cities reporting crime data. In Harrisburg, a total of 1 murders were reported, equating to 45 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.

Is Harrisburg a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Harrisburg 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 Harrisburg crime rate is 2% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.14 crimes per day - 0.04 violent crimes and 0.1 property crimes.

Has Crime in Harrisburg Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Harrisburg. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Harrisburg has increased by 62.5%. Violent crimes have increased by 6.7%, while property crimes have increased by 111.8%. 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 Harrisburg

In Harrisburg, the cost of living is 18.76% lower 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.

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 Harrisburg, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 1.75, 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.

The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Harrisburg stands at $73,600, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

Harrisburg crime map