Murfreesboro, TN Crime Map

Explore crime rates, safest neighborhoods, and detailed crime statistics

Crime Map Legend

About Murfreesboro

Murfreesboro, TN

City Crime Score

Very low crime

A

Population

200,082

Median Income

$77,542

Median Home Value

$411,749

Median Age

34.0

Crime Statistics

Assault
85
Robbery
103
Burglary
101
Larceny/Theft
101
Vehicle Theft
95

Demographics

White: 75.4%
Black: 14.5%
Hispanic: 6.0%
Asian: 3.9%

34.7% have a bachelor's degree or higher

Housing

Owners: 60.7%
Renters: 39.3%

Murfreesboro Crime Map & Safety Guide: Is Murfreesboro Safe?

Introduction to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and Its Safety Landscape

Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Murfreesboro is a vibrant city with a population of 169,243, making it one of the fastest-growing communities in the state. Known for its rich history as the geographic center of Tennessee and its proximity to the bustling Nashville metro area, Murfreesboro offers a blend of small-town charm and urban convenience. With a population density of 869 people per square mile, the city strikes a balance between suburban sprawl and denser urban pockets. But how does this dynamic city fare when it comes to safety? If you're searching for a detailed Murfreesboro crime map or wondering "is Murfreesboro safe," you've come to the right place.

Our comprehensive analysis reveals that Murfreesboro has an impressive city average crime score of 0.12, earning it a "Very Safe" rating with a Grade A designation. This score reflects a generally secure environment compared to national benchmarks. Across the 78 city blocks we've analyzed, the crime grade distribution paints an encouraging picture: 74.4% of the city scores in the safest category (Grade A), 17.9% earns a safe Grade B, 5.1% falls into the average Grade C range, and just 2.6% is rated below average with a Grade D. Notably, no areas in Murfreesboro received the lowest Grade F rating. For a deeper dive into specific zones, explore our interactive Murfreesboro crime map to see how safety varies across the city.

Understanding Crime in Murfreesboro, TN

When evaluating the Murfreesboro crime rate, it's helpful to break down the data into violent and property crime categories. The city's overall crime index stands at 88, which is below the national average of 100, indicating a safer-than-average environment. However, a closer look shows a violent crime index of approximately 95, hovering near the national benchmark, while the property crime index is slightly higher at around 102, suggesting a marginally elevated risk for certain property offenses.

Among property crimes, larceny/theft and burglary rates are somewhat above national averages, alongside robbery within the violent crime category. Despite these specific areas of concern, the overall risk remains low, especially given that the vast majority of the city falls into the safest crime grade categories. Safety levels do vary across different parts of Murfreesboro, with some sections experiencing higher incidents of property-related issues compared to others that remain remarkably secure. To get a clearer picture of where these trends apply, check out our detailed Murfreesboro TN crime map.

Compared to the broader region, Murfreesboro holds up well as a relatively safe hub within the Nashville metro area. While larger urban centers nearby may grapple with higher crime indices, Murfreesboro benefits from its balanced mix of residential and commercial development, contributing to its favorable safety profile.

Factors Affecting Safety in Murfreesboro

Economic Influences on Crime

Economic conditions often play a significant role in shaping a city's safety landscape, and Murfreesboro is no exception. With a median household income of $60,683, the city sits slightly below the national median, though 28% of households earn over $100,000 annually, reflecting a solid middle-class presence. However, a poverty rate of 13% and an unemployment rate of 4.9% indicate that some residents face financial challenges, which can correlate with property crime trends like theft or burglary. Still, a strong labor force participation rate of 72% suggests a community driven by work and opportunity, likely contributing to the overall low crime in Murfreesboro.

Population Density and Urban Layout

Murfreesboro's population density of 869 per square mile means it's less crowded than major urban centers but still faces the challenges of a growing city. Areas with higher concentrations of people and businesses can sometimes see elevated rates of petty theft or other property crimes due to increased opportunities for such incidents. Conversely, more spread-out residential zones tend to report lower crime activity, contributing to the city's high percentage of Grade A safety ratings.

Historical and Cultural Context

Murfreesboro's history as a key site during the Civil War and its evolution into a modern educational and economic hub, anchored by institutions like Middle Tennessee State University, shapes its community dynamics. The presence of a large student population and a focus on family-friendly living fosters a culture of engagement and vigilance, which may help deter crime. This blend of historical significance and forward-looking growth likely plays a role in maintaining the city's reputation as a safe place to live.

