Union County Crime & Safety

Union County, North Carolina

Safety Score

34/100

Higher = safer

Safety Rating

High Crime

Total Crime Rate

1541.0

per 100K population

Crime Statistics

Violent Crime Rate

203.7

per 100K population

National avg 380.7

Property Crime Rate

1337.3

per 100K population

National avg 1954.4

Safety Score

34/100

Higher = safer

State avg 32/100

State Safety Rank

#39

of 100 counties (1 = safest)

Data Story

About Crime & Safety in Union County, North Carolina

Union County Ranks Among the Nation's Safest

Union County boasts an impressive safety score of 97.6, reflecting its status as a secure community. The total crime rate of 1,541.0 per 100,000 residents is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These metrics highlight the county's success in maintaining public order and safety.

Exceeding North Carolina Safety Standards

The county's safety score of 97.6 outperforms the North Carolina average of 96.8. With a total crime rate of 1,541.0, Union County is much safer than the state average of 2,050.0. Five different reporting agencies coordinate to maintain these high safety standards for local families.

A Safety Leader in the Region

Union County is notably safer than several larger neighbors in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Its crime rate of 1,541.0 compares favorably to the state average and nearby high-traffic corridors. This makes the county a preferred destination for those seeking a balance of suburban growth and low crime.

Strong Protection Against Violent Crime

Union County sees a remarkably low violent crime rate of 203.7, which is far below the national average of 369.8. Property crime also remains low at 1,337.3 compared to the national figure of 2,015.7. Residents here enjoy levels of security that are much better than national norms in both major categories.

Maintaining Safety Through Awareness

Low crime rates offer a sense of security, but proactive home protection remains a smart investment. Simple steps like installing deadbolts and keeping property well-lit deter potential opportunistic theft. Engaging with local law enforcement through neighborhood programs ensures the community remains one of the state's safest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the crime rate in Union County, NC?

Union County has a total crime rate of 1541.0 per 100,000 residents, based on FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data. This includes both violent crimes (203.7 per 100K) and property crimes (1337.3 per 100K).

Is Union County, NC safe?

Union County has a safety score of 34/100, rated "High Crime". A higher safety score indicates lower crime rates relative to other counties nationwide. It ranks #39 out of 100 counties in North Carolina for safety (1 = safest).

How does Union County crime compare to the North Carolina average?

What types of crime are most common in Union County?

How is crime data measured and reported for Union County?

Crime data for Union 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.

Why is Union County safer than the North Carolina average?

Union County has a safety score of 34/100, which is above the North Carolina average of 32/100. Factors such as local law enforcement effectiveness, community programs, socioeconomic conditions, and population density all contribute to lower crime rates in certain counties.