Hampton, VA Crime Map

Hampton Crime Map: Safety Insights and Statistics for Hampton, VA

Introduction to Hampton, VA: A Coastal City with Rich History

Located in the heart of the Virginia Peninsula, Hampton, Virginia, is a vibrant coastal city with a population of 135,169. Known for its deep ties to American history, including being one of the oldest continuously inhabited English settlements, Hampton offers a blend of historical charm and modern urban life. Part of the larger Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News metro area, the city boasts a population density of 1,014 people per square mile, reflecting its mix of bustling districts and quieter residential zones. But how safe is Hampton for residents and visitors? With a citywide crime score of 0.252, translating to a B+ safety grade, Hampton generally ranks as a safe place to live compared to many urban centers. However, safety varies across the city. In this guide, we'll dive into the Hampton crime rate, explore key statistics, and show you how to use our interactive Hampton crime map to get a clearer picture of safety in different parts of town.

Understanding Crime in Hampton, VA

Crime in Hampton, VA, is a complex picture, with an overall crime index of 96, just below the national average of 100. This suggests that the city experiences crime rates close to what you'd expect for a mid-sized urban area. Breaking it down further, the violent crime index sits at approximately 98, while the property crime index is slightly higher at around 104, indicating that property crimes are a bit more prevalent than violent incidents compared to national benchmarks.

Across the 96 city blocks we've analyzed, the crime grade distribution shows a promising trend: 53.1% of the city earns an A grade, marking those areas as among the safest, while 26% fall into the B category, still considered safe. However, 7.3% of the city scores a C (average safety), 9.4% a D (below average), and a small 4.2% receives an F, indicating higher crime levels in those pockets. This range highlights that while much of Hampton is safe, certain areas face more challenges with crime.

Property crimes like larceny/theft and burglary, along with robbery, stand out as categories where Hampton exceeds the national average. This means residents should be particularly vigilant about securing personal belongings and homes. Violent crime, while not as dominant, still requires awareness, especially in areas with lower safety grades. Compared to other cities in the region, Hampton's crime rates are moderate, reflecting its position as a mid-tier urban hub with both suburban and denser city-like characteristics.

Factors Influencing Safety in Hampton

Economic Conditions and Their Impact

Economic factors often play a significant role in shaping crime trends, and Hampton is no exception. With a median household income of $57,041, the city falls slightly below the national median, and 15.3% of residents live below the poverty line. The unemployment rate of 6.1% also suggests some economic strain, which can correlate with higher rates of property crimes as individuals may turn to theft in times of financial hardship. However, 23% of households earn over $100,000 annually, indicating a notable segment of economic stability that can contribute to safer environments in parts of the city.

Population Density and Urban Layout

Hampton's population density of 1,014 people per square mile reflects a mix of urban and suburban settings. Areas with higher density often see more frequent property crimes due to the sheer number of potential targets, while less dense zones may experience fewer incidents but could be more isolated, impacting response times for emergencies. The city's layout, influenced by its coastal geography and historical development, creates varied environments where safety can differ significantly from one part of town to another.

Historical and Cultural Context

Hampton's history as a key player in early American settlement and its role during significant historical events have shaped its cultural landscape. The city's long-standing military presence, with a notable 18.3% of residents being veterans, fosters a strong sense of community in many areas, which can deter crime through active neighborhood engagement. However, economic disparities rooted in historical challenges continue to influence safety outcomes in certain zones, contributing to the uneven distribution of crime grades across the city.

Living in Hampton: Lifestyle and Demographics

Life in Hampton offers a blend of affordability and coastal appeal. The overall cost of living index is 89, below the national average of 100, making it a relatively budget-friendly place to reside. Housing costs, with a median home value of $187,916 and a homeownership rate of 57%, are accessible compared to other parts of the metro area. For renters, the median rent is $1,115 per month, though the rent burden—33% of income—suggests some financial pressure for lower-income households.

Demographically, Hampton is diverse, with a median age of 36 and an average family size of 3.1. About 40% of households are married, and 27% of residents hold a college degree. The average commute time of 23 minutes reflects the city's manageable size and proximity to larger employment hubs in the region. This mix of young families, professionals, and a significant veteran population creates a dynamic community where safety concerns often revolve around protecting personal property and maintaining neighborhood vigilance.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

Hampton's climate is characterized by mild winters and warm, humid summers, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 68°F. July highs reach around 87°F, while January lows dip to 31°F. The city sees 47 inches of rainfall annually and a modest 14 inches of snowfall, making weather-related disruptions minimal for most of the year. However, Hampton faces a significantly elevated risk of hurricanes, with a risk index of 266 compared to the national average of 100. This environmental factor can indirectly impact safety, as natural disasters may strain local resources or lead to temporary increases in property crimes during recovery periods. Residents should factor in both weather risks and crime statistics when planning where to settle in the city.

Using Our Interactive Hampton Crime Map

Curious about how safe specific parts of Hampton are? Our interactive Hampton crime map is your go-to tool for detailed, block-by-block insights. Covering 96 analyzed blocks, the map assigns safety grades from A (safest) to F (highest crime) based on comprehensive crime data. You can zoom in to explore how safety varies across the city, helping you make informed decisions whether you're house-hunting, planning a visit, or simply curious about local trends.

Interpreting the map is straightforward: areas with A and B grades indicate lower crime rates and safer environments, while C, D, and F grades signal progressively higher risks. The map also highlights the types of crime most common in different zones, such as property crimes like burglary or larceny, which are above the national average in Hampton. Take a few minutes to explore the tool and see the full scope of Hampton crime statistics tailored to your areas of interest.

Safety Tips for Living in or Visiting Hampton, VA

While Hampton is generally safe with a B+ citywide crime score, staying proactive about personal safety is always wise. Given the higher-than-average rates of larceny/theft and burglary, securing your home with sturdy locks, alarm systems, and proper lighting can deter potential intruders. When out and about, keep valuables out of sight in vehicles and avoid leaving belongings unattended in public spaces.

Robbery, another crime type above the national average, underscores the importance of situational awareness. Stick to well-lit, populated areas when walking at night, and consider traveling in groups if you're in less familiar parts of the city. For residents, getting to know your neighbors and participating in community watch programs can create a stronger safety net. By staying informed through tools like our Hampton crime map, you can better understand the specific risks in different areas and take appropriate precautions.

Conclusion: Navigating Safety with the Hampton Crime Map

Hampton, Virginia, offers a compelling mix of history, affordability, and coastal living, with a crime rate that aligns closely with national averages. With an overall crime score of 0.252 (B+), the city is considered safe for the most part, though property crimes like larceny and burglary, as well as robbery, are areas of concern. Safety varies across the city, with over half of analyzed blocks earning top safety grades, while a small percentage face higher crime challenges. Economic factors, population density, and environmental risks like hurricanes all shape the safety landscape in unique ways.

Whether you're a resident, potential mover, or visitor, understanding the Hampton crime rate and local safety trends is key to making informed choices. Our interactive Hampton crime map provides the detailed, area-specific data you need to navigate the city confidently. Explore the map today to uncover the latest Hampton crime statistics and see for yourself—is Hampton safe for you and your family? Dive in now and take control of your safety planning with real-time insights.