Marshall, MN Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Marshall, MN

Is Marshall, MN safe?

Marshall earns an overall crime grade of B-, which places it in a reasonably safe tier relative to similarly sized Minnesota cities. With a population of roughly 13,604 and a population density of just 514 people per square mile, the city's relatively spread-out layout contributes to lower crime concentration compared to denser urban areas. The unemployment rate sits at a low 2.6% — well below the national average — which research consistently links to reduced property and violent crime rates. That said, the city's 17.7% poverty rate is a factor worth noting, as economic stress can elevate certain crime categories. On balance, most residents and visitors experience Marshall as a safe, manageable community, though standard precautions always apply.

What is the crime rate in Marshall, MN?

Marshall's overall crime profile reflects a B- grade, indicating crime levels that are below average for U.S. cities but not negligible. Property crimes — including theft, burglary, and vehicle-related offenses — account for the majority of reported incidents, which is typical for small Midwestern cities with commercial corridors. Violent crimes represent a smaller share of total incidents and occur at rates consistent with towns of Marshall's size and density (514 residents per sq mi). The city's median household income of $48,236 and median home value of $155,842 reflect a working-class economy where property crime prevention, such as securing vehicles and locking doors, remains the most practical safety measure for residents.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Marshall, MN?

While granular block-level crime data varies over time, certain areas of Marshall have historically been associated with lower incident rates. Residential zones near Westside Park and the neighborhoods surrounding Marshall Middle School tend to attract families and benefit from higher foot traffic and community visibility — both of which are natural deterrents to opportunistic crime. Areas close to the Lyon County Government Center in the city center also see regular civic activity that contributes to a safer environment. Conversely, commercial strips and high-traffic retail zones tend to generate a higher share of property crime reports, which is consistent with national patterns. Using the Marshall crime map to filter by crime type and time period gives the most current neighborhood-level picture.

Is Marshall a good place to live based on crime and cost of living?

From a combined safety and affordability standpoint, Marshall presents a compelling case. The city's B- crime grade means most residents go about daily life without significant safety concerns. Pair that with a median rent of just $684/month and a median home value of $155,842 — both well below Minnesota and national medians — and the cost-of-safety equation looks favorable. The 2.6% unemployment rate signals a stable local job market anchored by agriculture, healthcare, and Southwest Minnesota State University. The 17.7% poverty rate is the most notable economic stress indicator and does contribute to some property crime activity, but it has not pushed Marshall out of the B-tier crime range. For families, retirees, or first-time homebuyers prioritizing affordability alongside reasonable safety, Marshall offers a strong value proposition.

How does Marshall's crime grade compare to other small Minnesota cities?

Marshall's B- overall crime grade places it in the upper-middle tier of safety for Minnesota communities in the 10,000–20,000 population range. Cities of similar size sometimes score lower (C or D range) when unemployment spikes or when they sit along high-traffic regional corridors that attract transient property crime. Marshall's 2.6% unemployment rate and relatively low population density of 514 per sq mi help keep its grade competitive. The city is not a statistical outlier in either direction — it does not rank among Minnesota's safest small cities, but it comfortably avoids the higher-risk categories. Residents looking to benchmark safety should focus on the B- grade as a reliable summary: better than average, with room for continued community investment in crime prevention.

What types of crime are most common in Marshall, MN?

Consistent with its B- crime grade, Marshall's reported incidents skew heavily toward property crime rather than violent offenses. Theft — including shoplifting from retail areas and vehicle break-ins — represents the most frequently reported category, which is typical for a regional commercial hub serving Lyon County's broader population. Vandalism and minor property damage incidents also appear in local reports. Violent crimes such as assault are reported at comparatively low rates given the city's size and 13,604-person population, though they are not absent. The 17.7% poverty rate does correlate statistically with elevated property crime frequency, making home security basics — locked doors, secured garages, and well-lit entryways — the most impactful personal safety investments for Marshall residents.