Upper Darby, PA Crime Map

Upper Darby Crime Map: Safety and Crime Rates in Upper Darby, PA

Introduction to Upper Darby and Its Safety Landscape

Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, a bustling suburban township just west of Philadelphia, is home to a diverse population of 82,876 residents. Nestled in Delaware County within the sprawling Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington metro area, Upper Darby offers a unique blend of urban accessibility and suburban charm. With a population density of 4,089 people per square mile, this township is a vibrant community where history meets modernity, reflected in its cultural diversity and proximity to one of America's largest cities.

When it comes to safety, Upper Darby has a city average crime score of 0.302, which translates to an above-average safety rating, often considered a "B" grade on a typical scale. This indicates that, overall, the township is safer than many comparable areas, though safety levels vary across different parts. Our analysis of 31 city blocks reveals a crime score range from 0.07 in the safest zones to 0.83 in areas with higher crime activity. Curious about how safety looks in specific parts of town? Explore our interactive Upper Darby crime map to get a detailed, block-by-block breakdown.

Looking at the crime grade distribution across the township, 35.5% of Upper Darby earns an "A" grade for safety, while 41.9% falls into the "B" category, indicating safe to very safe conditions for a majority of the area. About 12.9% is rated "C" for average safety, and only 9.7% receives a "D" for below-average safety. Notably, no areas fall into the "F" category for high crime, which is a positive sign for residents and visitors alike.

Understanding Crime in Upper Darby

Upper Darby's overall crime index stands at 126, compared to a national average of 100, suggesting that crime rates here are somewhat higher than the typical American community. Breaking this down, the violent crime index is approximately 115, and the property crime index is around 116, both slightly above the national benchmark. This indicates that while Upper Darby is generally safe, there are specific types of crime to be mindful of.

Among the crime types that exceed national averages, larceny/theft, vehicle theft, and robbery stand out as more prevalent in Upper Darby. Property crimes like theft often drive the overall crime rate, impacting the township's index more than violent incidents. However, violent crimes such as robbery do occur at a rate higher than many might expect for a suburban area. Safety levels fluctuate across the township, with some zones enjoying remarkably low crime rates while others experience more frequent incidents. To understand how these trends play out in different parts of Upper Darby, our interactive crime map offers a clear, user-friendly way to explore the data.

Compared to the broader region, Upper Darby's crime rates align with patterns seen in other suburban areas near major urban centers like Philadelphia. The proximity to a large city can influence crime dynamics, as urban challenges sometimes spill over into surrounding communities. Nationally, Upper Darby's crime rate is slightly elevated, but it remains safer than many urban environments, offering a balance for those seeking suburban life with city access.

Factors Affecting Safety in Upper Darby

Economic Influences

Economic conditions play a significant role in shaping safety across any community, and Upper Darby is no exception. With a median household income of $57,655, the township sits below the national average, and 13.7% of residents live below the poverty line. Additionally, an unemployment rate of 6.6%—higher than the national average—can contribute to economic stress, which sometimes correlates with property crimes like theft. However, 26% of households earn over $100,000 annually, and a robust 70% labor force participation rate suggests a community with significant economic activity and resilience.

Population Density and Urban Proximity

Upper Darby's high population density of 4,089 per square mile creates a compact, urban-like environment in parts of the township, which can influence crime patterns. Densely populated areas often see higher rates of property crimes due to the sheer number of potential targets. Additionally, being part of the Philadelphia metro area means Upper Darby experiences some of the spillover effects of urban challenges, including crime trends that originate in the nearby city.

Historical and Cultural Context

Upper Darby has a rich history dating back to the 17th century, evolving from a rural settlement into a key suburban hub as Philadelphia grew. This history has fostered a diverse community, with cultural influences that shape daily life. Over time, economic shifts and urban expansion have brought both opportunities and challenges, including fluctuations in crime rates. The township's role as a gateway to Philadelphia means it often serves as a first stop for families and individuals seeking affordable housing near the city, which can impact social and safety dynamics.

Living in Upper Darby: Lifestyle and Demographics

Life in Upper Darby offers a blend of affordability and accessibility. The overall cost of living index is 81, compared to a national average of 100, making it a relatively budget-friendly place to live near a major city. Housing costs, with an index of 86, are a key factor in this affordability, with median home values at $149,980 and median rent at $1,043 per month. About 55% of residents own their homes, though renters face a rent burden of around 30% of their income, which is significant but not uncommon in the region.

Demographically, Upper Darby is a young and family-oriented community, with a median age of 35 years and an average family size of 3.3. About 42% of households are married, and 32% of residents hold a college degree. The average commute time of 34 minutes reflects the township's role as a commuter hub, with many residents working in Philadelphia or nearby areas. Veterans make up 4% of the population, adding to the township's diverse fabric.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

Upper Darby experiences a temperate climate typical of the Mid-Atlantic region, with average temperatures ranging from 46°F to 64°F. Summers can be warm, with July highs reaching 87°F, while winters are cold, dipping to 25°F in January. The area sees 46 inches of rainfall annually and about 21 inches of snowfall, which can impact daily life and safety during winter months. Notably, the township faces a slightly above-average risk for tornadoes, with a risk index of 114 compared to a national average of 100. Residents should stay prepared for severe weather events, especially during transitional seasons.

Using Our Interactive Upper Darby Crime Map

Navigating safety in Upper Darby is made easy with our interactive crime map, a powerful tool designed to help you understand crime trends at a granular level. This map provides detailed crime scores for each of the 31 analyzed blocks across the township, reflecting safety grades from "A" (safest) to "D" (below average). You'll see exactly where crime rates are lowest and where incidents are more frequent, allowing you to make informed decisions whether you're moving to the area, planning a visit, or just curious about local safety.

Interpreting the crime grades is straightforward: areas with an "A" or "B" grade are generally very safe to safe, while "C" and "D" grades indicate average to below-average safety with a higher likelihood of incidents. The map visually represents these differences, so you can quickly spot patterns and trends. We encourage you to dive into the Upper Darby crime map today to explore how safety varies across the township and find the information most relevant to you.

Safety Tips for Upper Darby Residents and Visitors

Given Upper Darby's crime statistics, staying aware and proactive is key to maintaining personal safety. Since larceny/theft and vehicle theft are more common here than the national average, always secure your belongings, especially in crowded or high-traffic areas. Lock your car doors, avoid leaving valuables visible, and consider using anti-theft devices for added protection. For homes, installing security systems or even simple measures like motion-sensor lights can deter potential break-ins.

Robbery, another crime type above the national average, underscores the importance of personal awareness. Stick to well-lit, populated areas when walking at night, and trust your instincts if a situation feels unsafe. For families and individuals alike, discussing safety plans and staying informed about local trends can make a big difference. Remember, our Upper Darby crime map is an excellent resource for identifying areas where extra caution might be warranted.

Conclusion: Navigating Safety with the Upper Darby Crime Map

Upper Darby, PA, offers a compelling mix of suburban affordability and urban proximity, but like any community, it has its share of safety challenges. With an overall crime score of 0.302 and a "B" grade for above-average safety, much of the township—77.4% to be exact—falls into safe or very safe categories. However, with crime indices above the national average (126 overall) and specific concerns like theft and robbery, understanding the Upper Darby crime rate and safety landscape is crucial for residents and visitors alike.

Whether you're wondering, "Is Upper Darby safe?" or searching for detailed Upper Darby crime statistics, our interactive Upper Darby crime map is your go-to resource. It breaks down crime in Upper Darby by block, offering insights into where safety shines and where caution is needed. Take a moment to explore the map now and get a clearer picture of Upper Darby safety tailored to your needs.