| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Hillsborough/100k people | North Carolina/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 480 | n/a (estimate) | 4,904 | 2,344 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 2 | n/a | 20.4 | 7.5 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 2 | n/a | 20.4 | 28.0 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 5 | n/a | 51.1 | 50.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 28 | n/a | 286.1 | 290.1 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 37 | n/a (estimate) | 378 | 376 | 359 |
| Burglary | 22 | n/a | 224.8 | 323.9 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 395 | n/a | 4,035.6 | 1,390.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 26 | n/a | 265.6 | 254.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 443 | n/a (estimate) | 4,526 | 1,968 | 1,760 |
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 Hillsborough crime rate is higher than the national average by 131.4%. Specifically, there were 37 violent crimes in Hillsborough, equivalent to 378 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 5.3%. Furthermore, Hillsborough recorded 443 property crimes, amounting to 4526 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 157.1%.
With a total of 4904 crimes per 100,000 people, the Hillsborough crime rates stand at 131.41 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 Hillsborough, 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.
For violent crimes per 100,000 people, Hillsborough has a rate of violent crime that is very close to the national average. There were a total of 378 violent crimes, while the national average reported 359. This is an indication that the level of crime is essentially on par with all other cities.
Although the murder rates in America have decreased steadily since 1990, over the last few years there has been an uptick. Hillsborough has one of the highest murder rates in the country when compared to all other cities that reported crime in the U.S. There were a total of 2 murders in Hillsborough, which is 20 murders per 100,000 people.
Every year, one in 23 people fall victim to a property crime in Hillsborough - which is high compared to the national average. With a property crime rate of 4526 per 100,000 people, Hillsborough has one of the highest property crime rates in the country. In fact, the city ranks among the worst 10% of all cities that reported crime last year.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Hillsborough residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 21 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 67% of Hillsborough 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, 33% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Hillsborough a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Hillsborough crime rate is 131% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 1.32 crimes per day - 0.1 violent crimes and 1.21 property crimes.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Hillsborough. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Hillsborough has increased by 34.5%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 2.6%, while property crime has increased by 38.9%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Hillsborough.
Limited employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-wage jobs can result in higher rates of unemployment and underemployment. Regions where individuals grapple with joblessness or meager wages may exhibit greater vulnerability to an uptick in crime due to financial instability. While areas that have strong employment rates, often will see a reduction in overall crime. Hillsborough, for instance, reports an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which differs from the national average of 4.9%.
Hillsborough has a population density of 1317.8 people per square mile, while with the national average is 90.6 people per square mile. Cities characterized by high population density are frequently larger urban centers offering diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality may be accentuated, resulting in the coexistence of poverty and affluence. Such economic disparities can contribute to elevated property crimes and on occasion, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density generally record lower Hillsborough crime rates.
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 Hillsborough stands at $540,337, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
| Item | Hillsborough | North Carolina | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 26 | 14,511 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 4.2 | 4.8 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | North Carolina /100K | National /100K |
| North Carolina | 26,293 | 320 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Swepsonville, NC | 2,318 | 108 | 567 | 675 |
| Saxapahaw, NC | 1,390 | 150 | 784 | 934 |
| Woodlawn, NC | 870 | 186 | 973 | 1,159 |
| Green Level, NC | 2,613 | 206 | 1,079 | 1,286 |
| Carrboro, NC | 22,056 | 181 | 1,929 | 2,110 |
| Efland, NC | 823 | 364 | 1,904 | 2,268 |
| Chapel Hill, NC | 64,145 | 172 | 2,515 | 2,687 |
| Hillsborough, NC | 7,376 | 378 | 4,526 | 4,904 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Twin Rivers, NJ | 7,376 | 210 | 1,374 | 1,584 |
| Lexington, VA | 7,377 | 131 | 457 | 588 |
| Lecanto, FL | 7,379 | 240 | 1,278 | 1,518 |
| Philadelphia, MS | 7,379 | 524 | 2,490 | 3,014 |
| Elsa, TX | 7,379 | 298 | 3,016 | 3,315 |
| Hillsborough, NC | 7,376 | 378 | 4,526 | 4,904 |
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