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Welcome to Charlotte, North Carolina—a city pulsating with cultural richness, artistic flair, and sports vibrancy. But amidst its energy, Charlotte grapples with urban challenges, and crime, like in any bustling metropolis, is one of them.
Data from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department shows that while overall crime rates have seen a recent dip in the area, they still shadow over the national average.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how crime in Charlotte compares to other cities and give you a list of the safest places to stay.
Here’s what you need to know:
Rate of Property Crime in Charlotte
In Charlotte, property crimes, including burglary and vehicle theft, are above the national average, registering 32.12 cases per 1,000 residents. The city noted an uptick in cases from 15,475 in 2022 to 17,873, ranking it at 53.6 in the crime indices range in 2023.
Although daunting, especially compared to figures from New York and the U.S. (24.9 and 35.4, respectively), these stats are not being ignored. City authorities are on their toes, enhancing preventive measures and nurturing community bonds.
The focus? To ensure that Charlotte becomes safer and friendlier for everyone who calls it or might call it home.
Rate of violent crime in Charlotte
Turning attention to violent crime—which covers major offenses such as homicide, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault—we find that Charlotte shows a figure of roughly 4.5 occurrences per 1,000 residents.
This promising downward trend is good news for Charlotte regarding violent crimes, which decreased from 3,689 offenses in 2022 to 3,406 in 2023. However, the city’s crime index of 34.3 is still higher than New York’s 28.2 and the national average of 22.7.
While bearing in mind that the crime index scale ranges from 1 (low crime) to 100 (high crime), Charlotte’s rating reflects its room for improvement.
Homicide rate in Charlotte
In a promising turn of events, Charlotte’s homicide rate dropped from 53 in 2022 to 45 in 2023, with 27 of those unfortunate incidents involving firearms. Meanwhile, overall gun-related crime victims saw a slight decrease of around 4%, bringing the number to 2,359 so far in 2023.
A testament to the city’s commitment towards a safer future, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department confiscated over 800 guns in the first quarter of 2023 alone. The continued efforts in making the streets safer and lowering these tragic figures is a priority, making every effort to ensure that every resident of Charlotte can live a life free of fear.
Rate of traffic fatalities in Charlotte
In Charlotte, traffic fatalities average 75 deaths yearly, while pedestrians and cyclists face their share of risks. Between 2018 and 2022, the city saw a noticeable decline of 55% in severe injuries or fatalities involving pedestrians and bicyclists, with 47 cases in 2018 dropping to 30 in 2020. Remarkably, about 1,900 individuals walked away from such incidents in 2020 with either minor or no injuries.
Compared to the US national averages, Charlotte fares better, as the country records approximately 6,000 pedestrian and 850 cyclist deaths annually. Among major American cities, Los Angeles experiences the highest number of pedestrian fatalities at 116, followed by New York (90), Houston (76), and Phoenix (73).
Safest Neighborhoods in Charlotte
- South Park
- Ballantyne West
- Davidson, NC
- Tega Cay, SC
1. South Park
- Median Home Price: $698,170 (Zillow)
- Perfect for: Families, young professionals, and those seeking a relaxed retirement.
Just a stone’s throw from Uptown Charlotte lies the stylish and convenient neighborhood of South Park. Its stately homes and thoughtfully landscaped streets give the area a refined feel that residents love. Convenience is key here, with South Park Mall offering many trendy shops and dining options.
The neighborhood’s excellent schools and proximity to numerous parks make it ideal for families, while its prosperous job market attracts professionals. South Park offers a bustling community with gourmet restaurants, high-end stores, and various recreational options.
2. Ballantyne West
- Median home price: $410,128 (Zillow)
- Perfect for: Young urbanites, family units, and retirees.
On the fringes of exciting Charlotte is where you’ll find Ballantyne West, an inviting neighborhood that prides itself on its friendly atmosphere and a homey feel. This area is a hit, especially among those who value the tight-knit community essence and a safe environment. Nestled within its cozy residential areas, bustling shops, and expansive recreational spaces, residents find themselves part of an engaged and inclusive community.
Take a swing at the local golf courses, pamper yourself at the spa, or engage in some retail therapy around this captivating neighborhood. With its comfortable level of urban amenities and residential tranquility, Ballantyne West is fitting for young professionals, growing families, and retirees looking for a relaxed pace of life.
3. Davidson
- Median Home Price: $573,715 (Zillow)
- Who’d Love It: Families, young professionals, and folks looking to retire.
Only a short drive north of bustling Charlotte, you’ll find the charming town of Davidson. With tree-canopied streets, cute local shops, and acres of parkland, it’s a picture of small-town perfection. Add in some top-notch schools (Davidson College, anyone?), and you’ve got a great place for families.
The lively main strip, full of eateries and unique stores, keeps things exciting. Whether you’re raising a family, starting a career, or enjoying retirement, Davidson is a gem.
4. Tega Cay
- Median Home Price: $555,757 (Zillow)
- Ideal For: Families, nature-buffs, retirees.
Along the banks of Lake Wylie, the beautiful Tega Cay provides a serene escape from city life. Here, homes have stunning water views, and the outdoors is a way of life. With parks aplenty, long walking trails, and water sports facilities, there’s always something to do. Add the Tega Cay Golf Club’s fantastic 27-hole course into the mix, and the appeal skyrockets.
The schools here are top-tier, and the safe vibe is perfect for families. So, if you’re a family, outdoor lover, or retiree looking for an active lifestyle, Tega Cay is your dream.
Bellhop — Your Reliable Moving Partner in Charlotte
Sure, Charlotte has the hustle and bustle of a major city, but it doesn’t carry the overwhelming size of places like New York or Los Angeles. It’s a healthy balance that makes Charlotte an inviting and secure destination to settle down. If you’re getting ready to pack up and make Charlotte your home, Bellhop is on hand to relieve your move’s stress.
Your Stress-Free Move in Charlotte Starts with Bellhop
Whether you’re migrating within the city limits or moving to Charlotte from across the country, Bellhop is right here to simplify it all:
- Moving in Charlotte: Don’t stress over the logistics. Just focus on settling into your new neighborhood. We’ve got the rest.
- Long-Distance Charlotte Moves: No matter from which end of the country you’re coming, we’ll whisk you over to Charlotte without a hitch.
- Last-Minute Moves in Charlotte: Need to move right now? We’re ready to step in and speed up the process.
Sit back, relax, and let us handle your move. If you’re headed to Charlotte, think Bellhop for a smooth transition!
Ready to move? Dial us up, and let’s kick-start your hassle-free move!
Other Charlotte Guides
- Best Neighborhoods for Families in Gastonia - October 16, 2023
- Best Neighborhoods for Families in Concord - September 28, 2023
- Best Neighborhoods for Families in Rock Hill - September 28, 2023
