Virginia Beach is the largest city in Virginia, situated along the southeastern coast of the state. Known for its stunning beaches, extensive boardwalk, and numerous recreational opportunities, Virginia Beach is a safe place to live, attracting both residents and tourists. The city is not only a popular vacation destination but also a thriving community for families, retirees, and young professionals.
Crime Rates in Virginia Beach
When evaluating whether a city is safe to live in, one of the first things people look at is the crime rate. According to data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, Virginia Beach is generally considered safer than many cities of comparable size across the United States. As of the latest available data, the city’s crime rate is well below the national average for both violent and property crimes.
Violent Crime in Virginia Beach
The violent crime rate in Virginia Beach is considerably lower than the national average. Residents have a 1 in 1,139 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime, compared to 1 in 427 in Virginia overall. The most common types of violent crimes in Virginia Beach include assault, robbery, rape, and murder. For every 1,000 residents, the city reports:
- Murder: 0.05 per 1,000 (21 total)
- Rape: 0.12 per 1,000 (54 total)
- Robbery: 0.31 per 1,000 (139 total)
- Assault: 0.41 per 1,000 (186 total)
Property Crime in Virginia Beach
Property crime, while more common, also remains below national averages. In Virginia Beach, the chance of becoming a victim of property crime is 1 in 62, slightly better than the Virginia average of 1 in 59. The breakdown of property crimes per 1,000 residents in the city includes:
- Burglary: 0.77 per 1,000 (352 total)
- Theft: 13.64 per 1,000 (6,216 total)
- Motor Vehicle Theft: 1.76 per 1,000 (801 total)
Safest Neighborhoods in Virginia Beach
Even within cities that are generally considered safe, some neighborhoods will naturally offer a greater sense of security than others, so moving to Virginia Beach will be your right choice. Virginia Beach is no exception. Is Virginia Beach a safe place to live across all its neighborhoods? Here are some of the safest areas known for their low crime rates and family-friendly environments.
1. Sandbridge
Sandbridge is a quiet, beachside community located in the southern part of Virginia Beach. Known for its luxurious beach homes and secluded feel, it is one of the safest areas in the city. With low crime rates and a strong sense of community, Sandbridge is popular among retirees and families alike. The absence of major commercial developments also means fewer incidents of property crime.
2. Great Neck
Great Neck is another highly regarded neighborhood in Virginia Beach, known for its excellent schools, parks, and upscale homes. It boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the city, and its well-maintained residential areas make it an ideal spot for families looking for a peaceful place to settle. The neighborhood’s proximity to the oceanfront also adds to its appeal, without compromising on safety.
3. Kempsville
Kempsville is a well-established suburban neighborhood offering a mix of residential housing, schools, and local amenities. This area is favored by families and professionals due to its strong community bonds and relatively low crime rates. With easy access to public services and a highly responsive local police presence, Kempsville remains one of the top choices for safe living in Virginia Beach.
4. Princess Anne
Princess Anne is a historical district that has transformed into one of the safest and most family-friendly neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. The area is well-protected by community policing efforts and is known for its serene, suburban atmosphere. Its proximity to high-quality schools and medical facilities only enhances its attractiveness for long-term living.
Factors Contributing to Safety in Virginia Beach
Several factors contribute to making Virginia Beach a safe place to live. These include a well-funded and proactive police department, strong community involvement, and various safety initiatives aimed at reducing crime and ensuring public safety.
1. Law Enforcement
The Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) plays a crucial role in maintaining safety in the city. VBPD has embraced community policing, where officers regularly engage with residents, local businesses, and neighborhood organizations to address crime proactively. The department’s focus on transparency, training, and modern technology helps keep crime rates low and public trust high.
2. Community Involvement
Virginia Beach residents are actively involved in maintaining a safe environment. Neighborhood watch programs, community events, and local safety initiatives are common across the city. Residents tend to look out for one another, creating a close-knit community atmosphere that acts as a deterrent for criminal activities.
3. Military Presence
Virginia Beach’s large military population, due to the presence of Naval Air Station Oceana and other military installations, also has an impact on the city’s safety. The military presence contributes to a strong sense of order and discipline in the community. It also means a steady flow of resources into public services, including law enforcement.
Factors That May Lead to Crime in Virginia Beach
1. Economic Well-Being
The economic well-being of a city’s residents plays a significant role in shaping its crime rates. Higher poverty levels and income inequality often contribute to increased criminal activity, as individuals may resort to illegal means to meet basic needs. However, in Virginia Beach, the poverty rate is relatively low at 7.2%, compared to the national average of 15.1%. This lower poverty rate may be a contributing factor to the city’s generally lower crime rates.
2. Population Density
Population density also influences crime trends. Densely populated urban areas, often marked by economic diversity, can exacerbate income inequality, with affluent neighborhoods existing alongside poorer ones. This economic disparity may lead to higher rates of property crimes and, in some cases, violent crimes. In contrast, areas with lower population densities tend to experience reduced crime rates.
Virginia Beach, with a population density of 1,842.4 people per square mile, is significantly higher than the national average of 90.6 people per square mile. This may be a contributing factor to some of the crime in the area.
3. Housing Costs
Housing costs are another important factor to consider when analyzing crime rates. The median home price in Virginia Beach is $287,400, compared to the national average of $184,700. High housing costs can create financial pressure for residents, and those struggling to meet their financial obligations may be more likely to turn to criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of survival.
On the other hand, stable housing communities tend to foster stronger social bonds and higher levels of community engagement. This sense of community can encourage cooperation and vigilance among residents, deterring potential criminal behavior.
Is Virginia Beach a Safe Place to Live?
So, is Virginia Beach a safe place to live? When compared to other communities with similar population sizes, Virginia Beach stands out with a crime rate that is significantly lower than the national average. This favorable statistic highlights that, among cities of comparable size across the United States, Virginia Beach is recognized as one of the safer places to live.
According to an exclusive analysis of FBI crime data, the city’s commitment to public safety, community engagement, and proactive policing strategies contribute to its lower crime figures. So when it comes to moving here, hiring professional movers in Virginia Beach can significantly enhance the experience, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition.
Our movers are committed to assisting you at every step of your residential or commercial move. To make your transition to your new home as smooth as possible, our Virginia Beach moving company provides a wide array of packing supplies, value protection services, professional moving blankets, storage options, and any other resources you might require.
