St. Augustine, FL Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in St. Augustine, FL

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in St. Augustine is 27% higher than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In St. Augustine, there were 50 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 336 per 100,000 individuals, 9.1% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 389 property crimes, amounting to 2615 per 100,000 residents, 33.8% higher than the U.S. average.

St. Augustine exhibits a violent crime rate that closely echoes the national average reported by all cities, with 336 incidents per 100,000 people, in line with the nationwide figure of 370. This uniformity underscores St. Augustine as a community where safety standards align seamlessly with the broader national context, delivering residents a steadfast and dependable sense of security.

During the most recently reported crime year, St. Augustine 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.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in St. Augustine?

AreaVibes surveyed 158 local residents in St. Augustine to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 49% of people answered that there was very little crime in St. Augustine and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 51% 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 St. Augustine a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is St. Augustine 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 St. Augustine crime rate is 27% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 1.2 crimes per day - 0.14 violent crimes and 1.07 property crimes.

Has Crime in St. Augustine Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in St. Augustine. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in St. Augustine has decreased by 17.6%. Violent crimes have decreased by 34.2%, while property crimes have decreased by 14.9%. 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 St. Augustine

St. Augustine has a population density of 1582.2 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 St. Augustine 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 St. Augustine, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 4.51, 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 St. Augustine, the average monthly rent stands at $1,118, while the national average is $949 per month.

St. Augustine crime map