Meridian, MS Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Meridian, MS

Is Meridian, MS safe?

Meridian carries an overall crime grade of D+, which places it below average compared to U.S. cities of similar size. With a poverty rate of 29.1% and a median household income of just $30,088 — well below the national median — the socioeconomic pressures that correlate with elevated crime rates are present here. That said, safety is not uniform across the city. Neighborhoods in the northern corridors and areas closer to established commercial districts tend to report fewer incidents than higher-density zones near the city center. Visitors and residents alike should review the interactive crime map regularly, apply standard precautions after dark, and stay connected with community watch programs to navigate the city more safely.

What is the crime rate in Meridian, MS?

Meridian's crime picture earns a D+ overall grade, reflecting crime rates that are elevated relative to national benchmarks. Property crime is the dominant category, consistent with cities where the unemployment rate (7.2%) and poverty rate (29.1%) create economic stress. Theft-related offenses — including vehicle break-ins and residential burglary — account for the largest share of reported incidents. Violent crime, while a smaller percentage of total reports, is still a concern in certain pockets of the city, particularly in areas with higher population density. Meridian's population density of 267 residents per square mile across a city of roughly 37,252 people means crime is not evenly distributed; the crime map reveals clear hotspot clusters rather than city-wide uniformity.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Meridian, MS?

Based on available crime distribution data, areas in the North Hills corridor and neighborhoods near Poplar Springs Drive tend to show lower incident concentrations on the crime map. These areas benefit from proximity to schools, parks, and community infrastructure, which generally correlates with stronger neighborhood cohesion and lower property crime rates. By contrast, some districts closer to the downtown core and higher-density residential zones register more frequent incidents of theft and assault. With a median home value of $87,047 and median rent of just $709, Meridian's housing market is accessible, but prospective residents should cross-reference the crime map with specific ZIP codes before committing to a neighborhood. Talking to current residents and monitoring recent incident reports on the map will give the most current picture.

Is Meridian, MS a good place to live?

Meridian presents a genuine trade-off for prospective residents. On the affordability side, the numbers are compelling: a median home value of $87,047, median rent of $709, and a cost of living well below national averages make it one of the more accessible housing markets in Mississippi. The city of roughly 37,252 people retains a close-knit, small-city character with cultural assets including its historic music heritage and local arts scene. However, the economic data tells a more challenging story — a 7.2% unemployment rate, a 29.1% poverty rate, and a median household income of $30,088 all contribute to the conditions that drive the city's D+ overall crime grade. For those who prioritize affordability and community feel, and who are willing to research specific neighborhoods carefully using the crime map, Meridian can be a workable choice. For families with children or individuals who weight public safety heavily in their decision, the crime data warrants serious consideration before relocating.

How does Meridian's crime grade compare to other Mississippi cities?

Meridian's D+ crime grade reflects crime rates that are elevated even within the context of Mississippi, a state that consistently ranks among the higher-crime states nationally. Cities with stronger economic indicators — lower poverty rates and higher median incomes — typically achieve better grades. Meridian's 29.1% poverty rate is roughly double the national average, and its $30,088 median household income is significantly below the U.S. median, both of which are strong predictors of property and violent crime frequency. Residents who track the crime map over time will notice that incident volume tends to spike during certain seasons and concentrates in specific census tracts, meaning the grade reflects real but geographically uneven risk across the city.