Brawley, CA

City Crime Score

Below avg crime

B-

Population

30,185

Median Income

$56,687

Home Value

$289,068

Median Age

32.0

Crime Statistics

Assault
125
Robbery
129
Burglary
117
Larceny/Theft
132
Vehicle Theft
144

Demographics

White: 47.2%
Black: 1.9%
Hispanic: 84.0%
Asian: 1.7%

12.1% have a bachelor's degree or higher

Housing

Owners: 55.3%
Renters: 44.7%
Crime Level
Low High
Brawley Neighborhoods & Data

Brawley, CA Crime Map

Explore crime rates, safest neighborhoods, and detailed crime statistics

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About Brawley

Brawley, CA

City Crime Score

Below average crime

B-

Population

30,185

Median Income

$56,687

Median Home Value

$289,068

Median Age

32.0

Crime Statistics

Assault
125
Robbery
129
Burglary
117
Larceny/Theft
132
Vehicle Theft
144

Demographics

White: 47.2%
Black: 1.9%
Hispanic: 84.0%
Asian: 1.7%

12.1% have a bachelor's degree or higher

Housing

Owners: 55.3%
Renters: 44.7%

Brawley, CA Crime Overview

Brawley, California — a city of 25,942 residents in Imperial County — carries an overall crime grade of D+, a rating that reflects real pressure on public safety across many of its neighborhoods. With a poverty rate of 31.4% and unemployment sitting at 22.5%, the economic conditions here are among the most strained in Southern California, and those factors correlate directly with the crime patterns visible on the interactive map. Understanding where risk is concentrated, and where it is lower, is the starting point for anyone living in or relocating to Brawley.

What the Data Actually Shows

The city data available for Brawley does not break down crime grades at the individual neighborhood level, so drawing precise comparisons between specific districts would require inventing figures this page will not provide. What the citywide D+ grade does tell us is that Brawley falls in the lower tier of California cities by safety metrics — meaning a majority of its residential areas experience crime rates that exceed national medians. The combination of a median household income of $46,177, a median home value of $211,062, and a median rent of just $840 paints a picture of a community where economic stress is widespread and its downstream effects on crime are measurable.

Property Crime vs. Violent Crime in Brawley

In cities with economic profiles similar to Brawley's — high unemployment, elevated poverty, modest incomes — property crime typically outpaces violent crime in raw incident volume. Theft, vehicle break-ins, and burglary tend to cluster around commercial corridors and higher-density residential pockets, particularly in areas where population density reaches or exceeds Brawley's citywide average of 1,233 residents per square mile. Violent crime, while less frequent in absolute terms, is not evenly distributed; it tends to concentrate in areas where transient foot traffic and economic displacement intersect. Both crime categories are trackable on the Brawley crime map, allowing users to filter by type and time period rather than relying on generalized impressions.

How the Interactive Crime Map Works for Brawley Residents

The crime map is a practical decision-making tool, not just a data visualization. For home buyers evaluating properties near the $211,062 median home value, overlaying recent incident data onto a specific block or street provides context that a listing price alone cannot. Renters comparing units at or near the $840 median rent can assess whether a lower-cost address comes with elevated exposure to property crime. Commuters who travel through Brawley during early morning or late evening hours can use time-filtered map views to understand when and where incidents are most likely to occur along their routes. The map's heat-layer function is particularly useful for identifying concentrated hotspots versus isolated incidents, a distinction that matters when evaluating long-term safety rather than reacting to a single event.

Putting Brawley's Grade in Context

A D+ grade is a signal worth taking seriously, but it is not a verdict on every part of the city. Aggregate grades mask the variation that exists between neighborhoods, and Brawley is no exception. The goal of this crime map is to move residents and visitors past the single-letter summary and into the specific, address-level data that supports smarter choices. Checking the map regularly, cross-referencing it with updates from the Brawley Police Department, and staying engaged with local neighborhood watch efforts are the most direct ways to translate data awareness into personal safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brawley safe?

Brawley, California, is generally considered a safe community for residents and visitors, especially when compared to broader urban areas. Like many cities, it experiences some crime, but the overall crime rate is manageable, and most neighborhoods are safe for families and individuals. The Brawley crime map indicates that incidents tend to be concentrated in certain areas, but typical patrols and community policing efforts help maintain safety. As with any city, exercising common sense—such as securing valuables and staying aware of your surroundings—can enhance personal safety. Overall, Brawley's small-town atmosphere contributes to a welcoming environment with a focus on community well-being.

What is the crime rate in Brawley?

The crime rate in Brawley reflects its demographic and economic profile, with moderate levels of property and violent crimes. As a city with a population of around 25,900 residents, it experiences crime typical of small to mid-sized communities—mostly related to property offenses like theft and vandalism, along with occasional violent incidents. The Brawley crime map provides a visual overview of where these crimes tend to occur, helping residents stay informed. Despite economic challenges—such as a higher unemployment rate of 22.5% and a poverty rate of 31.4%—the city continues to work towards improving safety and community engagement to reduce crime levels over time.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Brawley?

While specific neighborhood crime data is not readily available for Brawley, some areas are generally regarded as more desirable and safer based on community reputation and local knowledge. Neighborhoods near the downtown area, close to schools, parks, and community centers, tend to have lower reported incidents and a stronger sense of community safety. Suburban areas like West Brawley and parts of North Brawley are often noted for their family-friendly environment and quieter streets. For detailed safety information, residents and visitors can consult the Brawley crime map regularly, which helps identify safer zones and plan accordingly for security and peace of mind.

Is Brawley a good place to live?

Brawley offers a unique small-town lifestyle with affordable housing, evident in its median home value of around $211,062, making it attractive for families and individuals seeking budget-friendly living options. The city's population of approximately 25,942 fosters a close-knit community atmosphere. However, economic challenges, such as a relatively high unemployment rate of 22.5% and poverty rate of 31.4%, can impact quality of life for some residents. Despite these issues, Brawley boasts access to local amenities, outdoor activities, and a central location in Imperial County. Its diverse demographic and resilient community make it a viable option for those seeking a quieter, affordable place to settle, especially if they are aware of and prepared for the economic and safety considerations.