Cambridge, MA Crime Map

Navigating the safety of any city starts with the right tools, and our detailed Cambridge crime map offers an in-depth look at crime distribution across this vibrant Massachusetts hub. With an average crime score of 0.304, Cambridge earns an above-average safety grade of B, reflecting a generally secure environment for its 117,822 residents. Notably, 67% of the 15 analyzed neighborhoods score a B or higher, showcasing a strong foundation of safety in much of the city. Whether you're a student near Harvard, a professional in a bustling tech area, or a family seeking a welcoming community, understanding the Cambridge crime rate and neighborhood-specific data is essential. This guide, powered by comprehensive statistics, breaks down the safest areas, identifies zones needing caution, and equips you with actionable insights to explore Cambridge with confidence.

Understanding Cambridge's Safety Landscape

Cambridge, located in Middlesex County with a population density of 7,115 per square mile, is a dynamic city known for its academic prestige and innovation hubs like Harvard University and MIT. However, like any urban area, safety varies across its neighborhoods. The Cambridge crime map provides a clear visual of crime distribution, helping residents and visitors make informed decisions about where to live, work, or explore. With a median household income of $107,490 and 79% of residents holding a college degree, Cambridge is a highly educated and relatively affluent community, factors often correlated with lower crime rates. Yet, understanding local crime trends remains crucial. For broader context on national crime statistics, the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program offers valuable data to compare Cambridge with other cities across the U.S.

The city's overall crime grade of B is derived from analyzing 15 distinct neighborhoods, with crime scores reflecting both violent and property crime incidents. While 67% of areas earn a B or higher, indicating strong Cambridge safety, the remaining 33.3% fall into the C range, suggesting pockets where vigilance is advised. Factors like population density, economic disparities (with a 12% poverty rate), and the transient nature of a student-heavy population can influence crime in Cambridge. This section aims to provide a balanced overview, helping you interpret the Cambridge crime map effectively while considering local demographics and lifestyle.

Safest Neighborhoods in Cambridge

For those prioritizing safety, the Cambridge crime map highlights several neighborhoods as top choices for secure living. These areas consistently score high in safety metrics, offering peace of mind whether you're relocating or just visiting. Below are the standout safe neighborhoods in Cambridge, based on detailed crime data and community characteristics:

• West Cambridge: With a crime grade of A and a population of 7,385, this affluent area boasts a median income of $160,869. Its low crime rate and proximity to green spaces make it ideal for families and professionals seeking tranquility.
• Harvard Square: Earning an A- grade, this iconic neighborhood (population 7,730) blends academic vibrancy with safety. With a median income of $95,269, it's a hub for students and faculty, supported by active community policing.
• Agassiz: Also scoring an A-, Agassiz (population 4,968) offers a tight-knit feel with a median income of $125,488. Its residential charm and low crime make it a top pick for safety-conscious residents.
• MIT: With an A- grade and a population of 4,634, the area around MIT benefits from campus security measures and a median income of $79,104, fostering a secure environment for students and staff.
• Cambridge Highlands: Graded B+ with a smaller population of 1,146, this neighborhood combines a median income of $105,379 with lower crime rates, offering a quieter, safer slice of Cambridge.

These safe neighborhoods in Cambridge are characterized by higher median incomes, engaged communities, and often, proximity to academic institutions that prioritize security. Whether you're drawn to the cultural buzz of Harvard Square or the peaceful streets of West Cambridge, the Cambridge crime map confirms these areas as reliable choices for safety-focused living.

Areas Requiring Greater Awareness

While much of Cambridge benefits from a strong safety profile, certain neighborhoods on the Cambridge crime map indicate a need for heightened awareness. These areas, often grappling with urban challenges like higher population density or economic disparities, show crime grades in the C range. It's important to approach this data with perspective—crime in Cambridge, even in these zones, is often manageable with basic precautions. Below are neighborhoods where residents and visitors might exercise extra vigilance:

• Kendall Square: With a crime grade of C-, this tech and innovation hub sees higher foot traffic, which can contribute to petty crime. Staying aware of surroundings, especially at night, is advisable.
• Strawberry Hill: Graded C, this area faces moderate crime challenges, often related to property issues. Secure parking and home safety measures can help mitigate risks.
• The Port / Area Four: Earning a C+, this neighborhood experiences mixed safety outcomes. Community initiatives are active, but caution during late hours is recommended.
• North Cambridge: Also at a C+ grade, this area sees occasional incidents that warrant attention, particularly around busier intersections or transit points.
• Riverside: With a C+ rating, Riverside has areas of concern, though many incidents are non-violent. Staying informed via local alerts can enhance personal safety.

