Biloxi, MS Crime Map

Biloxi Crime Map: Understanding Safety and Crime Rates in Biloxi, MS

Introduction to Biloxi and Its Crime Landscape

Nestled along the scenic Gulf Coast of Mississippi, Biloxi is a city of 46,042 residents known for its vibrant casino scene, historic charm, and stunning beaches. As part of the Gulfport-Biloxi metro area in Harrison County, this coastal gem has a population density of 414 people per square mile, blending small-town vibes with tourist-driven energy. But how safe is Biloxi for residents and visitors? With a city average crime score of 0.242, translating to a B+ safety grade, Biloxi offers a generally secure environment, though some areas experience higher crime rates than others. In this guide, we'll dive into Biloxi's crime statistics, safety factors, and lifestyle, while inviting you to explore our interactive Biloxi crime map for a closer look at the city's safety patterns.

Across the 40 city blocks we've analyzed, the crime grade distribution reveals a varied safety landscape. About 47.5% of the city earns an A grade, marking it as among the safest zones, while 30% falls into the B category, indicating still-safe conditions. However, 12.5% of the city scores a C for average safety, 7.5% receives a D for below-average safety, and a small 2.5% is graded F, pointing to higher crime concerns. Let's unpack what these numbers mean for anyone living in or visiting Biloxi, MS.

Understanding Crime in Biloxi

When exploring the Biloxi crime rate, it's important to look at the overall crime index, which stands at 120 compared to the national average of 100. This suggests that crime in Biloxi is slightly above the national benchmark, particularly in certain categories. Breaking it down, the violent crime index sits at approximately 108, while the property crime index is a bit higher at around 119. This indicates that property crimes like larceny/theft, burglary, and vehicle theft are more prevalent concerns than violent offenses, though assault rates also exceed national averages.

Safety levels in Biloxi vary significantly depending on where you are in the city. Some parts boast exceptionally low crime rates, offering peaceful environments for families and retirees, while others face more frequent incidents that require heightened awareness. Compared to other cities along the Gulf Coast or within Mississippi, Biloxi's crime profile reflects its unique mix of tourist activity and residential life, where economic disparities and high visitor traffic can influence crime trends. For a detailed breakdown of safety across different zones, our interactive Biloxi crime map provides a block-by-block view to help you assess risks and make informed decisions.

Factors Affecting Safety in Biloxi

Economic Conditions and Crime

Economic factors play a significant role in shaping safety across Biloxi. With a median household income of $48,999, the city falls below the national average, and about 17.1% of residents live below the poverty line. Additionally, an unemployment rate of 9% and a labor force participation rate of 67% suggest economic challenges for a portion of the population. These conditions can contribute to property crime rates, as financial stress sometimes correlates with incidents like theft and burglary, which are notably above national averages in Biloxi.

Population Density and Urban Dynamics

Biloxi's population density of 414 people per square mile reflects a moderately compact urban layout, with bustling areas driven by tourism and quieter residential zones. Higher-density spots, often tied to commercial or entertainment hubs, can experience more frequent crime due to increased foot traffic and opportunities for theft or other incidents. In contrast, less crowded parts of the city tend to report lower crime rates, offering a safer day-to-day experience. Understanding these patterns is key to navigating safety in Biloxi, and our crime map tool helps visualize these differences.

Historical and Cultural Context

Biloxi's history as a coastal resort town and its modern identity as a gaming destination shape its social and safety dynamics. Once a quiet fishing village, the city transformed with the arrival of casinos in the 1990s, bringing an influx of visitors and economic activity. This shift has created a dual reality: a thriving tourist economy alongside pockets of economic struggle for some longtime residents. The transient nature of tourism can sometimes lead to spikes in property crimes, while community efforts to preserve Biloxi's cultural heritage—think seafood festivals and historic sites—foster a sense of pride that often deters crime in more tight-knit areas.

