Williamsburg, VA Crime Map

Williamsburg Crime Map: Safety and Crime Rates in Williamsburg, VA

Introduction to Crime in Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg, Virginia, is a historic gem with a population of 83,021, nestled in the heart of the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News metro area. Known for its colonial heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and significant role in American history, this city draws visitors and residents alike with its charm and educational opportunities. But how safe is Williamsburg? With a city-wide crime score of 0.136, Williamsburg ranks as very safe, earning an impressive 'A' grade on our safety scale. This means that overall, the city experiences lower crime rates compared to many other urban areas across the country.

Our analysis of 40 city blocks reveals a promising safety landscape: 70% of the city earns an 'A' grade for safety, 25% receives a 'B' (still considered safe), and only 5% falls into the 'C' category (average). Notably, no areas in Williamsburg are graded 'D' or 'F,' indicating that high-crime zones are virtually non-existent based on the data. Whether you're considering a move, planning a visit, or just curious about Williamsburg crime rates, our interactive Williamsburg crime map offers a detailed look at safety trends across the city.

Understanding Crime in Williamsburg

Williamsburg's overall crime index stands at 109, slightly above the national average of 100. This figure breaks down into a violent crime index of approximately 106 and a property crime index of around 112, suggesting that property crimes are a bit more prevalent than violent incidents. Among the crime types that exceed the national average are larceny/theft, burglary, vehicle theft, assault, and robbery. While these statistics indicate areas of concern, the overall low crime score reflects that these incidents are not as widespread or frequent as in many other cities of comparable size.

Crime distribution varies across the city, with certain parts experiencing more incidents than others. However, the majority of Williamsburg remains notably safe, with most areas benefiting from proactive community efforts and a strong sense of local pride. Compared to broader regional trends in Virginia, Williamsburg holds up well, often outperforming nearby urban centers in terms of safety. Nationally, while some crime categories are above average, the city's overall 'A' grade underscores that Williamsburg is a relatively secure place to live or visit. Dive into our Williamsburg crime map to explore how safety levels vary from block to block.

Factors Affecting Safety in Williamsburg

Economic Indicators

Economic conditions play a significant role in shaping safety trends, and Williamsburg presents a mixed picture. With a median household income of $59,288, the city falls slightly below the national median, though 29% of households earn over $100,000 annually. However, a poverty rate of 15.2% and an unemployment rate of 5.2% suggest that economic challenges exist for a portion of the population. These factors can sometimes correlate with higher incidences of property crimes like theft and burglary, which are among the categories above the national average in Williamsburg. Addressing these economic disparities could further enhance the city's already strong safety profile.

Population Density and Urban Patterns

With a population density of 649 people per square mile, Williamsburg is less densely packed than many urban centers, which can contribute to lower crime rates. The city's layout, with its blend of historic districts, educational hubs, and residential zones, fosters a community-oriented environment. Areas with higher foot traffic or commercial activity may see more reports of property crimes, while quieter, less populated zones often report fewer incidents. This variation underscores the importance of exploring specific safety data through tools like our interactive crime map.

Historical and Cultural Context

Williamsburg's unique identity as a living history museum, home to Colonial Williamsburg and a major university, shapes its social and safety dynamics. The city attracts a diverse mix of students, tourists, and long-term residents, creating a transient population that can influence crime patterns, particularly petty theft or vehicle-related incidents in busier areas. At the same time, the strong community focus on preserving history and fostering education contributes to a culture of vigilance and mutual care, which likely plays a role in keeping crime rates relatively low. This blend of history and modernity makes Williamsburg a standout in Virginia for safety and quality of life.

Living in Williamsburg

Cost of Living Overview

Living in Williamsburg comes with a cost of living index of 111, slightly above the national average of 100. Housing costs, with an index of 110, are a significant driver, reflecting the city's appeal and historical significance. Other expenses, such as food (105), healthcare (101), transportation (109), and utilities (103), are also marginally higher than average. For residents, this means budgeting carefully, especially with a median rent of $1,153 per month, which consumes about 37% of income for many renters—a notable burden.

