Lawton, OK Crime Map

Lawton Crime Map: Safety Insights and Crime Rates in Lawton, OK

Introduction to Lawton and Its Safety Landscape

Nestled in the heart of Comanche County, Lawton, Oklahoma, is a vibrant city with a population of 90,487. Known for its deep military history tied to Fort Sill and its proximity to the stunning Wichita Mountains, Lawton offers a unique blend of small-town charm and urban accessibility. But how safe is Lawton? With a city average crime score of 0.251, translating to a B+ safety rating, Lawton presents a generally secure environment for residents and visitors. However, like any city, safety varies across different areas. Of the 67 city blocks analyzed, 44.8% earn the highest safety grade of A, while 32.8% fall into the B category, indicating a significant portion of the city is considered safe. Meanwhile, 17.9% are rated C (average), and just 4.5% receive a D grade for below-average safety. Notably, no areas fall into the high-crime F category. For a deeper dive into specific zones, explore our interactive Lawton crime map to see how safety ratings play out across the city.

Understanding Crime in Lawton

Lawton's overall crime index stands at 123, meaning crime rates here are about 23% higher than the national average (where 100 is the benchmark). Breaking this down, the violent crime index is approximately 124, and the property crime index is around 129, both indicating a moderate elevation compared to national figures. Specific crime types that exceed national averages include larceny/theft, burglary, vehicle theft, assault, and robbery. Property crimes, in particular, appear to be a more frequent concern than in many other cities of similar size, though violent incidents also contribute to the overall crime landscape. Despite these figures, it's encouraging that over 77% of the city's analyzed blocks are rated as safe or very safe, showing that many parts of Lawton remain secure for daily life.

Compared to broader regional trends in Oklahoma, Lawton's crime rates align with patterns often seen in mid-sized cities with diverse economic bases and transient populations, partly due to its military presence. Nationally, while Lawton's crime index is above average, the absence of any F-grade zones suggests that extreme high-crime pockets are not a defining feature here. Curious about how these statistics apply to specific areas? Our Lawton crime map offers a detailed, block-by-block breakdown to help you understand safety variations across the city.

Factors Influencing Safety in Lawton

Economic Conditions

Economic factors play a significant role in shaping safety trends in any city, and Lawton is no exception. With a median household income of $47,690—below the national average—and a poverty rate of 18.4%, financial stress can contribute to property-related crimes like theft and burglary, which are notably above national averages here. Additionally, an unemployment rate of 7.5% and a labor force participation rate of 64% suggest that a portion of the population faces employment challenges, which can correlate with crime in some urban settings. Addressing these economic disparities could be key to further improving safety across the city.

Population Density and Urban Layout

With a population density of 443 people per square mile, Lawton strikes a balance between crowded urban centers and sprawling rural areas. This moderate density means that while some parts of the city experience the hustle and bustle typical of busier zones—potentially leading to higher opportunities for crime—other areas remain quieter and less prone to incidents. The city's layout, influenced by its role as a military hub and its historical growth patterns, creates varied environments where safety can differ significantly from one block to the next. Check our interactive Lawton crime map to see how density and crime grades intersect in different parts of the city.

Historical and Cultural Context

Lawton's history as a military town, established in 1901 near Fort Sill, has shaped its identity and demographics. The presence of a large veteran population (17.6% of residents) and frequent turnover due to military assignments can influence community cohesion, which sometimes impacts crime rates. Additionally, the city's cultural diversity and proximity to natural attractions draw a mix of long-term residents and transient visitors, creating a dynamic social fabric. While this diversity enriches Lawton, it can also present challenges in maintaining consistent safety across all areas, as economic and social needs vary widely.

Living in Lawton: Lifestyle and Demographics

Lawton offers an affordable lifestyle, with a cost of living index of 91 (below the national average of 100). Housing costs are particularly reasonable, with a median home value of $110,594 and median rent at $810 per month, though renters do spend about 27% of their income on housing. Homeownership stands at 44%, reflecting a mix of renters and owners in the community. The city's demographic profile includes a median age of 32, younger than the national average, with an average family size of 3.2. About 40% of households are married, and 22% of residents hold a college degree. With an average commute time of just 16 minutes, getting around Lawton is relatively easy, making it a practical choice for families and working professionals alike.

The population here includes a significant number of veterans, reflecting the city's military ties, and the community is known for its resilience and adaptability. Whether you're a young family, a military member, or a retiree, Lawton offers a diverse environment—but safety remains a key consideration. Use our Lawton crime map to explore how different areas align with your lifestyle needs.

Climate and Environmental Considerations in Lawton

Lawton experiences a climate typical of the Great Plains, with hot summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 49°F to 75°F, with July highs reaching 96°F and January lows dipping to 27°F. The city sees about 32 inches of rainfall annually and a modest 9 inches of snowfall. However, natural disaster risks are a notable factor, with tornado risk rated at 166 (well above the national average of 100) and hail risk at a striking 647. These environmental hazards don't directly correlate with crime but can impact community preparedness and resource allocation, indirectly affecting safety. Residents should stay informed about weather alerts and emergency plans, especially during severe weather seasons.

Navigating Safety with Our Interactive Lawton Crime Map

Want to know exactly where safety stands in the parts of Lawton you're interested in? Our interactive Lawton crime map is your go-to tool for understanding crime rates and safety grades across the city. Covering 67 analyzed blocks, the map provides a visual breakdown of crime grades from A (safest) to D (below average), helping you see at a glance where risks are higher or lower. Each grade reflects a combination of violent and property crime data, giving you a comprehensive view of local safety. Whether you're house-hunting, planning a move, or just curious about crime in Lawton, OK, this map lets you zoom in on specific zones to make informed decisions. Start exploring now to get a clearer picture of the Lawton crime rate in areas that matter to you.

Safety Tips for Living in or Visiting Lawton

Given Lawton's crime statistics, with property crimes like larceny/theft, burglary, and vehicle theft above national averages, it's wise to prioritize home and vehicle security. Invest in sturdy locks, consider a security system, and avoid leaving valuables visible in your car. For personal safety, be mindful of your surroundings, especially in areas with higher foot traffic or during late hours, as assault and robbery rates are also elevated. Simple habits like traveling in groups, sticking to well-lit areas, and keeping emergency numbers handy can make a big difference.

Community awareness is another key to staying safe. Get to know the general vibe of different parts of the city by using our Lawton crime map, and stay updated on local trends. Lawton's crime rate may be above the national average, but with over three-quarters of the city rated as safe, proactive steps can help you enjoy all that this dynamic Oklahoma city has to offer without unnecessary worry.

Conclusion: Is Lawton Safe for You?

Lawton, Oklahoma, offers a unique mix of affordability, military heritage, and natural beauty, but like any city, safety is a critical factor to consider. With an overall crime index of 123—higher than the national average—and specific concerns around property crimes like burglary and vehicle theft, as well as violent crimes like assault, it's clear that caution is warranted in certain areas. However, the fact that 77.6% of Lawton's analyzed blocks are rated A or B for safety shows that much of the city remains a secure place to live, work, and visit. From economic challenges to environmental risks like tornadoes, various factors shape the Lawton crime rate, but understanding these dynamics can empower you to make smart choices.

For the most detailed and up-to-date insights on crime in Lawton, OK, dive into our interactive Lawton crime map. Whether you're exploring Lawton safety for a potential move or just researching local crime statistics, our tool provides the block-by-block data you need to feel confident. Explore the map today and see for yourself how safe Lawton can be for you and your loved ones.