Colonial Beach, VA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Colonial Beach, VA

The Colonial Beach crime rates are 30.8% lower than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 15 violent crimes in Colonial Beach (377 per 100,000 people), which is 1.9% higher than the national average and there were a total of 49 property crimes (1231 per 100,000 residents) which is 37% lower than average.

When it comes to violent crimes per 100,000 people, Colonial Beach maintains a rate that is very similar to the national average. With 377 reported violent crimes, it falls in line with the national average of 370. This alignment suggests that Colonial Beach shares a similar crime profile with other cities, highlighting its comparable level of safety within the broader urban landscape.

In the latest reported crime year, Colonial Beach recorded zero homicides. This statistic potentially positions the city as a paragon of security, radiating a profound sense of safety for its residents. A low number of severe violent crimes instills a deep feeling of well-being among its community but also establishes a lofty benchmark for other locales aspiring to foster equally secure environments.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Colonial Beach?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Colonial Beach residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 7 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 57% of Colonial Beach 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, 43% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Colonial Beach a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in Colonial Beach, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Colonial Beach presents a total crime rate that is 31% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Colonial Beach experiences an average of 0.18 daily crimes, comprising 0.04 violent incidents and 0.13 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 Colonial Beach Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime rates in Colonial Beach has increased by 36.2% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Colonial Beach is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. Crime rates are categorized by violent and property crime. Year-over-year violent crime has increased by 150%, while property crime has increased by 19.5%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Colonial Beach.

Potential Causes for Crime in Colonial Beach

Rising cost of living expenses, including increased housing costs, grocery, utility and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards crime, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In Colonial Beach, the cost of living is 16.72% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.

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 Colonial Beach, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 4.43, 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.

The median home price in Colonial Beach is $214,000, compared to the national average of $184,700. High housing costs can lead to financial stress for residents. When individuals struggle to make ends meet due to expensive housing, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities to address their financial difficulties, such as theft or fraud. Communities with stable housing environments tend to foster stronger social bonds and community engagement. This can lead to increased vigilance and cooperation among residents, which can deter criminal behavior.

Colonial Beach crime map