Malden, MA Crime Map

Explore crime rates, safest neighborhoods, and detailed crime statistics

Malden Crime Rate Statistics

Overall Crime
34%
worse than
U.S. avg
Violent Crime
28%
worse than
U.S. avg
Property Crime
1%
worse than
U.S. avg
Safe Areas
67%
A/B rated
of neighborhoods

Based on 18 neighborhoods · Compared to U.S. average

Cost of living & quick facts
Optional details (kept collapsed to reduce clutter)
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Overall Cost
5%
5% more expensive
Housing Cost
8%
8% more expensive
Population
60,710
Median Income
$73,399
Home Value
$445,848
Median Rent
$1,650/mo

Cost index: 100 = U.S. national average.

Welcome to a detailed exploration of safety in Malden, Massachusetts. If you're seeking insights through a Malden crime map, you've come to the right place to understand the city's safety landscape. Based on comprehensive data analysis of 18 neighborhoods, Malden earns an overall crime grade of B, indicating above-average safety compared to many other cities. A striking statistic reveals that 67% of Malden's neighborhoods score either an A or B grade for safety, showcasing a strong presence of secure areas within this vibrant community of over 60,000 residents. Whether you're a potential resident, a visitor, or a current local, understanding the Malden crime rate and neighborhood-specific safety trends is essential. This guide breaks down the safest neighborhoods in Malden, highlights areas needing more caution, and offers actionable insights to help you navigate the city with confidence.

Understanding Malden's Safety Landscape

Malden, located in Middlesex County just north of Boston, is a densely populated city with 4,646 residents per square mile. With a population of 60,710, it offers a blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. The median household income stands at $73,399, and the median home value is $445,848, reflecting a community with diverse economic backgrounds. However, factors like a 6.7% unemployment rate and a 15.6% poverty rate can influence local crime trends. When examining the Malden crime map, it's clear that safety varies significantly across neighborhoods. The average crime score of 0.322 indicates above-average safety, but understanding the distribution of crime grades—A (5.6%), B (61.1%), C (27.8%), and D (5.6%)—helps paint a clearer picture of where risks and security align. For broader context on national crime trends, you can refer to resources like the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program.

Crime in Malden is influenced by a mix of socioeconomic factors, population density, and proximity to larger urban centers like Boston. While the city benefits from a significant portion of college-educated residents (41%), challenges such as poverty and unemployment can contribute to localized crime in certain areas. The Malden crime rate, while moderate overall, requires a nuanced look at specific neighborhoods to fully grasp where safety is strongest and where vigilance is needed. This guide aims to provide that clarity, helping you make informed decisions whether you're exploring Malden for a new home or simply visiting.

Safest Neighborhoods in Malden

For those prioritizing Malden safety, several neighborhoods stand out as particularly secure based on the latest crime data. These areas consistently earn high grades on the Malden crime map, offering peace of mind for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Below are the top safe neighborhoods in Malden, showcasing their crime grades, population sizes, and median incomes to give a well-rounded view of what makes them desirable.

  • Upper Highlands: With a stellar Crime Grade of A, Upper Highlands is the safest neighborhood in Malden. Home to 3,286 residents and boasting a median income of $110,593, this area combines affluence with low crime rates, making it ideal for those seeking security and comfort.
  • Maplewood: Earning a B+ grade, Maplewood houses 3,678 residents with a median income of $85,976. Its strong safety profile and community-oriented atmosphere make it a popular choice for families.
  • Linden: Another B+ neighborhood, Linden has a population of 3,926 and a median income of $73,317. It offers a balanced environment with good safety metrics and accessible amenities.
  • Maplewood Highlands: Also graded B+, this area is home to 2,259 residents with a median income of $104,038. Its smaller size contributes to a tight-knit feel alongside robust safety.
  • Edgeworth: With a B+ grade and a population of 4,842, Edgeworth has a median income of $70,599. It's a larger neighborhood that maintains a strong safety record, appealing to a wide range of residents.

