Lexington, MA Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Lexington, MA

What is Lexington's overall crime grade and how does it compare to other cities?

Lexington earns an overall crime grade of B+, placing it well above average compared to most U.S. cities of similar size. With a population of approximately 33,304 and a population density of just 782 residents per square mile, Lexington's relatively low density helps limit the concentration of criminal activity. For context, many comparable suburban towns in Massachusetts score in the C or C+ range, making Lexington's B+ a meaningful distinction for prospective residents evaluating safety.

How safe is Lexington, MA in 2026?

Lexington remains one of the safer communities in the Greater Boston area. Its B+ crime grade reflects a combination of strong socioeconomic indicators — including a median household income of $185,686, an unemployment rate of just 3.5%, and a poverty rate of only 3.2% — all of which correlate strongly with lower crime levels. Research consistently shows that communities with poverty rates below 5% and unemployment below 4% experience significantly fewer violent incidents, and Lexington's numbers fall comfortably within those thresholds. Neighborhoods near the Historic District and Battle Green area continue to be among the most frequented and well-monitored parts of town.

What types of crime are most common in Lexington?

Like most affluent suburban communities, Lexington's crime profile skews heavily toward property crime rather than violent crime. Incidents such as package theft, vehicle break-ins, and occasional vandalism account for the majority of reported cases. Violent crime — including assault or robbery — represents a small fraction of overall incidents and occurs at rates well below state and national averages. Areas around the town center and Lexington Center commercial district see the highest concentration of minor property-related reports, largely due to higher foot traffic, while residential neighborhoods like West Lexington and areas near Lexington High School report very few incidents of any kind.

What is the crime rate in Lexington relative to its income and home values?

Lexington's crime rate is consistent with what researchers would predict given its demographics. With a median home value of $934,139 and a median rent of $2,431, the town attracts a stable, established resident base. Studies of crime patterns show that communities with median home values above $500,000 typically experience property crime rates 30–50% below the national median — and Lexington's B+ grade reflects exactly that dynamic. The town's affluence does not eliminate crime entirely, but it substantially reduces both the frequency and severity of incidents compared to denser urban environments.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Lexington, MA?

While hyper-local block-by-block data varies, several Lexington neighborhoods are consistently regarded as among the safest. The Historic District near Battle Green benefits from high visibility, regular foot traffic, and proximity to civic institutions. West Lexington residential areas are characterized by low density and strong neighborhood cohesion. Neighborhoods surrounding Minuteman National Historical Park also tend to report minimal incidents, partly due to active community engagement and proximity to well-maintained public spaces. Across all of these areas, property crime — already low town-wide — is even less prevalent than in the commercial corridors.

Is Lexington a good place to live from a safety standpoint?

By nearly every measurable metric, yes. Lexington's B+ crime grade, combined with a poverty rate of 3.2% and unemployment of 3.5%, paints the picture of a community where safety is the norm rather than the exception. Families with children benefit from low violent crime rates, strong school engagement, and active neighborhood watch participation. Professionals and retirees appreciate the town's quiet residential character and responsive local law enforcement. While no community achieves a perfect A grade — minor property crimes occur everywhere — Lexington's overall safety profile ranks it among the top-performing suburbs in Massachusetts for residents who prioritize security alongside quality of life.