Living in Biloxi: Lifestyle and Demographics

For those considering a move to Biloxi or just curious about life here, the city offers a unique blend of affordability and coastal allure. The cost of living index stands at 90, below the national average of 100, making it a relatively budget-friendly place to settle. Housing costs, with a median home value of $165,715 and median rent of $865 per month, are also reasonable, though 29% of income going to rent indicates some burden for renters. Only 44% of residents own their homes, reflecting a strong rental market influenced by transient populations and military families tied to nearby bases.

Biloxi's demographic makeup adds to its diverse character. With a median age of 35, the city attracts a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees. The average family size is 3.1, and 46% of households are married, pointing to a family-friendly vibe in many areas. About 27% of residents hold a college degree, and with 14.7% being veterans, there's a notable military presence that shapes community values. The average commute time of 21 minutes also makes Biloxi an accessible place for workers in the metro area.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

Biloxi's climate is quintessentially Southern, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Average temperatures range from 59°F to 77°F, with July highs reaching 90°F and January lows dipping to 43°F. Rainfall is abundant at 66 inches annually, while snowfall is negligible at just 1 inch. However, living on the Gulf Coast comes with environmental risks. Biloxi faces above-average threats from natural disasters, with tornado risk at 175, hurricane risk at a striking 359, and hail risk at 130 (compared to a national average of 100). These factors don't directly impact crime rates but are worth considering for overall safety planning, as storm-related disruptions can sometimes lead to temporary spikes in property crimes during recovery periods.

Using Our Interactive Biloxi Crime Map

Curious about where Biloxi's safest and riskiest areas lie? Our interactive Biloxi crime map is your go-to resource for understanding the city's safety landscape. This tool breaks down crime data across the 40 analyzed blocks, assigning safety grades from A (safest) to F (highest crime) based on recent statistics. You'll see at a glance that nearly half the city earns top marks for safety, while a small fraction raises more concern due to elevated crime rates. The map highlights patterns of violent and property crimes, helping you identify trends without overwhelming you with raw numbers.

Interpreting the crime grades is simple: an A or B grade suggests a low risk of becoming a victim, ideal for families or those prioritizing safety. C grades indicate average risk, while D and F grades signal areas where extra caution is advised. Whether you're house-hunting, planning a visit, or just curious about Biloxi MS crime, our map lets you zoom in on specific zones for a tailored view. Take a moment to explore it now and see how safety varies across this coastal city.

Safety Tips for Residents and Visitors in Biloxi

Given Biloxi's crime statistics, a few practical safety tips can go a long way. Since property crimes like larceny/theft, burglary, and vehicle theft are more common than national averages, always secure your belongings, especially in high-traffic or tourist-heavy zones. Lock car doors, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, and invest in sturdy home security if you're a resident. For violent crimes like assault, which also exceed national benchmarks, stay aware of your surroundings, particularly at night or in less crowded areas.

General awareness is key in a city with Biloxi's mix of locals and visitors. Stick to well-lit, populated areas when possible, and trust your instincts if something feels off. For tourists enjoying the city's entertainment offerings, keep personal items close and avoid overindulging in ways that could make you a target. By staying proactive and informed—especially with tools like our Biloxi crime map—you can enjoy all that Biloxi has to offer with greater peace of mind.

Conclusion: Navigating Safety with the Biloxi Crime Map

Biloxi, MS, offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty, cultural history, and affordable living, but like any city, it has a varied safety profile. With an overall crime index of 120 and a city average crime score of 0.242 (B+ grade), Biloxi is generally safe, though property crimes such as theft and burglary, along with some violent offenses, are above national averages. Safety ranges widely across the city, with 47.5% earning the highest safety marks and a small 2.5% facing more significant challenges. Economic factors, tourism, and environmental risks like hurricanes all shape the Biloxi crime rate and safety landscape.

Whether you're asking, "Is Biloxi safe?" or seeking detailed Biloxi crime statistics, our interactive Biloxi crime map is the best way to get a clear, block-by-block picture of crime in Biloxi. Explore it today to understand where risks are higher or lower, and use this knowledge alongside our safety tips to make informed choices. From residents to visitors, knowing the ins and outs of crime in Biloxi, MS, empowers you to live or travel with confidence in this Gulf Coast treasure.