Other notable safe neighborhoods in Malden include Forestdale, Oak Grove, and Belmont, all of which score B+ grades. These areas collectively demonstrate that a significant portion of Malden offers environments where residents can feel secure. If you're considering a move, focusing on these neighborhoods can help ensure a safer living experience while enjoying the city's diverse offerings.

Areas Requiring Greater Awareness

While much of Malden boasts commendable safety, there are certain areas where crime rates are higher, and residents or visitors may need to exercise additional caution. The Malden crime map highlights neighborhoods with lower safety grades, though it's important to approach this information with perspective—crime in these areas is often tied to specific socioeconomic challenges rather than pervasive danger. Below are some parts of Malden where awareness is advised.

  • Island Hill: With a Crime Grade of D+, Island Hill faces more safety challenges compared to other parts of the city. Residents and visitors should stay vigilant, especially during late hours.
  • Downtown: Graded C-, the Downtown area experiences higher foot traffic and urban density, which can contribute to elevated crime rates. Staying aware of surroundings is key here.
  • Bell Rock: Scoring a C+, Bell Rock has moderate safety concerns. While not inherently unsafe, taking standard precautions can help mitigate risks.
  • Industrial Park and Suffolk Square: Both areas hold C+ grades, indicating a need for heightened awareness, particularly in less populated or commercial zones where incidents may occur.

Understanding crime in Malden means recognizing that even in areas with lower safety grades, risks can often be managed with common-sense practices like avoiding isolated areas at night and securing personal belongings. The city as a whole remains navigable, and these neighborhoods are still home to many residents who thrive with the right precautions.

Crime Trends and Local Factors

The Malden crime rate reflects a complex interplay of local dynamics. With 67% of neighborhoods earning A or B grades on the Malden crime map, the city demonstrates a strong foundation of safety. However, challenges persist in areas affected by economic disparities, as seen in the 15.6% poverty rate and 6.7% unemployment rate. These factors can contribute to property crimes or minor offenses in certain pockets of the city. Additionally, Malden's proximity to Boston means it sometimes experiences spillover effects from urban issues, though local law enforcement works diligently to address these concerns.

Recent data suggests that violent crime in Malden remains relatively low compared to national averages, with property crimes like theft or vandalism being more common in areas with lower safety grades. For a deeper understanding of how Malden fits into broader state and national trends, the Bureau of Justice Statistics provides valuable resources. Community initiatives, such as neighborhood watch programs and increased police presence in higher-risk zones, are helping to improve Malden safety over time. Seasonal trends also play a role, with crime sometimes spiking during holidays or warmer months when more people are out and about.

Another factor influencing crime in Malden is its population density. At 4,646 residents per square mile, crowded areas can see higher incidences of minor crimes like pickpocketing or vehicle break-ins, especially in commercial hubs. However, the city's median age of 35 and significant college-educated population (41%) suggest a community with a strong potential for growth and stability, which can positively impact safety in the long term. Staying informed about local crime trends through updated Malden crime map data ensures you're equipped to make smart choices wherever you are in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Malden safe?

Overall, Malden is considered a relatively safe city with an average crime grade of B, indicating above-average safety. About 67% of its 18 analyzed neighborhoods earn either an A or B grade on the Malden crime map, showcasing a strong presence of secure areas. While some neighborhoods like Upper Highlands and Maplewood are exceptionally safe, others, such as Island Hill and Downtown, require more caution due to higher crime rates. By staying aware of your surroundings and focusing on safer zones, most residents and visitors can feel secure in Malden.

What is the crime rate in Malden?

The Malden crime rate aligns with its overall B grade for safety, reflecting above-average security across the city. Of the 18 neighborhoods analyzed, 5.6% score an A, 61.1% a B, 27.8% a C, and 5.6% a D. This distribution shows that while the majority of areas are safe, there are pockets where crime is more prevalent. Property crimes tend to outnumber violent crimes, particularly in denser or economically challenged areas, but local efforts continue to address these issues effectively.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Malden?

