Boston is an internationally renowned city, famous for its historical significance, gorgeous architecture, and network of elite universities. But like many cities around the world, it experiences a fairly high amount of crime.
Most crime in Boston is usually petty, with very few serious crimes. Yet understanding how safe a city is is essential for anyone thinking of relocating.
What is the crime rate in Boston?
Looking at the crime rate is the best way to understand how dangerous a city is. Crime rates are usually measured on a per capita basis, so the rates are adjusted for the population.
The various crime reports fall mainly into two categories:
- Violent Crimes
- Property Crimes
Level of Violence in Boston
Boston is safer that 19% of U.S. cities, with about 26 crimes occurring per 1,000 people. Residents of Boston have a 1 in 151 chance of being the victim of a violent crime, compared to the Massachusetts level of 1 in 305. Boston’s violent crimes are extremely underreported, so there is very little data on the number of serious crimes that occur in the city.
Boston property crime rate
Property crime is more common in Boston. If you’re a resident of this city, you have a 1 in 51 chance of being the victim of a property crime. That’s slightly higher than the Massachusetts rate of 1 in 85. Per 1,000 residents, 19.58 are the victim of property crimes, compared to the 11.8 rate in the state of Massachusetts.
How do I stay safe while living in Boston?
- Install a home security system
- Always lock your doors
- Keep windows closed, especially when you’re not in your home
- Consider improving outdoor lighting
- Choose a lower-crime neighborhood
Safety Tips for Anyone in Boston
- Don’t drive on dark streets
- Stick to a group
- Lock the doors where you are staying
- Avoid telling people where you’re staying
Crime is an inevitable part of living in a city. Boston’s police department does an excellent job responding to crises. Boston also has a variety of neighborhoods, each with their own specific crime rates.
