Urbandale, IA Crime Map

Urbandale Crime Map: Safety and Crime Rates in Urbandale, IA

Introduction to Urbandale and Its Safety Profile

Nestled in the heart of Polk County, Urbandale, Iowa, is a vibrant suburban community with a population of 43,879. As part of the Des Moines-West Des Moines metro area, this city offers a blend of small-town charm and urban accessibility, making it a popular choice for families and professionals alike. With a population density of 752 people per square mile, Urbandale provides a comfortable balance between spacious living and community connectivity.

When it comes to safety, Urbandale stands out as an exceptionally secure place to live. The city boasts an impressive average crime score of 0.018, earning it a "Very Safe" rating with a Grade A designation. Analyzing crime data across 24 city blocks, we found that 100% of Urbandale falls into the Grade A category, indicating consistently low crime levels throughout the area. Whether you're considering a move or just curious about the Urbandale crime rate, this guide will provide a comprehensive look at safety in the city, alongside insights into living here and how to explore our detailed Urbandale crime map.

Understanding Crime in Urbandale, IA

Urbandale's overall crime index stands at 50, meaning it is significantly safer than the national average of 100. This low crime rate reflects the city's strong community focus and effective safety measures. Breaking it down further, the violent crime index is approximately 53, while the property crime index is around 63—both well below national benchmarks. This suggests that incidents such as assaults or thefts are relatively rare compared to other cities of similar size across the country.

Unlike larger urban centers where safety can vary dramatically from one area to another, Urbandale maintains a uniform level of security across its expanse. The data shows no pockets of concern, with every analyzed block falling into the safest category. Compared to regional trends in the Midwest, where some cities grapple with higher property crime due to economic disparities, Urbandale remains a standout for its consistently low crime statistics. For those searching for "is Urbandale safe," the numbers paint a reassuring picture.

Factors Influencing Safety in Urbandale

Economic Stability

One of the key contributors to Urbandale's low crime rate is its robust economic foundation. With a median household income of $95,961, nearly half of households (47%) earn over $100,000 annually. The poverty rate is remarkably low at 5.4%, and unemployment stands at just 3.9%, with a labor force participation rate of 73%. These figures indicate a financially stable community, which often correlates with reduced crime as economic stress and desperation are minimized.

Population and Urban Design

Urbandale's moderate population density of 752 per square mile fosters a close-knit community feel without the overcrowding that can sometimes lead to higher crime in denser urban environments. The city's layout, with ample green spaces and well-planned residential zones, supports a lifestyle where residents feel connected and secure, further contributing to the overall safety landscape.

Historical and Cultural Context

Urbandale has long been known as a family-friendly suburb with a strong emphasis on community values. Historically, it evolved from a small farming area into a thriving residential hub, drawing in professionals working in the nearby Des Moines metro area. This growth has been accompanied by a cultural commitment to safety and quality of life, evident in local initiatives and community engagement that help keep crime rates low. The city's reputation as a safe haven in Iowa is well-earned and continues to attract new residents seeking stability.

Living in Urbandale: What to Expect

Living in Urbandale offers a high quality of life, though it comes with a slightly elevated cost of living, with an overall index of 123 compared to the national average of 100. Housing costs are a significant factor, with a median home value of $242,469 and a home ownership rate of 78%. For renters, the median rent is $944 per month, with rent burden accounting for about 22% of income—a manageable figure for most households given the strong local incomes.

The demographic makeup of Urbandale reflects a family-oriented community, with a median age of 39 years and an average family size of 3.1. About 61% of households are married, and 49% of residents hold a college degree, pointing to an educated and stable population. The average commute time of 19 minutes also makes Urbandale an attractive option for those working in the broader metro area. Additionally, 6.5% of the population are veterans, adding to the community's diverse yet cohesive fabric.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

Urbandale experiences a classic Midwestern climate, with an average temperature range of 39°F to 60°F. Summers can reach highs of 86°F in July, while winters drop to lows of 11°F in January. The city sees about 34 inches of rainfall and 33 inches of snowfall annually, so residents are accustomed to preparing for a full range of weather conditions. One notable environmental risk is tornadoes, with a risk index of 202 compared to the national average of 100. While this is a consideration for safety planning, it does not detract from the overall secure feel of the city when it comes to crime-related concerns.

Explore Safety with Our Interactive Urbandale Crime Map

For a deeper dive into Urbandale's safety landscape, our interactive Urbandale crime map is an invaluable tool. This resource allows you to explore crime data across different parts of the city, with detailed visualizations of crime grades and incident patterns. Each block we've analyzed is assigned a grade from A (safest) to F (highest crime), helping you understand the safety dynamics in a granular way.

Using the map is simple: zoom in to see how safety ratings are distributed, hover over areas for specific statistics, and use the filters to focus on violent or property crime trends. While the city as a whole scores exceptionally well, our map provides the most up-to-date and comprehensive view of Urbandale crime statistics. Whether you're a resident, potential mover, or just researching "crime in Urbandale," this tool is designed to give you the insights you need. Take a moment to explore it now and see why Urbandale consistently ranks as a safe place to call home.

Safety Tips for Residents and Visitors in Urbandale

Even in a city as safe as Urbandale, staying aware and proactive about personal security is always a good practice. Given the low crime indices, the focus here is more on prevention than reaction. For property crime, which has a slightly higher index of 63 compared to violent crime at 53, consider basic measures like securing your home with quality locks and alarm systems, especially if you're away for extended periods during Iowa's harsh winters.

For personal safety, be mindful when out during late hours, even in a low-risk environment. Simple habits like parking in well-lit areas and keeping valuables out of sight in vehicles can go a long way. Additionally, given the area's tornado risk, ensure you're familiar with local emergency protocols and have a plan in place for severe weather events. Staying informed about Urbandale safety trends through tools like our crime map can also help you remain vigilant without worry.

Conclusion: Why Urbandale Stands Out for Safety

Urbandale, IA, is a shining example of suburban safety, with a crime score of 0.018 and a uniform Grade A rating across all analyzed blocks. Whether you're searching for "Urbandale crime rate" or wondering "is Urbandale safe," the data is clear: this city offers a secure environment supported by strong economic indicators, a family-friendly demographic, and a community-focused culture. From its low crime indices of 50 overall (compared to a national average of 100) to its high quality of life, Urbandale is a standout choice for those prioritizing safety in the Midwest.

To get the most detailed and personalized view of crime in Urbandale, we encourage you to dive into our interactive Urbandale crime map. It's the best way to explore Urbandale crime statistics and understand the safety landscape as you plan your next steps—whether that's moving, visiting, or simply staying informed. Check out the map today and see for yourself why Urbandale continues to be recognized for its exceptional safety record.