Moorhead, MN Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Moorhead, MN

Is Moorhead, MN safe?

Moorhead earns an overall crime grade of B+, which places it among the safer mid-sized cities in Minnesota. With a population of approximately 43,409 and a population density of 752 people per square mile, Moorhead is relatively spread out, which tends to correlate with lower crime concentration. The city's low unemployment rate of 3.8% and a median household income of $61,220 support community stability. That said, a poverty rate of 16.2% does indicate economic stress in some pockets of the city, and crime patterns tend to reflect that unevenness. Areas near Concordia College and West Moorhead generally report fewer incidents, while some central corridors see more activity. Overall, the vast majority of Moorhead residents describe the city as safe and livable.

What is the crime rate in Moorhead, MN?

Moorhead's overall crime performance grades out at a B+, reflecting a city that outperforms many comparable Midwestern communities. Property crime — including vehicle theft, shoplifting, and burglary — accounts for the largest share of reported incidents, which is consistent with national patterns for cities of this size and density. Violent crime rates remain notably lower than state and national averages. The city's median rent of $880 and median home value of $201,031 suggest a stable housing market, and economic stability is one of the strongest predictors of lower violent crime rates. Law enforcement in Moorhead actively publishes incident data, and residents are encouraged to consult the Moorhead Police Department for the most current figures.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Moorhead, MN?

Based on available crime mapping data, neighborhoods near Concordia College and the West Moorhead area consistently show lower incident densities. South Moorhead residential zones also tend to perform well, benefiting from newer housing stock, active neighborhood associations, and proximity to parks. In contrast, some blocks in the central and older downtown-adjacent corridors see higher concentrations of property crime reports. When evaluating a specific address, use the interactive crime map to filter by incident type and time range — this gives a far more precise picture than neighborhood-level generalizations alone. Moorhead's B+ overall grade means that even its more active areas compare favorably to similarly sized cities nationally.

Is Moorhead, MN a good place to live?

By most measurable indicators, Moorhead is a strong choice for families, students, and working professionals. The city's B+ crime grade is backed by solid economic fundamentals: a 3.8% unemployment rate, a median household income of $61,220, and a median home value of just $201,031 — well below the national median — make homeownership accessible. Median rent of $880 also keeps the city competitive for renters. The 16.2% poverty rate is worth noting, as it is somewhat elevated and does contribute to localized crime disparities in certain neighborhoods. However, Moorhead's proximity to Fargo, ND, its two four-year colleges, and its extensive park system give it quality-of-life advantages that many similarly priced cities lack. Taken together, the data paints a picture of an affordable, relatively safe, and community-oriented city.

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

Moorhead's B+ overall crime grade puts it in a favorable position relative to many Minnesota cities of comparable size. Cities with higher population densities or greater income inequality tend to score lower. Moorhead's combination of a 752 people per square mile density — moderate, not dense — and a reasonably strong median income helps keep its crime metrics in check. The city's poverty rate of 16.2% is the primary risk factor that prevents a higher grade, as concentrated poverty is statistically linked to elevated property and violent crime rates. Still, a B+ is a meaningful achievement and reflects genuine community investment in public safety, neighborhood watch programs, and proactive policing strategies.