Stillwater, OK Crime Map
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Stillwater Crime Map: Safety and Crime Statistics for Stillwater, OK
Introduction to Stillwater and Its Safety Profile
Nestled in the heart of Payne County, Stillwater, Oklahoma, is a vibrant college town with a population of 50,183. Known for being the home of Oklahoma State University, Stillwater blends small-town charm with the energy of a youthful, academic community. With a population density of 650 people per square mile, the city offers a relatively spacious environment compared to larger urban centers. But how safe is Stillwater? If you're searching for a reliable "Stillwater crime map" or curious about the "Stillwater crime rate," you've come to the right place. Our comprehensive analysis and interactive tools will help you understand the safety landscape of this unique Oklahoma city.
Stillwater boasts an impressive city-wide average crime score of 0.139, earning it a "Very Safe" rating with a Grade A designation. This score indicates that, overall, the city experiences lower crime levels compared to many other places across the country. However, safety can vary significantly depending on where you are in the city, with crime scores ranging from 0.02 in the safest areas to 0.37 in areas with higher reported incidents. Of the 34 city blocks we analyzed, a remarkable 70.6% fall into the Grade A (Safest) category, while the remaining 29.4% are rated Grade B (Safe). Notably, no areas in Stillwater fall into the average or below-average safety categories, painting a picture of a generally secure community.
Understanding Crime in Stillwater, OK
When exploring "crime in Stillwater," it's important to break down the types of incidents that contribute to the overall crime index. Stillwater's overall crime index stands at 115, slightly above the national average of 100. This includes a violent crime index of approximately 126 and a property crime index of around 131, indicating that both categories are areas of concern relative to national benchmarks. Specific crime types that exceed the national average include larceny/theft, burglary, vehicle theft, assault, and robbery. Property crimes, in particular, appear to be more prevalent, which is a common trend in college towns where transient populations and student housing can sometimes attract opportunistic thieves.
Despite these figures, the vast majority of Stillwater enjoys high safety ratings, with no areas falling below a Grade B in our analysis. This suggests that while certain types of crime are more frequent than the national average, they are likely concentrated in specific pockets rather than widespread across the city. Compared to other cities in the region, Stillwater's crime profile is relatively mild, especially for a town with such a young and dynamic population. For a deeper dive into how safety varies across different parts of the city, our interactive Stillwater crime map offers detailed insights tailored to specific locations.
Factors Influencing Safety in Stillwater
Economic Conditions
Economic factors play a significant role in shaping safety trends in any city, and Stillwater is no exception. With a median household income of $34,906, the city falls well below the national average, reflecting the influence of a large student population with limited earning potential. Additionally, a striking 33% of residents live below the poverty line, which is notably higher than many comparable communities. The unemployment rate, at 4.1%, is moderate, but labor force participation is only 58%, likely due to the number of full-time students. These economic challenges can sometimes correlate with higher property crime rates, as financial stress may drive incidents like theft or burglary.
Population Dynamics and Urban Layout
Stillwater's population density of 650 per square mile creates a less crowded environment than major urban centers, which can contribute to lower crime rates in many areas. The city's layout, influenced by its role as a hub for education and agriculture, means that some parts are bustling with activity while others remain quieter and more residential. This variation in activity levels can impact where certain types of crime are more likely to occur, with busier zones often seeing higher reports of theft or minor assaults. Our Stillwater crime map allows you to explore these differences in detail without focusing on specific named areas.
Historical and Cultural Context
Stillwater's identity as a college town, deeply tied to Oklahoma State University, shapes much of its cultural and social fabric. The influx of students each year brings vitality but also challenges, such as a higher turnover of residents and a focus on affordable, densely packed housing options. Historically, the city has been a center for education and innovation in agriculture, fostering a tight-knit community spirit that often acts as a buffer against more serious crime. Events like football game days or large campus gatherings can temporarily spike minor incidents, but overall, the community prides itself on maintaining a welcoming and safe environment.
