Weirton, WV Crime Map
Explore crime rates, safest neighborhoods, and detailed crime statistics
Weirton Crime Map: Safety Insights and Statistics for West Virginia's Steel City
Introduction to Weirton, WV: A Safe Small City with Deep Roots
Nestled in the northern panhandle of West Virginia, Weirton is a community of 65,447 residents with a rich industrial history tied to steel production. Part of the Weirton-Steubenville metro area, this city offers a small-town feel with a population density of 394 people per square mile. Known for its hardworking spirit and scenic location near the Ohio River, Weirton is a place where many families and retirees call home. But how safe is Weirton, WV? With a city-wide crime score of 0.045, Weirton earns a "Very Safe" rating with an A grade, positioning it as one of the safer places to live in the region. In this guide, we'll dive into Weirton's crime statistics, safety trends, and local context, helping you understand the city's safety landscape. Explore our interactive Weirton crime map to see detailed insights tailored to specific areas.
Understanding Crime in Weirton: A Closer Look at the Numbers
Weirton's overall crime index stands at 86, well below the national average of 100, indicating a lower crime rate compared to many other American cities. Breaking it down further, the violent crime index is around 88, and the property crime index is approximately 90, both suggesting that crime levels are generally manageable. Across the 19 city blocks we analyzed, an impressive 89.5% of Weirton earns an A grade for safety, with the remaining 10.5% receiving a B grade. Notably, no parts of the city fall into the average or below-average safety categories, with crime scores ranging from 0 in the safest zones to 0.32 in areas with slightly higher incidents.
While Weirton is largely safe, certain types of crime, like vehicle theft, occur at rates above the national average. Property crimes tend to outpace violent crimes, though both remain lower than in many urban centers across the country. Compared to regional trends in West Virginia and neighboring Ohio, Weirton holds up as a relatively secure community, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing safety. Curious about how safety varies across the city? Our Weirton crime map provides a block-by-block breakdown to help you explore further.
Factors Influencing Safety in Weirton
Economic Landscape and Its Impact
Economics often play a significant role in crime trends, and Weirton's financial profile offers some insight. With a median household income of $50,822, the city sits below the national average, and 11.5% of residents live below the poverty line. Unemployment is relatively high at 8.4%, which can sometimes correlate with petty crimes like theft. However, 14% of households earn over $100,000 annually, showing a diversity of economic experiences. These mixed economic indicators suggest that while some areas may face challenges, the community's overall stability helps keep crime rates low.
Population Density and Urban Layout
Weirton's moderate population density of 394 people per square mile means it avoids the overcrowding often associated with higher crime in larger cities. The city's layout, with its blend of residential zones and industrial history, creates a spread-out feel that can reduce opportunities for crime. This spacing, combined with a strong sense of community, likely contributes to the high safety grades seen in our Weirton crime rate analysis.
Historical and Cultural Context
Weirton's identity as a steel town has shaped its culture and resilience. Founded around the steel industry in the early 20th century, the city has faced economic ups and downs as manufacturing declined. Yet, the tight-knit nature of the community, with many multi-generational families, fosters a protective environment. Annual events and local traditions strengthen neighborly bonds, which often act as a natural deterrent to crime. This historical backdrop helps explain why Weirton maintains such a strong safety profile despite economic challenges.
Living in Weirton: Lifestyle and Cost of Living
For those considering a move to Weirton, understanding the cost of living and lifestyle is just as important as knowing the Weirton crime statistics. The overall cost of living index is 110, slightly above the national average of 100, driven by categories like housing (111), healthcare (112), and utilities (111). Despite this, Weirton remains affordable compared to many urban areas, with a median home value of $94,144 and a homeownership rate of 66%. Renters pay a median of $649 per month, with rent consuming about 25% of income on average, which is reasonable for most households.
Demographically, Weirton is home to a median age of 45, reflecting a mature population with a significant retiree presence. The average family size is 3, and 45% of households are married, painting a picture of a family-oriented community. With 21% of residents holding a college degree and an average commute time of 23 minutes, Weirton offers a slower-paced life with access to nearby employment hubs. Veterans make up 11.1% of the population, adding to the city's proud, service-minded ethos. Safety concerns? Check our Weirton crime map for a detailed view of the city's safest areas.
Climate and Environment in Weirton
Weirton experiences a classic four-season climate, with average temperatures ranging from 41°F to 62°F. Summers peak at around 84°F in July, while winters can dip to a chilly 20°F in January. The area sees about 40 inches of rainfall annually and a hefty 76 inches of snowfall, which can impact daily life during winter months. While natural disasters like flooding or severe storms are possible due to the proximity to the Ohio River and heavy seasonal weather, they are not frequent enough to be a primary safety concern. Still, residents should stay prepared for winter weather challenges when considering Weirton's overall livability alongside its crime rates.
Using Our Interactive Weirton Crime Map
Want to know more about crime in Weirton, WV? Our interactive Weirton crime map is your go-to tool for exploring safety on a granular level. Covering all 19 analyzed city blocks, the map displays crime scores ranging from 0 (safest) to 0.32 (highest), with color-coded grades from A to B reflecting the safety distribution. You can zoom in to see how safety trends shift across different parts of the city, helping you make informed decisions whether you're relocating, visiting, or just curious.
Interpreting the map is simple: areas with an A grade (89.5% of Weirton) are the safest, with minimal reported incidents, while B-grade zones (10.5%) still indicate above-average safety but with slightly more activity. The map focuses on both violent and property crimes, giving you a comprehensive view. We encourage you to explore the Weirton crime map yourself to uncover detailed insights and find the safest spots for your needs.
Safety Tips for Living in or Visiting Weirton
Even with Weirton's strong safety record, staying vigilant is always wise. Given that vehicle theft rates are above the national average, securing your car is a top priority. Always lock your vehicle, avoid leaving valuables inside, and park in well-lit or busy areas when possible. Property crimes, while not rampant, are more common than violent incidents, so investing in basic home security measures like sturdy locks or motion-sensor lights can provide peace of mind.
For personal safety, stick to well-traveled areas during late hours, and keep an eye on your surroundings, especially in zones with slightly higher crime scores as shown on our Weirton crime map. The community's friendly nature means neighbors often look out for each other, so building connections can enhance your safety network. Whether you're a resident or just passing through, these simple steps align with Weirton's crime patterns and help ensure a secure experience.
Conclusion: Is Weirton Safe for You?
Weirton, West Virginia, stands out as a safe, affordable community with a crime score of 0.045 and an A grade for safety across most of the city. With 89.5% of areas rated as the safest possible and a crime index of 86 (below the national average), Weirton offers a secure environment for families, retirees, and newcomers alike. While challenges like vehicle theft exist, the city's low violent and property crime rates, combined with its tight-knit community and industrial heritage, make it a compelling place to live. From its snowy winters to its modest cost of living, Weirton balances small-town charm with practical safety.
Ready to dive deeper into Weirton's safety landscape? Our interactive Weirton crime map is the best way to explore detailed crime statistics and safety grades across the city. Whether you're searching for "Weirton crime rate" or wondering "is Weirton safe," this tool provides the insights you need to make informed decisions. Check it out today and see why Weirton, WV, remains a hidden gem for safety and livability in West Virginia.
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