| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Virginia Beach/100k people | Virginia/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 7,884 | n/a (estimate) | 1,732 | 1,788 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 13 | n/a | 2.9 | 4.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 84 | n/a | 18.5 | 27.8 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 144 | n/a | 31.6 | 33.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 179 | n/a | 39.3 | 152.2 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 420 | n/a (estimate) | 92 | 218 | 359 |
| Burglary | 382 | n/a | 83.9 | 108.7 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 6,585 | n/a | 1,446.8 | 1,315.9 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 497 | n/a | 109.2 | 145.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 7,464 | n/a (estimate) | 1,640 | 1,570 | 1,760 |
Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Virginia Beach is 18.3% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Virginia Beach, there were 420 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 92 per 100,000 individuals, 74.3% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 7464 property crimes, amounting to 1640 per 100,000 residents, 6.8% lower than the U.S. average.
Virginia Beach has one of the lowest violent crime rates of all cities in the United States. With a rate of 92 violent crimes per 100,000 people, Virginia Beach ranks among the safest cities in the United States making it an attractive choice for those seeking a new place to call home.
In the most recent release, Virginia Beach reported a property crime rate that closely aligns with the national average. In Virginia Beach, there were 1640 reported property crimes, a figure consistent with the national average of 1760 per 100,000 individuals. This positions the area as maintaining a level of safety and security on par with the typical city. The harmonious statistics underscore a balanced commitment to community well-being, offering residents a sense of stability and peace in their surroundings.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Virginia Beach residents. Out of the respondents (125 in total), 67% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Virginia Beach were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 33% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach crime rate is 18% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 21.6 crimes per day - 1.15 violent crimes and 20.45 property crimes.
In the most recent crime report, year-over-year crime rates in Virginia Beach has increased by 3.7%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Virginia Beach, aiding residents in assessing whether it is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. These crime rates are categorized into two primary groups: violent and property crimes. Year-over-year, violent crime has decreased by 17.2%, while property crime has increased by 5.2%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about whether or not Virginia Beach is a safe place to live.
Virginia Beach has a poverty rate of 7.2, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.
In areas where housing affordability is an issue, crime can become a significant concern. Some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions, which can increase stress and potentially contribute to domestic disputes and related crimes. The median home price in Virginia Beach is $507,045, compared to a national average of $326,622.
In Virginia Beach, the average rental rates are $2,070 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. Rapid increases in rental costs can lead to neighborhood instability as residents are forced to move frequently in search of more affordable housing. This transience can weaken community bonds and hinder the establishment of social support networks, which can indirectly contribute to crime. While affordable rent and areas with higher income per capita, allow for long term renters and community bonds to the formed, therefore reducing crime rates on the long term.
| Item | Virginia Beach | Virginia | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 955 | 8,827 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.1 | 3.2 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Virginia /100K | National /100K |
| Virginia | 25,766 | 352 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Virginia Beach, VA | 463,341 | 92 | 1,640 | 1,732 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Miami, FL | 470,437 | 473 | 2,995 | 3,468 |
| Long Beach, CA | 480,084 | 676 | 3,479 | 4,155 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | 481,855 | 716 | 3,449 | 4,164 |
| Raleigh, NC | 482,278 | 489 | 2,819 | 3,308 |
| Minneapolis, MN | 439,880 | 1,160 | 5,143 | 6,303 |
| Virginia Beach, VA | 463,341 | 92 | 1,640 | 1,732 |
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