Suffolk city Crime & Safety

Suffolk city, Virginia

Safety Score

15/100

Higher = safer

Safety Rating

High Crime

Total Crime Rate

2374.1

per 100K population

Crime Statistics

Violent Crime Rate

494.4

per 100K population

National avg 380.7

Property Crime Rate

1879.7

per 100K population

National avg 1954.4

Safety Score

15/100

Higher = safer

State avg 39/100

State Safety Rank

#105

of 131 counties (1 = safest)

Data Story

About Crime & Safety in Suffolk city, Virginia

Suffolk city mirrors national crime trends

Suffolk city reports a total crime rate of 2,374.1 per 100,000, placing it very close to the national average of 2,385.5. The city earns a safety score of 96.3. As an independent city with a single reporting agency, its data reflects the complexities of a growing urban-suburban mix.

Suffolk's standing in the Commonwealth

With a safety score of 96.3, Suffolk falls slightly below the Virginia average of 97.3. Its total crime rate of 2,374.1 is higher than the state average of 1,728.8. However, it remains a safer alternative to many other major metropolitan centers in the Tidewater region.

Regional comparisons in Tidewater

Suffolk's crime rate is significantly higher than rural Southampton County, which sits at 1,244.2. This is common for a city that serves as a regional commercial hub with a much higher population density. Local residents experience a different safety landscape than those in the surrounding rural counties.

Analyzing violent and property crime

Suffolk's violent crime rate of 494.4 is higher than the national average of 369.8. Conversely, its property crime rate of 1,879.7 is lower than the national average of 2,015.7. This indicates that while property is relatively safe, personal safety requires more localized awareness.

Enhanced security for Suffolk residents

Given that violent crime rates are above the national average, residents should prioritize comprehensive home security. Using alarm systems and participating in community watch programs can help reduce risks. Awareness of your surroundings and securing your property are the best defenses in an urban environment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the crime rate in Suffolk city, VA?

Suffolk city has a total crime rate of 2374.1 per 100,000 residents, based on FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data. This includes both violent crimes (494.4 per 100K) and property crimes (1879.7 per 100K).

Is Suffolk city, VA safe?

Suffolk city 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 #105 out of 131 counties in Virginia for safety (1 = safest).

How does Suffolk city crime compare to the Virginia average?

What types of crime are most common in Suffolk city?

How is crime data measured and reported for Suffolk city?

Crime data for Suffolk city 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 Suffolk city?

Suffolk city has a safety score of 15/100, which is below the Virginia average of 39/100. 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.