Shreveport, LA Crime Map

Shreveport Crime Map: Understanding Safety and Crime Rates in Louisiana's Third-Largest City

Introduction to Shreveport and Its Crime Landscape

Shreveport, Louisiana, with a population of 291,388, stands as the third-largest city in the state and a cultural hub in the northwest region. Nestled in Caddo Parish and part of the Shreveport-Bossier City metro area, this city is known for its rich history, vibrant music scene, and deep ties to the Red River. From its historic riverfront to its bustling downtown, Shreveport offers a unique blend of Southern charm and urban energy. But for residents and visitors alike, understanding safety is a key concern. If you're searching for a "Shreveport crime map" or wondering "is Shreveport safe," you've come to the right place.

Our comprehensive analysis reveals that Shreveport has an overall crime score of 0.348, earning it an above-average safety rating equivalent to a "B" grade. This score is derived from extensive data across 178 city blocks, providing a detailed look at crime patterns throughout the city. The distribution of safety grades shows significant variation: 37.1% of the city ranks as the safest with an "A" grade, 28.7% earns a "B" for safe, 10.7% falls into the average "C" category, 15.2% is below average with a "D," and 8.4% struggles with higher crime, receiving an "F." To get a clearer picture of where these trends play out, explore our interactive Shreveport crime map for block-by-block insights.

Understanding Crime in Shreveport

Shreveport's crime statistics paint a complex picture. With an overall crime index of 119 (where 100 represents the national average), the city experiences crime rates slightly above the norm. Breaking this down, the violent crime index sits at approximately 117, while the property crime index is higher at around 125. This indicates that property crimes such as larceny/theft, burglary, and vehicle theft are more prevalent concerns compared to violent offenses like assault and robbery, though both categories exceed national averages.

Safety levels vary widely across different parts of the city. Some areas enjoy a strong sense of security with minimal reported incidents, while others face more frequent challenges with theft and other property-related crimes. This disparity highlights the importance of understanding local trends when considering where to live or visit. Compared to other cities in Louisiana and the broader region, Shreveport's crime rate is moderate—neither the safest nor the most dangerous—but it requires awareness, especially for specific types of crime that stand out in the data.

Factors Influencing Safety in Shreveport

Economic Conditions

Economic factors play a significant role in shaping crime patterns in Shreveport. The median household income here is $40,809, notably below the national average, and nearly 24.9% of the population lives below the poverty line. With an unemployment rate of 7.1% and only 17% of households earning over $100,000 annually, financial stress can contribute to higher incidences of property crimes like theft and burglary. Addressing these economic disparities remains a key challenge for improving overall safety.

Population Density and Urban Layout

Shreveport's population density of 680 people per square mile reflects a mix of urban and suburban environments. Areas with higher density often see more frequent crime due to the proximity of people and opportunities for incidents like theft or vehicle break-ins. Conversely, less densely populated zones tend to report lower crime rates, though they aren't immune to issues. The city's layout, with its blend of historic districts and sprawling residential zones, means safety can shift dramatically over short distances.

Historical and Cultural Context

Shreveport has a storied past, from its days as a key port on the Red River to its role as a center for oil and gas in the early 20th century. This history has shaped a diverse community with deep cultural roots, evident in events like the annual Mudbug Madness festival celebrating Cajun culture. However, economic declines in certain periods have left lasting impacts, contributing to challenges like poverty and crime in parts of the city. Understanding this backdrop helps explain why safety varies so widely and why community efforts to revitalize and support local growth are critical.

Living in Shreveport: Lifestyle and Costs

Cost of Living

One of Shreveport's draws is its affordability, with an overall cost of living index of 85 (where 100 is the national average). Housing costs score at 91, food at 82, healthcare at 78, transportation at 86, and utilities at 96, making it a relatively budget-friendly place to live compared to many urban centers. This affordability can be a significant factor for families or individuals considering a move, though it's important to weigh these savings against safety concerns in certain areas.

