Morgantown, WV Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Morgantown, WV

Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Morgantown is 17.4% higher than the national average. Specifically, there were 84 violent crimes reported in Morgantown, equivalent to 287 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 22.4%. Additionally, Morgantown recorded 715 property crimes, amounting to 2442 per 100,000 people, higher than the national average by 25%.

While murder rates in the United States have generally declined since 1990, recent years have seen an unfortunate uptick. Morgantown stands out with one of the nation's highest murder rates among cities reporting crime data. In Morgantown, a total of 6 murders were reported, equating to 20 murders per 100,000 residents. This statistic underscores the challenges facing the area in terms of severe violent crime and the importance of ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security within the community.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Morgantown?

AreaVibes surveyed 31 local residents in Morgantown to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 65% of people answered that there was very little crime in Morgantown and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 35% 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 Morgantown a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Morgantown is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Morgantown has an overall crime rate that is 17% higher than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 2.19 daily occurrences, comprising 0.23 violent crimes and 1.96 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Morgantown as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Morgantown Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime rates in Morgantown has decreased by 4.3% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Morgantown 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 decreased by 5.6%, while property crime has decreased by 4.2%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Morgantown.

Potential Causes for Crime in Morgantown

The educational level achieved in any given city can influence crime rates significantly. Greater educational achievement is frequently associated with decreased crime rates, as it offers individuals improved job prospects and alternatives to engaging in crime related activities. Conversely, lower educational attainment rates tend to coincide with elevated crime rates. In Morgantown, 87.5% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, in contrast to the national average where 83% have achieved high school graduation.

High cost of living can lead to economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When people struggle to make ends meet due to high housing costs, healthcare expenses, or other basic necessities, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. On the flipside, cities that have a lower cost of living, could see a reduced crime rate. In Morgantown, the cost of living is 6.1% lower than the national average.

The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Morgantown stands at $215,000, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

Morgantown crime map