Paducah, KY Crime Map

Navigating safety in any city starts with understanding the local landscape, and for those looking into Paducah, KY, the Paducah crime map offers a detailed guide to help residents and visitors make informed decisions. With an average crime score of 0.258, Paducah earns an overall crime grade of B+, indicating a generally safe environment across its 44 analyzed neighborhoods. A compelling statistic to note is that 75% of these neighborhoods achieve a crime grade of B or higher, with 40.9% earning an A grade, showcasing a significant portion of the city as notably secure. Whether you're considering a move to this historic city along the Ohio River, planning a visit, or simply exploring crime trends, the Paducah crime map serves as a vital tool. Located in McCracken County with a population of 24,947, Paducah blends small-town charm with urban amenities, but like any city, safety varies by area. This guide delves into the Paducah crime rate, highlights safe neighborhoods in Paducah, and provides actionable insights for staying secure.

Understanding Paducah's Safety Landscape

Paducah, Kentucky, often celebrated for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and scenic riverfront, maintains a relatively safe environment for its residents and visitors. With a population density of 474 people per square mile, the city offers a quieter pace compared to larger urban centers, which can contribute to its overall safety profile. The Paducah crime map reveals that the majority of the city's 44 neighborhoods fall into the safer categories, with 18 earning an A grade and 15 receiving a B grade. This means that 75% of Paducah's neighborhoods are considered safe, a reassuring statistic for families and individuals alike.

Demographic factors also play a role in understanding Paducah safety. The median age of 44 suggests a mature population, often correlating with lower crime rates, while the median household income of $39,061 and a poverty rate of 21.8% highlight economic challenges that can influence crime in certain areas. However, the city's low unemployment rate of 3% and a college-educated population of 27% indicate a community with stable employment and educational opportunities, which can bolster safety. For a broader perspective on crime trends, the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program provides valuable national and regional data that contextualizes Paducah's statistics.

Safest Neighborhoods in Paducah

For those seeking the safest neighborhoods in Paducah, the crime map highlights several standout areas where safety grades are consistently high. These neighborhoods not only boast low crime rates but also offer desirable living conditions with higher median incomes and community stability. Here are the top five safest neighborhoods based on the latest data:

• Woodlawn: With a crime grade of A+ and a small population of 527, Woodlawn is a secure enclave. Its median income of $94,826 reflects a prosperous community, making it an ideal spot for families seeking safety and affluence.
• Deer Lick Place: Also earning an A+ crime grade, this neighborhood houses 644 residents and has a median income of $96,337. Its high safety rating and economic stability make it a top choice for those prioritizing Paducah safety.
• Wallace Park: Home to 1,108 residents, Wallace Park scores an A+ for safety. With a median income of $76,180, it offers a balance of security and community engagement, perfect for a peaceful lifestyle.
• Country Club: This neighborhood, with 907 residents, holds an A crime grade. A median income of $65,490 supports a comfortable living environment, complemented by low crime rates.
• Tilghman: Rounding out the top five, Tilghman has a population of 703 and a crime grade of A-. Its median income of $63,796 aligns with a stable, safe community atmosphere.

These areas exemplify the best of safe neighborhoods in Paducah, offering peace of mind for residents. Whether you're drawn to the higher income brackets of Woodlawn and Deer Lick Place or the community feel of Wallace Park, these neighborhoods consistently rank high on the Paducah crime map for safety.

Areas Requiring Greater Awareness

While much of Paducah is considered safe, there are certain areas where crime rates are relatively higher, and residents or visitors may need to exercise additional caution. The Paducah crime map identifies neighborhoods like Uppertown (C- grade) and Walter Jetton (C grade) as areas with more frequent crime incidents compared to the city's safest zones. Other neighborhoods, such as Cruse, Glendale, and Jefferson Street, fall into the B- range, indicating moderate safety concerns but not extreme risks.