These neighborhoods are not inherently unsafe but reflect a Cambridge crime rate slightly above the city average in specific metrics. By using the Cambridge crime map and staying updated on local trends, individuals can navigate these areas confidently while taking practical steps to ensure their safety.

Crime Trends and Local Factors

Understanding crime in Cambridge requires looking beyond raw numbers to the underlying factors shaping the city's safety landscape. The Cambridge crime rate is influenced by a mix of demographic and environmental elements. For instance, the city's young median age of 31 and large student population—tied to institutions like Harvard and MIT—can lead to a higher incidence of minor property crimes, such as bike thefts or dorm break-ins, rather than violent offenses. Additionally, economic disparities, with a 12% poverty rate juxtaposed against a high median home value of $842,521, can create localized tensions that impact crime patterns.

Recent data from the Cambridge crime map shows a predominance of property crimes over violent ones, aligning with trends in many university-centric cities. Urban density (7,115 people per square mile) also plays a role, as crowded areas can see more opportunistic incidents. On the positive side, Cambridge benefits from robust community policing, active neighborhood watch programs, and university security resources that bolster overall safety. For a deeper dive into how local crime statistics fit into national patterns, the Bureau of Justice Statistics provides extensive reports and analysis.

Seasonal trends also affect Cambridge safety. The influx of students in fall and summer tourist spikes can temporarily elevate petty crime rates, particularly in high-traffic areas like Harvard Square or Kendall Square. Conversely, winter months often see a dip in reported incidents as outdoor activity decreases. By staying attuned to these patterns via the Cambridge crime map, residents can adjust their routines—whether securing belongings during busy semesters or leveraging quieter periods for community engagement. Local factors like a 4% unemployment rate and high education levels (79% college-educated) further suggest a community with resources to address crime proactively, reinforcing Cambridge's overall B safety grade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cambridge safe?

Yes, Cambridge is generally considered safe, with an overall crime grade of B based on analysis of 15 neighborhoods. Approximately 67% of these areas score a B or higher, indicating a strong level of Cambridge safety for most residents and visitors. While property crimes are more common than violent ones, particularly in student-heavy or high-traffic zones, basic precautions like securing belongings and staying aware at night can mitigate risks. The Cambridge crime map is a valuable tool for identifying safer areas and planning accordingly.

What is the crime rate in Cambridge?

The Cambridge crime rate reflects an average crime score of 0.304, earning the city an overall B grade for safety. Of the 15 neighborhoods analyzed, 26.7% (4 neighborhoods) earn an A grade, 40% (6 neighborhoods) score a B, and 33.3% (5 neighborhoods) fall into the C range. This distribution suggests that while most of Cambridge is safe, certain areas require more caution. Property crimes tend to outpace violent incidents, a trend visible on the Cambridge crime map, which helps users pinpoint specific risks by location.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Cambridge?

The safest neighborhoods in Cambridge, as highlighted by the Cambridge crime map, include West Cambridge (A grade), Harvard Square (A-), Agassiz (A-), MIT (A-), and Cambridge Highlands (B+). These areas consistently report lower crime rates, often due to higher median incomes, strong community engagement, and proximity to secure academic environments. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly zone or a student-safe area, these neighborhoods stand out for their excellent Cambridge safety profiles.

Is Cambridge a good place to live?

Cambridge is widely regarded as a great place to live, balancing a high quality of life with some safety considerations. With a median household income of $107,490, a highly educated population (79% college-educated), and cultural richness from institutions like Harvard and MIT, the city offers immense appeal. The Cambridge crime rate, reflected in its B safety grade, shows that while most areas are secure, certain neighborhoods warrant caution. Using the Cambridge crime map, residents can choose safer areas like West Cambridge or Agassiz, making it a viable and vibrant place to call home for students, professionals, and families alike.

Exploring Cambridge with Confidence

Armed with insights from the Cambridge crime map, you can navigate this historic and innovative city with assurance. From the top-tier safety of neighborhoods like West Cambridge and Harvard Square to areas requiring a bit more caution, understanding the Cambridge crime rate empowers smarter decisions about where to live or visit. Cambridge's overall B grade for safety, bolstered by a highly educated populace and active community efforts, underscores its appeal as a place to thrive. Whether you're strolling through academic hubs or settling into a new home, let the data guide you to enjoy all that Cambridge offers—safely and confidently.