Living in Murfreesboro: Lifestyle and Affordability

Beyond safety, understanding what it's like to live in Murfreesboro can help potential residents or visitors make informed decisions. The cost of living index here is 97, just below the national average of 100, making it a relatively affordable place to call home. Housing costs, with an index of 98, align closely with this trend—median home values are around $256,428, and the homeownership rate stands at 52%. For renters, the median monthly rent is $1,095, though 30% of income going toward rent indicates a moderate burden for some households.

Demographically, Murfreesboro is a young and diverse city with a median age of 31 years. The average family size is 3.2, and 44% of households are married, reflecting a mix of young families and single professionals. Education levels are notable, with 39% of residents holding a college degree, and the average commute time of 27 minutes suggests reasonable access to jobs and amenities within or near the Nashville metro area. Veterans make up 6.3% of the population, adding to the community's diverse fabric.

Climate and Environmental Considerations in Murfreesboro

Murfreesboro's climate is characteristic of Middle Tennessee, with a temperate range that sees average temperatures between 47°F and 70°F annually. Summers can be hot and humid, with July highs reaching 89°F, while winters are chilly, dipping to a January low of 28°F. The city receives about 55 inches of rainfall each year and a modest 10 inches of snowfall, which rarely disrupts daily life. While natural disasters like tornadoes are a consideration in this region, Murfreesboro's inland location offers some buffer from more severe weather events compared to coastal areas. Environmental factors can indirectly influence safety, as extreme weather may strain resources or impact crime patterns during recovery periods.

Using Our Interactive Murfreesboro Crime Map

For those seeking detailed insights into Murfreesboro crime statistics, our interactive crime map is an invaluable tool. Covering all 78 analyzed city blocks, the map provides a visual breakdown of safety grades from A (safest) to D (below average), helping you understand how different parts of the city compare. Each grade reflects a combination of violent and property crime data, adjusted for local and national trends, so you can easily interpret the relative risk in various zones.

Whether you're planning a move, choosing a place to rent, or simply curious about Murfreesboro safety, our map allows you to zoom in on specific areas and explore crime patterns at a granular level. We encourage you to spend some time with this resource to get a personalized view of the city's safety landscape and make informed decisions based on the most current data available.

Safety Tips and Awareness for Murfreesboro Residents and Visitors

While Murfreesboro is generally a safe city, staying aware of local crime trends and practicing basic precautions can enhance your security. Given the slightly elevated rates of larceny/theft and burglary compared to national averages, it's wise to secure personal property, especially in busier commercial or high-traffic zones. Simple steps like locking doors, using outdoor lighting, and avoiding leaving valuables in plain sight can go a long way in preventing property crimes.

For violent crime concerns like robbery, which also trends slightly above average, remain vigilant in less familiar or crowded settings, particularly during late hours. Stick to well-lit areas, travel in groups when possible, and trust your instincts if a situation feels off. Additionally, staying informed through tools like our Murfreesboro crime map ensures you're aware of any shifting patterns in the city's safety dynamics.

  • Secure your home with sturdy locks and, if possible, a security system.
  • Be mindful of personal belongings in public spaces to deter theft.
  • Avoid isolated areas at night and stay aware of your surroundings.
  • Keep emergency contacts handy and know local resources for assistance.

Conclusion: Navigating Safety with the Murfreesboro Crime Map

In summary, Murfreesboro, Tennessee, stands out as a generally safe city with a crime score of 0.12 and a Grade A rating, reflecting a secure environment for its 169,243 residents. With 74.4% of the city earning the highest safety grade and no areas falling into the high-crime category, it's clear that crime in Murfreesboro is well below concerning levels for most. However, slight elevations in property crimes like larceny/theft and burglary, as well as robbery, highlight the importance of staying proactive about personal safety.

Whether you're a long-time resident, a student, or considering a move to this historic yet growing Tennessee city, understanding the Murfreesboro crime rate is key to feeling confident in your surroundings. Our interactive Murfreesboro crime map offers the most detailed and user-friendly way to explore safety trends across different parts of the city. Take a moment to dive into the data, see how safety varies block by block, and empower yourself with the knowledge to make informed choices about living or visiting Murfreesboro.