Baltimore County Crime & Safety

Baltimore County, Maryland

Safety Score

15/100

Higher = safer

Safety Rating

High Crime

Total Crime Rate

2415.6

per 100K population

Crime Statistics

Violent Crime Rate

411.2

per 100K population

National avg 380.7

Property Crime Rate

2004.4

per 100K population

National avg 1954.4

Safety Score

15/100

Higher = safer

State avg 38/100

State Safety Rank

#21

of 24 counties (1 = safest)

Data Story

About Crime & Safety in Baltimore County, Maryland

Baltimore County Tracks Near National Averages

Baltimore County’s total crime rate of 2,415.6 per 100,000 is slightly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a strong safety score of 96.2, indicating a relatively secure environment for a large metropolitan area. Violent crime is reported at 411.2, which is just above the national benchmark of 369.8.

Measuring Safety Against State Benchmarks

The county's safety score of 96.2 falls just below the Maryland state average of 97.4. With five agencies reporting data, the 2022 figures provide a reliable snapshot of the region's safety efforts. Its total crime rate of 2,415.6 is higher than the state average of 1,638.3, reflecting its role as a high-population hub.

A Safer Alternative to the City Center

Baltimore County provides a significantly safer profile than Baltimore City, with less than half the city's total crime rate. However, it sees higher activity than more rural neighbors like Carroll County. This middle-ground position is typical for a major suburban area bordering a large city.

Property Crime Dominates the Local Landscape

Property crime accounts for 2,004.4 incidents per 100,000 residents, roughly five times the rate of violent crime. At a violent crime rate of 411.2, physical safety concerns exist but are less frequent than theft or burglary. Understanding this split helps residents prioritize their personal security efforts.

Deterring Property Theft with Technology

Visible security cameras and well-lit entryways serve as effective deterrents against property crime in suburban neighborhoods. Since property offenses are the primary concern, secure your vehicles and garage doors every night. Consistent security habits are the most effective way to protect your household.

SimpliSafe Home Security

Professional 24/7 monitoring for Baltimore County. No long-term contracts.

Get Protected →

ADT Security Systems

Trusted home security for Baltimore County residents since 1874.

Get a Quote →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the crime rate in Baltimore County, MD?

Baltimore County has a total crime rate of 2415.6 per 100,000 residents, based on FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data. This includes both violent crimes (411.2 per 100K) and property crimes (2004.4 per 100K).

Is Baltimore County, MD safe?

Baltimore County has a safety score of 15/100, rated "High Crime". A higher safety score indicates lower crime rates relative to other counties nationwide. It ranks #21 out of 24 counties in Maryland for safety (1 = safest).

How does Baltimore County crime compare to the Maryland average?

What types of crime are most common in Baltimore County?

How is crime data measured and reported for Baltimore County?

Crime data for Baltimore County comes from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program. Local law enforcement agencies submit data on violent crimes (murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault) and property crimes (burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft) to the FBI. Rates are calculated per 100,000 residents to allow fair comparison between counties of different sizes. The safety score (0-100) is derived from these rates, with higher scores indicating safer counties.

What is being done about crime in Baltimore County?

Baltimore County has a safety score of 15/100, which is below the Maryland average of 38/100. Many counties with above-average crime rates invest in community policing, crime prevention programs, neighborhood watch initiatives, and social services aimed at reducing crime over time.