Key West, FL Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Key West, FL

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Key West crime rate is 19.4% 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 Key West, there were 125 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 478 per 100,000 individuals, 29.2% higher than the national average. Additionally, Key West recorded 601 property crimes, amounting to 2297 per 100,000 residents, 17.5% higher than the U.S. average.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Key West?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Key West residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 92 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 51% of Key West 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, 49% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Key West a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Key West 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, Key West has an overall crime rate that is 19% higher than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 1.99 daily occurrences, comprising 0.34 violent crimes and 1.65 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Key West as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Key West Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Key West. 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 Key West has increased by 30.6%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 17.9%, while property crime has increased by 33.6%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Key West.

Potential Causes for Crime in Key West

Key West has a poverty rate that stands at 10.8, in contrast to the national average of 15.1. Historically, a direct correlation has been observed between poverty rates and crime stats. Higher poverty rates have led to higher crime rates, while lower poverty rates have led to a reduction in Key West crime rates. Income disparities and heightened poverty levels can serve as catalysts for elevated or reduced criminal activity, as individuals may or may not turn to illicit means to fulfill their basic needs. This could be one of many factors that may influence crime.

Key West has a population density of 4374.6 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 90.6 people per square mile. High population density cities are often large urban hubs teeming with diverse economic opportunities. Within these environments, income disparities can become pronounced, leading to higher poverty levels. This economic divide may contribute to an uptick in property crimes and, occasionally, violent crimes. In contrast, areas characterized by low population density typically exhibit lower Key West crime rates.

In cities grappling with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves needing to reside in cramped or subpar housing conditions, elevating stress levels and potentially fueling domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. Key West has a median home price of $686,700, deviating from the national average of $184,700. Large disparities in housing costs can significantly impact the well-being of residents and the prevalence of crime within the community.

Key West crime map