Oak Ridge, TN Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Oak Ridge, TN

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 Oak Ridge crime rate is lower than the national average by 10.1%. Specifically, there were 102 violent crimes in Oak Ridge, equivalent to 316 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 14.5%. Furthermore, Oak Ridge recorded 572 property crimes, amounting to 1774 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 9.2%.

The Oak Ridge crime rate is about average when compared to all the other cities across the U.S. per 100,000 residents. When we compared the total crimes (violent and property) in Oak Ridge, we found that the reported crime rates were almost equal to the average of all other areas that reported crime.

Oak Ridge maintains a property crime rate that closely resembles the national norm. In Oak Ridge, 1774 property crimes were reported, aligning with the national average of 1954 per 100,000 individuals. Consequently, the area's safety profile stands on par with the average city, neither significantly safer nor more dangerous. This consistency underscores a balanced commitment to community safety and security, providing residents with a stable and reassuring living environment.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Oak Ridge?

AreaVibes surveyed 21 local residents in Oak Ridge to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 71% of people answered that there was very little crime in Oak Ridge and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 29% of people responded that there was far too much crime and they would be hesitant to walk the streets alone at night. Keep in mind that the opinions of residents may vary depending on which area they live in.

Is Oak Ridge a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in Oak Ridge, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Oak Ridge presents a total crime rate that is 10% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Oak Ridge experiences an average of 1.85 daily crimes, comprising 0.28 violent incidents and 1.57 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.

Has Crime in Oak Ridge Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in Oak Ridge crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Oak Ridge has decreased by 23.9% year over year. Violent crime has decreased by 32% and property crime has decreased by 22.3%.

Potential Causes for Crime in Oak Ridge

Highly populated regions typically encompass expansive urban hubs teeming with diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality can be exacerbated, giving rise to enclaves of poverty amid affluence. Communities marked by economic disparities may contend with heightened property crimes, and in certain instances, violent crimes. Conversely, regions characterized by low population density often exhibit lower Oak Ridge crime rates. For instance, in Oak Ridge, the population density stands at 341.6 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.

In Oak Ridge, 87.5% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, whereas the national average stands at 83%. The educational makeup of any city can exert a significant influence on crime rates. Typically, higher levels of educational attainment are associated with reduced crime rates, as they furnish individuals with improved employment prospects and viable alternatives to engaging in criminal activities. Conversely, communities characterized by lower educational achievement often grapple with higher crime rates, as limited opportunities may drive individuals towards criminal behavior.

Oak Ridge has an average rental rate of $868 per month, compared to the national average of $949. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.

Oak Ridge crime map