Living in Stillwater: Lifestyle and Demographics
For those considering a move to Stillwater or simply curious about "is Stillwater safe," understanding the cost of living and demographic makeup provides valuable context. The city's overall cost of living index is 93, below the national average of 100, making it a relatively affordable place to reside. Housing costs, with an index of 97, are also reasonable, with a median home value of $189,811 and median rent at $826 per month. However, the rent burden is high, with renters spending about 45% of their income on housing, reflecting the economic pressures faced by many in the student-heavy population.
Demographically, Stillwater is a young city, with a median age of just 24 years. The average family size is 2.9, and only 31% of households are married, underscoring the influence of the student community. Nearly half (49%) of residents are college-educated, a testament to the city's academic focus, and the average commute time is a short 17 minutes, making it easy to get around. Veterans make up 3.9% of the population, adding a layer of diversity to the community mix. Whether you're a student, young professional, or family, Stillwater offers a unique lifestyle that balances affordability with opportunity.
Climate and Environmental Considerations
Stillwater's climate is characteristic of the Great Plains, with an average temperature range of 48°F to 72°F. Summers can be scorching, with July highs reaching 94°F, while winters are chilly, dipping to 25°F in January. The city receives about 37 inches of rainfall annually and a modest 9 inches of snowfall, making weather-related disruptions relatively rare. However, natural disaster risks are a consideration, particularly with tornadoes (risk index of 136 compared to a national average of 100) and hail (a staggering risk index of 456). These environmental factors don't directly impact crime rates but are worth noting for anyone planning to live in or visit Stillwater, as they can influence overall safety and preparedness needs.
Explore Safety with Our Interactive Stillwater Crime Map
If you're searching for detailed "Stillwater crime statistics" or want to know how safe specific areas are, our interactive Stillwater crime map is an invaluable tool. This user-friendly resource allows you to explore crime grades across different parts of the city, based on our analysis of 34 distinct blocks. Each area is assigned a safety grade from A (Safest) to F (High Crime), helping you visualize where incidents are more or less frequent. The map reflects the crime score range of 0.02 to 0.37, giving you a clear picture of the safest and less secure zones without focusing on specific named locations.
Using the map is simple: zoom in to see detailed data, hover over areas to view their crime grades, and use the filters to focus on specific types of crime like violent or property incidents. Whether you're a prospective resident, a current local, or just passing through, this tool empowers you to make informed decisions about safety in Stillwater. Dive in now to explore the "Stillwater OK crime" landscape at your fingertips.
Safety Tips for Living in or Visiting Stillwater
While Stillwater is generally a safe place to live, with 70.6% of the city earning a Grade A safety rating, staying aware of local crime trends can enhance your security. Given the higher-than-average rates of property crimes like larceny/theft, burglary, and vehicle theft, it's wise to take precautions with personal belongings. Always lock your car, secure valuables out of sight, and consider investing in a home security system if you're a resident. In busier parts of the city, where foot traffic increases due to events or student activity, be mindful of pickpocketing or minor theft.
For violent crimes such as assault and robbery, which are also above the national average, practicing situational awareness is key. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated or poorly lit areas, and stick to well-traveled routes when possible. If you're a student or new to the area, familiarize yourself with local safety resources and emergency contact numbers. By staying proactive and informed—especially through tools like our Stillwater crime map—you can navigate the city with confidence.
Conclusion: Is Stillwater Safe for You?
Stillwater, Oklahoma, offers a compelling mix of small-town warmth and academic vibrancy, underpinned by a generally safe environment. With a city-wide crime score of 0.139 and a Grade A "Very Safe" rating, the majority of Stillwater—70.6%—falls into the safest category, while the rest remains securely in the Grade B range. However, with crime indices for violent (126) and property (131) incidents slightly above the national average, it's important to stay informed about specific risks like theft, burglary, and assault. Economic factors, a young demographic, and the city's college-town dynamic all shape the "Stillwater crime rate" in unique ways.
For anyone asking, "Is Stillwater safe?" the answer largely depends on where you are and how you engage with the community. Our detailed Stillwater crime map is the best way to uncover area-specific safety insights and make informed decisions, whether you're moving here, visiting, or just curious about "crime in Stillwater." Explore the map today to get a clearer picture of Stillwater safety and see how this Oklahoma gem measures up to your expectations.
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