Port Arthur, TX Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Port Arthur, 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 Port Arthur crime rate is higher than the national average by 9.7%. Specifically, there were 417 violent crimes in Port Arthur, equivalent to 746 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 101.7%. Furthermore, Port Arthur recorded 1008 property crimes, amounting to 1803 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 7.7%.

When assessing the total crime rate in Port Arthur per 100,000 people, it stands in the median range among all cities with reported crime data. Our analysis of total incidents, encompassing both violent and property crimes within Port Arthur, underscores the close alignment of reported crime rates with the national average as reported by other areas.

With a violent crime rate of 746 crimes per 100,000 residents, Port Arthur is known as one of the most dangerous cities in the United States. In fact, Port Arthur ranks in the bottom 10% of all cities that reported violent crime last year. This translates into a 1 in 135 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime. Keep in mind that some areas will be safer than others and this doesn't necessarily mean that the entire city suffers from a high violent crime rate.

While murder rates in the United States have shown a consistent decline since 1990, recent years have witnessed an increase. Unfortunately, Port Arthur ranks among the cities with the highest murder rates in the nation, when compared to all reporting cities in the U.S. In Port Arthur, there were a total of 8 murders, translating to 14 murders per 100,000 residents. This alarming statistic underscores the need for heightened attention to community safety and crime prevention efforts in the area.

The property crime rate per 100,000 people in Port Arthur is very similar to the national average. Port Arthur had a property crime rate of 1803, while the national average was 1954. Based on these numbers, you could expect an average amount of property crime in this area.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Port Arthur?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Port Arthur residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 37 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 22% of Port Arthur 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, 78% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Port Arthur a Safe Place to Live?

To determine if Port Arthur 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. Port Arthur has a total crime rate that is 10% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 3.9 daily crimes (1.14 violent daily crimes and 2.76 daily property crimes) in Port Arthur.

Has Crime in Port Arthur Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Port Arthur. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Port Arthur has increased by 6.7%. Violent crimes have increased by 1.2%, while property crimes have increased by 9.2%. 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 Port Arthur

In areas where employment options are limited or where a significant proportion of jobs offer meager wages, the likelihood of heightened unemployment and homelessness increases. Regions facing challenges related to unemployment or inadequate income may become more vulnerable to a surge in crime stemming from economic instability. While low unemployment rates tend to lead to reduced crime in most areas. Port Arthur currently has an unemployment rate of 4.6%, contrasting with the national average of 4.7%. This could be one of many factors that could contribute to a higher or lower crime rate.

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 Port Arthur, the cost of living is 19.29% lower than the national average.

High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Port Arthur are $826, compared to a national average of $949 per month.

Port Arthur crime map