Burlington, NC Crime Map

Explore crime rates, safest neighborhoods, and detailed crime statistics

Crime Map Legend

About Burlington

Burlington, NC

City Crime Score

Low crime

A-

Population

85,233

Median Income

$59,556

Median Home Value

$234,074

Median Age

41.0

Crime Statistics

Assault
112
Robbery
109
Burglary
116
Larceny/Theft
122
Vehicle Theft
116

Demographics

White: 60.1%
Black: 26.9%
Hispanic: 15.0%
Asian: 2.0%

22.2% have a bachelor's degree or higher

Housing

Owners: 56.8%
Renters: 43.2%

Burlington Crime Map: Safety Insights and Statistics for Burlington, NC

Introduction to Burlington, NC, and Its Safety Landscape

Nestled in the heart of Alamance County, Burlington, North Carolina, is a vibrant city with a population of 137,096. Known for its rich history as a textile hub and its welcoming community spirit, Burlington offers a blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences. With a population density of 699 people per square mile, the city strikes a balance between urban accessibility and suburban comfort. But how safe is Burlington, NC, for residents and visitors? Whether you're exploring the city's historic downtown or considering a move here, understanding the local crime landscape is essential. Our comprehensive Burlington crime map provides detailed insights to help you navigate safety in this dynamic city.

Burlington's overall crime score is 0.249, earning it a safety grade of B+, which indicates it is generally a safe place to live compared to many other cities. However, crime levels vary across the city, with scores ranging from 0 in the safest areas to 0.8 in higher-risk zones. Of the 59 city blocks analyzed, a significant 57.6% fall into the Grade A (safest) category, while 15.3% are Grade B, 10.2% are Grade C, 16.9% are Grade D, and none are classified as Grade F (high crime). This distribution suggests that while most of Burlington is safe, there are pockets where extra caution may be warranted. Dive into our interactive crime map to explore these variations in detail and see how safety aligns with your areas of interest.

Understanding Crime in Burlington, NC

When evaluating the Burlington crime rate, it's important to break down the types of crime impacting the city. Burlington's overall crime index stands at 118, meaning it is slightly above the national average of 100. This is reflected in both violent and property crime indices, which are approximately 114 and 118, respectively. Specific crime types that exceed the national average include larceny/theft, burglary, vehicle theft, assault, and robbery. Property crimes, such as theft and burglary, tend to be more prevalent than violent crimes, though both categories contribute to the city's safety profile.

Across Burlington, safety levels fluctuate depending on various urban and socioeconomic factors. Some parts of the city enjoy remarkably low crime rates, offering peaceful environments for families and individuals. In contrast, other areas experience higher incidences of crime, often tied to economic challenges or denser populations. Compared to national averages, Burlington's crime statistics show room for improvement, but the city remains safer than many urban centers of similar size in the region. For a closer look at how these patterns play out geographically, our Burlington crime map offers a block-by-block breakdown of safety grades.

Factors Affecting Safety in Burlington

Economic Indicators and Crime

Economic conditions often play a significant role in shaping crime trends, and Burlington is no exception. With a median household income of $45,587, the city falls below the national average, and 19.1% of residents live below the poverty line. Additionally, the unemployment rate stands at 6%, slightly higher than many comparable areas, while labor force participation is at 63%. These economic pressures can contribute to property crimes like theft and burglary, which are among the most common issues in Burlington. Addressing these root causes through community programs and economic development could help improve safety over time.

Population Density and Urban Patterns

Burlington's population density of 699 people per square mile creates a mix of bustling urban zones and quieter residential stretches. Areas with higher density often see increased crime due to more opportunities for theft or interpersonal conflicts. Conversely, less crowded parts of the city tend to report fewer incidents. Understanding these patterns can help residents and visitors make informed decisions about where to spend their time or settle down. Our interactive tools provide a way to visualize how density correlates with crime scores across the city.

Historical and Cultural Context

Burlington's history as a textile manufacturing center has shaped its identity and economic trajectory. Once a thriving industrial hub, the city faced challenges as the textile industry declined, leading to economic shifts that still impact certain segments of the population. This historical context contributes to the socioeconomic disparities that can influence crime rates. However, Burlington's strong sense of community, evident in local festivals and civic pride, fosters resilience and a collective commitment to safety. These cultural strengths are an asset in combating crime and building a brighter future for the city.