The safest neighborhoods in Malden, based on crime data, include Upper Highlands (Crime Grade A), Maplewood (B+), Linden (B+), Maplewood Highlands (B+), and Edgeworth (B+). These areas consistently show low crime rates on the Malden crime map, making them ideal for families or individuals prioritizing safety. With higher median incomes and stable communities, these neighborhoods offer both security and a high quality of life.

Is Malden a good place to live?

Malden can be a great place to live, especially if you value proximity to Boston, a diverse community, and access to safe neighborhoods. With 67% of areas graded A or B for safety, many parts of the city, like Upper Highlands and Oak Grove, provide secure and welcoming environments. However, factors like a 15.6% poverty rate and areas with higher crime, such as Island Hill, mean that choosing the right neighborhood is key. Overall, Malden offers affordability (compared to Boston), cultural diversity, and improving safety trends, making it a viable option for many.

Exploring Malden with Confidence

Navigating Malden, Massachusetts, becomes much easier when armed with insights from the Malden crime map. With an overall crime grade of B and 67% of neighborhoods rated as safe, the city offers plenty of secure areas like Upper Highlands and Maplewood for residents and visitors to enjoy. By understanding the Malden crime rate and focusing on safe neighborhoods in Malden, you can make informed decisions about where to live, work, or explore. While certain areas require extra caution, common-sense practices can mitigate risks, allowing you to experience all that Malden has to offer—from its vibrant community to its convenient location near Boston. Use this guide as your starting point to explore Malden safety trends and move through the city with confidence.

All 18 Neighborhoods in Malden

Ranked by safety (safest first)
Rank Neighborhood Score Safety Median Income
#1 Upper Highlands A Very safe $110,593
#2 Maplewood B+ Above average $85,976
#3 Linden B+ Above average $73,317
#4 Maplewood Highlands B+ Above average $104,038
#5 Edgeworth B+ Above average $70,599
#6 Forestdale B+ Above average $76,707
#7 Oak Grove B+ Above average $117,289
#8 Belmont B+ Above average $91,375
#9 North Faulkner B Safe area $76,671
#10 West End B Safe area $64,819
#11 Waitts Mount B- Safe area $60,332
#12 Linden Highlands B- Safe area $85,356
#13 South Broadway C+ Average $50,677
#14 Suffolk Square C+ Average $67,575
#15 Industrial Park C+ Average $56,396
#16 Bell Rock C+ Average $80,411
#17 Downtown C- Average $75,693
#18 Island Hill D+ Below average $58,025

All 18 Neighborhoods by Crime Level

Ranked by crime (highest first)
Rank Neighborhood Score Safety Level Median Income
#1 Island Hill D+ Below average $58,025
#2 Downtown C- Average $75,693
#3 Bell Rock C+ Average $80,411
#4 Industrial Park C+ Average $56,396
#5 Suffolk Square C+ Average $67,575
#6 South Broadway C+ Average $50,677
#7 Linden Highlands B- Safe area $85,356
#8 Waitts Mount B- Safe area $60,332
#9 West End B Safe area $64,819
#10 North Faulkner B Safe area $76,671
#11 Belmont B+ Above average $91,375
#12 Oak Grove B+ Above average $117,289
#13 Forestdale B+ Above average $76,707
#14 Edgeworth B+ Above average $70,599
#15 Maplewood Highlands B+ Above average $104,038
#16 Linden B+ Above average $73,317
#17 Maplewood B+ Above average $85,976
#18 Upper Highlands A Very safe $110,593

Malden Demographics Overview

63,607
Total Population
$78,103
Average Household Income
18
Neighborhoods Analyzed

Surrounding Cities

Malden Zip Codes

View crime statistics by zip code in Malden, MA

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