New Bedford, MA Crime Map

New Bedford Crime Map: Safety Insights and Statistics for 2023

Introduction to Crime in New Bedford, Massachusetts

Nestled along the scenic shores of Buzzards Bay, New Bedford, Massachusetts, is a historic city with a population of 149,570. Known for its rich whaling heritage and vibrant fishing industry, this Bristol County hub offers a unique blend of maritime charm and urban energy. With a population density of 1,840 people per square mile, it forms part of the greater Providence-Warwick metro area, bridging the cultural flavors of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. But how safe is New Bedford for residents and visitors? Our comprehensive New Bedford crime map and detailed analysis provide the answers you need to understand the city's safety landscape.

Based on extensive data analysis of 87 city blocks, New Bedford earns an overall crime score of 0.237, translating to a safety grade of B+. This places the city in a relatively safe category compared to many urban areas. However, crime scores across the city vary widely, ranging from 0.01 in the safest zones to 0.74 in areas with higher crime activity. The crime grade distribution reveals a promising picture: 47.1% of the city scores an A grade (safest), 31% earns a B (safe), 13.8% falls to a C (average), and just 8% dips to a D (below average). Notably, no areas in New Bedford register an F grade for high crime, which is a positive indicator for overall safety.

Understanding Crime in New Bedford

When exploring crime in New Bedford, it's essential to break down the types of incidents that impact the city. With an overall crime index of 140 (where 100 represents the national average), New Bedford experiences crime rates above the typical U.S. benchmark. This is reflected in both violent and property crime indexes, which stand at approximately 136 and 134, respectively. Key crime types exceeding national averages include larceny/theft, burglary, vehicle theft, assault, and robbery. These statistics suggest that while the city has many safe pockets, certain areas face challenges with both personal and property-related incidents.

Violent crime, though a concern in specific zones, is not uniformly distributed across the city. Similarly, property crimes like theft and burglary tend to cluster in busier or more densely populated sections, often tied to economic stressors or transient activity. Compared to the broader region, New Bedford's crime rates align with patterns seen in other mid-sized New England cities, where historical urban centers grapple with balancing growth and safety. For a deeper look at how these trends play out block by block, our interactive New Bedford crime map offers a detailed, user-friendly way to explore safety grades across the city.

Factors Influencing Safety in New Bedford

Economic Conditions

Economic factors play a significant role in shaping the New Bedford crime rate. The median household income here is $48,999, with only 20% of households earning over $100,000 annually. A poverty rate of 18.6% and an unemployment rate of 7.3%—higher than many comparable cities—can contribute to social stressors that correlate with crime. With 63% of the population participating in the labor force, economic opportunity varies widely, often influencing safety dynamics in different parts of the city.

Population Density and Urban Layout

With a population density of 1,840 per square mile, New Bedford's urban structure creates a mix of tightly packed residential zones and industrial waterfront areas. Higher density often correlates with increased opportunities for property crimes like theft or vehicle break-ins, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or commercial activity. Understanding how these patterns affect safety is key to navigating the city, and our New Bedford crime statistics map helps visualize these variations without pinpointing exact locations.

Historical and Cultural Context

New Bedford's storied past as a whaling capital in the 19th century and its current status as a major fishing port shape its social fabric. The city has long been a working-class stronghold, with a diverse population drawn to maritime industries. However, economic transitions and the decline of certain traditional sectors have left lingering challenges, sometimes reflected in crime trends. Cultural resilience, community programs, and a strong sense of local identity help counterbalance these issues, fostering safer environments in many parts of the city.

Living in New Bedford: Lifestyle and Demographics

For those considering a move or just curious about New Bedford safety, understanding the cost of living and community makeup is crucial. The overall cost of living index stands at 95 (below the national average of 100), making it relatively affordable compared to other Massachusetts cities. Housing costs, with a median home value of $238,812 and a homeownership rate of 40%, are manageable for some, though median rent at $869 per month consumes 29% of income for many renters. Other living expenses, like food (index 96), healthcare (93), and transportation (94), also hover near or below national averages.

The demographic profile of New Bedford reveals a median age of 36, with an average family size of 3.1. Only 35% of households are married, and 17% of residents hold a college degree. The average commute time is 26 minutes, reflecting the city's connectivity to surrounding areas in the Providence-Warwick metro region. Veterans make up 4.5% of the population, adding to the community's diverse tapestry. These factors shape the daily experience of living here and influence how safety concerns are perceived and addressed.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

New Bedford's climate is characteristic of coastal New England, with an average temperature range of 42°F to 59°F. Summers peak around 80°F in July, while winters can drop to a chilly 22°F in January. The city sees significant precipitation, with 50 inches of rain and 59 inches of snowfall annually, so residents must prepare for variable weather. Additionally, New Bedford faces an above-average risk for hurricanes, with a risk index of 155 (compared to a national average of 100). While not directly tied to crime, environmental factors like severe weather can impact public safety and emergency response, something to keep in mind when assessing overall New Bedford MA crime and livability.

Explore Our Interactive New Bedford Crime Map

Curious about how safety varies across different parts of the city? Our interactive New Bedford crime map is your go-to resource for detailed insights. Covering 87 analyzed city blocks, the map displays crime grades from A (safest) to D (below average), reflecting the score range of 0.01 to 0.74. Each grade is calculated using comprehensive data on violent and property crimes, giving you a clear picture of relative safety.

Using the map is simple: zoom in to explore specific zones, view crime score breakdowns, and see how different areas stack up. Whether you're planning a move, scouting a new place to work, or just visiting, this tool helps you make informed decisions about crime in New Bedford. Dive into the data today to uncover the safest spots and understand where extra caution might be warranted.

Safety Tips for Living in or Visiting New Bedford

Given the city's crime profile, staying safe in New Bedford involves a mix of awareness and practical precautions. Property crimes like larceny, burglary, and vehicle theft are more prevalent than the national average, so securing personal belongings is key. Always lock car doors, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, and invest in home security measures if possible. In busier or more crowded parts of the city, be mindful of your surroundings, especially after dark, as incidents like assault or robbery can occur in areas with higher crime scores.

For general safety, stick to well-lit, populated areas when walking or commuting, and trust your instincts if something feels off. Community engagement also plays a role—getting to know neighbors and participating in local initiatives can foster a safer environment. While New Bedford is largely safe with a B+ overall grade, staying proactive about personal security helps mitigate risks tied to the city's above-average New Bedford crime rate.

Conclusion: Is New Bedford Safe?

So, is New Bedford safe? With an overall crime score of 0.237 and a B+ safety grade, the city offers a generally secure environment, especially in the 47.1% of areas rated A for safety. However, with crime indexes for both violent and property incidents above the national average, caution is advised in certain zones where scores reach as high as 0.74. From economic challenges like a 7.3% unemployment rate to environmental risks like hurricanes, various factors shape the safety landscape here.

For anyone looking to live in, work in, or visit this historic coastal city, understanding New Bedford crime statistics is essential. Our interactive New Bedford crime map provides the most detailed, block-by-block insights available, helping you navigate the city with confidence. Whether you're drawn to its maritime heritage or affordable cost of living, take a moment to explore the map and see how safety varies across this dynamic Massachusetts gem. Dive into the data now and make informed choices about your next steps in New Bedford.