Housing Market Snapshot

The housing market in Shreveport offers opportunities for both buyers and renters. The median home value is $146,986, with a homeownership rate of 54%. For renters, the median monthly rent is $827, though the rent burden—39% of income going toward rent—indicates financial strain for many. Whether you're looking to buy or rent, understanding local safety trends through tools like our Shreveport crime map can help you make informed decisions about where to settle.

Who Calls Shreveport Home?

Shreveport's demographic makeup reflects a diverse and family-oriented community. The median age is 36 years, and the average family size is 3.3. Only 36% of households are married, suggesting a mix of single individuals, young professionals, and families. About 26% of residents are college-educated, and the average commute time of 19 minutes indicates a relatively compact city for getting around. Veterans make up 8.2% of the population, reflecting a notable military presence and history in the region.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

Shreveport's climate is quintessentially Southern, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The average temperature ranges from 53°F to 76°F, with July highs reaching 94°F and January lows dipping to 34°F. The city sees substantial rainfall—about 53 inches annually—and minimal snowfall at just 2 inches. However, natural disaster risks are a concern, particularly with tornadoes (risk index of 259 compared to a national average of 100) and hail (risk index of 508). These environmental factors don't directly impact crime rates but can influence quality of life and emergency preparedness, which are worth considering alongside safety data.

Navigating Safety with Our Interactive Shreveport Crime Map

For anyone looking to understand "Shreveport LA crime" or specific "crime in Shreveport," our interactive crime map is an invaluable tool. This feature provides a detailed, block-by-block breakdown of safety across the city, using the crime grades from A (safest) to F (highest crime) mentioned earlier. You can zoom in to explore different parts of the city, see where crime types like burglary or assault are more common, and get a sense of the safety landscape that matters to you.

Interpreting the map is straightforward: areas with higher grades indicate lower crime rates and greater safety, while lower grades signal areas where caution is advised. Whether you're a potential resident, a current local, or just visiting, using this tool to check "Shreveport crime statistics" can guide your decisions about where to spend time or put down roots. Dive into the map today to uncover the patterns that statistics alone can't fully capture.

Safety Tips for Living in or Visiting Shreveport

Given Shreveport's crime rate and the prevalence of property crimes like larceny/theft, burglary, and vehicle theft, taking proactive steps can enhance your safety. Here are some practical tips tailored to the city's trends:

• Secure Your Property: Always lock doors and windows, whether at home or in your vehicle. Consider investing in a security system or visible deterrents like outdoor lighting to ward off potential burglars.
• Stay Aware in Public: With robbery and assault rates above the national average, remain vigilant in crowded or less-lit areas, especially at night. Travel in groups when possible and keep valuables out of sight.
• Protect Your Vehicle: Vehicle theft is a notable issue, so avoid leaving belongings in plain view inside your car. Park in well-lit, busy areas to reduce risk.
• Know Your Surroundings: Safety can vary significantly across short distances in Shreveport. Use our crime map to stay informed about the areas you frequent and adjust your habits accordingly.
• Community Engagement: Joining or supporting local initiatives can help address root causes of crime. Being an active part of the community fosters a safer environment for everyone.

Conclusion: Stay Informed with Shreveport's Crime Map

Shreveport, Louisiana, offers a unique mix of history, culture, and affordability, but like many cities, it faces challenges with crime. With an overall crime score of 0.348 (a "B" grade for above-average safety) and a crime index of 119, the city sits slightly above the national average, particularly for property crimes like theft and burglary. Safety varies widely across its 178 analyzed blocks, making localized awareness essential. Whether you're researching the "Shreveport crime rate" or asking "is Shreveport safe," understanding these patterns is the first step to making informed decisions.

Our interactive Shreveport crime map is your best resource for diving deeper into "crime in Shreveport." It offers a clear, detailed view of safety trends across the city, helping you navigate where to live, work, or explore. Take a moment to check out the map now and see how Shreveport's safety landscape aligns with your needs. Stay informed, stay safe, and let us help you uncover the full picture of "Shreveport safety" today.