It's important to approach these areas with context. Factors such as economic challenges or proximity to busier urban zones can contribute to elevated crime in Paducah. For instance, lower median incomes in some of these neighborhoods may correlate with property crime or petty theft. However, this doesn't mean these areas are unsafe for daily living—many residents thrive in these communities by staying aware of their surroundings and taking common-sense precautions. The Paducah crime rate in these zones isn't alarmingly high, but it's wise to remain vigilant, especially at night or in less populated areas.

Crime Trends and Local Factors

Understanding crime in Paducah requires looking beyond the numbers on the Paducah crime map to consider broader trends and contributing factors. With an overall crime grade of B+, Paducah performs well compared to national averages, particularly in terms of violent crime, which remains relatively low across most neighborhoods. Property crime, such as theft or burglary, tends to be the more common issue in areas with lower safety grades, often tied to socioeconomic factors like the city's 21.8% poverty rate.

Local initiatives and law enforcement efforts play a significant role in maintaining Paducah safety. Community policing, neighborhood watch programs, and public safety campaigns help mitigate crime risks, especially in areas needing greater awareness. Additionally, the city's median home value of $114,422 suggests affordable housing, which can attract a diverse population but also poses challenges in maintaining consistent safety across all areas. Seasonal trends, such as increased tourism along the riverfront, can also influence temporary spikes in minor crimes like pickpocketing.

For those interested in deeper insights into crime patterns, the Bureau of Justice Statistics offers comprehensive data on local and national crime trends, providing a useful benchmark for understanding Paducah's position. Economic revitalization efforts and community engagement continue to shape the city's safety landscape, making it a dynamic environment where crime rates can improve over time with sustained investment.

Another factor influencing the Paducah crime rate is the city's demographic makeup. With a median age of 44, the population skews older, often correlating with lower incidences of violent crime. However, economic disparities, as seen in the varying median incomes across neighborhoods, can create pockets where crime is more prevalent. By focusing on community development and support systems, Paducah continues to work toward enhancing safety citywide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Paducah safe?

Overall, Paducah is considered a safe city with an average crime grade of B+ across its 44 neighborhoods. Approximately 75% of these areas earn a grade of B or higher, indicating that most of the city offers a secure environment for residents and visitors. While certain neighborhoods require more caution, violent crime rates are generally low compared to national averages, and many families find Paducah a welcoming place to live with the right awareness and precautions.

What is the crime rate in Paducah?

The Paducah crime rate reflects a generally safe community, with an average crime score of 0.258, translating to a B+ grade. Of the 44 neighborhoods analyzed on the Paducah crime map, 40.9% receive an A grade, 34.1% a B grade, 20.5% a C grade, and only 4.5% a D grade. This distribution shows that the majority of the city experiences low to moderate crime, primarily property-related, rather than violent incidents.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Paducah?

The safest neighborhoods in Paducah, according to the latest crime map data, include Woodlawn (A+), Deer Lick Place (A+), Wallace Park (A+), Country Club (A), and Tilghman (A-). These areas consistently rank high for Paducah safety, offering low crime rates and stable, often affluent, communities. They are ideal for those prioritizing security when choosing a place to live or visit in the city.

Is Paducah a good place to live?

Paducah can be a great place to live, balancing small-town charm with cultural attractions like its historic downtown and the National Quilt Museum. With a B+ crime grade and 75% of neighborhoods rated safe, it offers a secure environment for many. However, economic challenges, such as a 21.8% poverty rate and median household income of $39,061, mean some areas face higher crime risks. Affordable housing (median home value of $114,422) and a low unemployment rate of 3% add to its appeal, though prospective residents should research specific neighborhoods for the best fit.

Exploring Paducah with Confidence

Armed with insights from the Paducah crime map, you can explore this historic Kentucky city with greater confidence. Whether you're drawn to the safety of neighborhoods like Woodlawn and Deer Lick Place or navigating areas requiring more awareness, understanding the Paducah crime rate empowers informed decisions. Paducah's blend of cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and community spirit makes it a unique place to live or visit, provided you prioritize safety and stay informed. Use this guide to uncover safe neighborhoods in Paducah, appreciate the city's efforts to enhance security, and enjoy all that Paducah has to offer with peace of mind.