Living in Burlington, NC

Cost of Living Overview

For those considering a move to Burlington, affordability is a key draw. The city's overall cost of living index is 93, below the national average of 100. Housing costs are particularly reasonable, with an index of 96, while other essentials like food (92), healthcare (91), and transportation (94) also remain budget-friendly. Utilities match the national average at 100. This lower cost of living makes Burlington an attractive option for families, young professionals, and retirees alike, though it's important to weigh these benefits against safety considerations using our Burlington crime statistics.

Housing Market Snapshot

The housing market in Burlington offers accessible options for buyers and renters. The median home value is $135,246, significantly lower than many other parts of North Carolina, with a home ownership rate of 54%. For renters, the median rent is $823 per month, though rent burden—measuring the percentage of income spent on rent—is at 28%, indicating some financial strain for lower-income households. Whether you're looking to buy or rent, understanding the safety of different parts of the city can guide your housing decisions. Explore our crime map to see how safety aligns with housing options.

Who Lives in Burlington?

Burlington's demographic profile reflects a diverse and family-oriented community. The median age is 39 years, and the average family size is 3.1, suggesting a mix of young families and established households. About 39% of households are married, and 26% of residents hold a college degree. The average commute time is a manageable 22 minutes, making Burlington a practical choice for workers. Additionally, 6.1% of the population are veterans, contributing to the city's strong sense of community. This demographic blend shapes the city's culture and influences local safety dynamics.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

Burlington experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, offering residents a variety of weather throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 47°F to 71°F, with summer highs reaching 89°F in July and winter lows dropping to 28°F in January. The city receives 46 inches of rainfall annually and about 9 inches of snowfall, creating a generally mild environment. However, Burlington faces an above-average risk for hurricanes, with a risk index of 170 (compared to the national average of 100). Natural disasters can indirectly affect safety by disrupting infrastructure or straining resources, so it's worth considering these factors alongside crime data when planning your life in Burlington.

Using Our Interactive Burlington Crime Map

Curious about crime in Burlington, NC? Our interactive crime map is your go-to resource for understanding safety across the city. This tool provides a detailed view of crime grades for each of the 59 blocks analyzed, ranging from A (safest) to D (below average). You can explore how safety varies across different parts of Burlington, helping you identify areas that align with your comfort level. The map is user-friendly: simply zoom in to see block-level data, review crime scores, and understand the types of incidents most common in each zone. Whether you're house-hunting, planning a visit, or just curious, our Burlington crime map empowers you with actionable insights.

Interpreting the crime grades is straightforward. A Grade A area indicates minimal crime and high safety, while a Grade D area suggests more frequent incidents and a need for greater caution. Since crime types like larceny/theft and burglary are above the national average in Burlington, the map can help you pinpoint where these issues are more likely to occur. Take a few minutes to explore the tool and see how safety patterns match up with your needs or interests in the city.

Safety Tips and Awareness for Burlington Residents and Visitors

While Burlington is generally safe with a B+ crime score, staying vigilant is always a good idea, especially given the higher-than-average rates of certain crimes. Property crimes like burglary and vehicle theft are more common, so securing your home with strong locks, outdoor lighting, and alarm systems can make a big difference. When out and about, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in your car, and park in well-lit, busy areas whenever possible. These simple steps can help protect you from the most prevalent issues in Burlington.

For violent crimes such as assault and robbery, which also exceed national averages, personal awareness is key. Stick to well-populated areas during late hours, travel in groups if possible, and trust your instincts if a situation feels unsafe. Staying informed about local crime trends through our interactive map can also help you avoid higher-risk zones and make smarter decisions about where to spend your time. Safety is a shared responsibility, and small precautions can go a long way in Burlington.

Conclusion: Is Burlington, NC, Safe for You?

Burlington, North Carolina, offers a compelling mix of affordability, community spirit, and historical charm, but like any city, its safety landscape varies. With an overall crime score of 0.249 (B+ grade) and a crime index of 118, Burlington sits slightly above the national average for both violent and property crimes. However, the majority of the city—over 57%—falls into the safest category, making it a generally secure place to live, work, or visit. From economic challenges to climate risks like hurricanes, various factors shape the Burlington crime rate, and understanding them can help you navigate the city with confidence.

Whether you're a longtime resident or considering a move, our Burlington crime map is an invaluable tool for exploring safety in detail. Curious about is Burlington safe in specific areas? Want to see how crime statistics align with housing or lifestyle options? Spend a few minutes with our interactive map to get a clear picture of Burlington NC crime and make informed decisions. Your safety matters, and we're here to help you understand the full scope of crime in Burlington with accurate, up-to-date data.