Balcones Heights, TX Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Balcones Heights, TX

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 Balcones Heights crime rate is higher than the national average by 416.2%. Specifically, there were 43 violent crimes in Balcones Heights, equivalent to 1587 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 329.2%. Furthermore, Balcones Heights recorded 282 property crimes, amounting to 10410 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 432.6%.

With a total of 11997 crimes per 100,000 people, the Balcones Heights crime rates stand at 416.18 higher than the national average. Consequently, the area grapples with one of the nation's highest total crime rates. Addressing this challenge is crucial for enhancing the safety and livability in Balcones Heights, making it a priority to reduce crime through community engagement, effective law enforcement, and collaborative efforts to secure a better future for residents and prospective residents.

Balcones Heights ranks among the most perilous cities in the United States, bearing a violent crime rate of 1587 per 100,000 people, positioning it within the lowest 10% of all U.S. cities reporting crime statistics. The odds of falling victim to violent crime in Balcones Heights stand at 1 in every 64 residents, emphasizing the pressing need for enhanced safety measures and community engagement to address this significant concern.

During the most recently reported crime year, Balcones Heights 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.

Balcones Heights faces some of the nation's most elevated property crime rates, recording 10410 incidents per 100,000 people. This places the city among the worst 10% of all U.S. cities that reported crime. Regrettably, the likelihood of falling victim to property crime in Balcones Heights stands at 1 in 10, significantly surpassing the national average. These statistics underscore the imperative need for bolstered community safety measures to mitigate property crimes and enhance the well-being of its residents.

With a total of 49 vehicle thefts last year, Balcones Heights has one of the most stolen cars in the country at 1809 per 100,000 people. This lands Balcones Heights in the bottom 10% of all cities that reported crime and the chance of any vehicle being stolen is one in 56.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Balcones Heights?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Balcones Heights residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 16 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 19% of Balcones Heights 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, 81% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Balcones Heights a Safe Place to Live?

To determine if Balcones Heights is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Balcones Heights has a total crime rate that is 416% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.89 daily crimes (0.12 violent daily crimes and 0.77 daily property crimes) in Balcones Heights.

Has Crime in Balcones Heights Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Balcones Heights. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Balcones Heights has increased by 19.1%. Violent crimes have decreased by 6.5%, while property crimes have increased by 24.2%. 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 Balcones Heights

Balcones Heights has a poverty rate that stands at 39.8, 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 Balcones Heights 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.

High population density areas are often large urban centers with diverse economic opportunities. These areas can exacerbate income inequality, with pockets of poverty existing alongside affluence. Areas with economic disparities may experience higher property crimes and, in some cases, violent crimes. On the other hand, areas with low population density tend to see lower Balcones Heights crime rates. The population density in Balcones Heights is 4779.1 people per square mile, while the national average is 90.6 people per square mile.

In Balcones Heights, the ratio of police officers and civilians stands at 7.35 per 1,000 residents, contrasting with the national average of 3.25. This discrepancy highlights the potential impact of law enforcement and community policing on crime rates. The strength of their collaboration can serve as a deterrent to criminal behavior, fostering a safer environment. Effective law enforcement leans heavily on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and cooperation between police and residents. It's essential to recognize that the effectiveness of these efforts isn't solely tied to the quantity of officers but also hinges on the quality of their engagement with the community.

Balcones Heights crime map