Housing Market Snapshot

The housing market in Williamsburg offers a median home value of $336,173, which is higher than many areas in Virginia, reflecting the city's desirability and limited inventory due to its historical zoning. Homeownership stands at 52%, meaning a significant portion of residents rent, often due to the transient nature of the student population. Whether you're looking to buy or rent, understanding the safety of different parts of the city is crucial—our Williamsburg crime map can help you make informed decisions about where to settle.

Who Lives in Williamsburg?

Williamsburg's demographic profile is youthful, with a median age of just 26 years, largely influenced by the presence of a major university. The average family size is 3, and only 25% of households are married, reflecting a high number of single or student residents. Education levels are impressive, with 51% of residents holding a college degree. The average commute time of 18 minutes suggests a compact city with accessible job opportunities, while 7% of the population are veterans, adding to the community's diversity. This blend of young energy and historical reverence shapes Williamsburg's unique social fabric.

Climate and Environment in Williamsburg

Williamsburg experiences a temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from 48°F to 70°F across the year. Summers can be warm, with July highs reaching 88°F, while winters are chilly, with January lows dipping to 29°F. The city sees about 48 inches of rainfall annually and 14 inches of snowfall, making for a varied seasonal experience. One environmental concern is the elevated risk of hurricanes, with a risk index of 204 (compared to a national average of 100). While not directly tied to crime, natural disaster risks can impact safety planning, especially for property protection during storm seasons.

Using Our Interactive Williamsburg Crime Map

Curious about crime in Williamsburg, VA? Our interactive Williamsburg crime map is your go-to resource for understanding safety trends across the city. This tool provides a detailed breakdown of crime grades for each of the 40 analyzed city blocks, reflecting data on both violent and property crimes. Each area is assigned a grade from 'A' (safest) to 'F' (highest crime), helping you visualize where incidents are more or less frequent.

Interpreting the map is simple: areas with an 'A' or 'B' grade are considered safe or very safe, while a 'C' grade indicates average safety levels. Since no parts of Williamsburg fall into the 'D' or 'F' categories, you can feel confident that the city as a whole maintains a strong safety profile. Use the map to explore how safety varies across different zones, whether you're house-hunting, planning a move, or simply assessing your surroundings. Zoom in, click on specific blocks, and get a clearer picture of Williamsburg crime statistics at your fingertips.

Safety Tips and Awareness for Williamsburg Residents and Visitors

While Williamsburg is generally very safe, staying aware of local crime patterns can help you maintain peace of mind. Given that property crimes like larceny/theft, burglary, and vehicle theft are above the national average, securing your belongings is key. Always lock your car, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, and consider investing in home security measures if you're in an area with higher foot traffic. For personal safety, be mindful of your surroundings, especially during evening hours or in busier commercial zones where petty crimes may occur.

Violent crimes such as assault and robbery, though less common, are still reported above the national average. Stick to well-lit areas, travel in groups when possible, and trust your instincts if something feels off. For both residents and the many tourists who visit Williamsburg, staying informed through tools like our crime map can help you identify safer routes or areas to frequent. By taking these simple precautions, you can fully enjoy all that this historic city has to offer.

Conclusion: Is Williamsburg Safe?

In summary, Williamsburg, VA, stands out as a very safe city with a crime score of 0.136 and an 'A' grade overall. With 70% of the city earning the highest safety rating and no areas falling into high-crime categories, residents and visitors can feel confident in their surroundings. While certain crime types, including property crimes and some violent incidents, are slightly above the national average, the overall Williamsburg crime rate remains low compared to many urban centers. The city's unique blend of history, education, and community spirit further bolsters its appeal as a secure place to live or explore.

For anyone searching for detailed Williamsburg crime statistics or wondering "is Williamsburg safe," our interactive Williamsburg crime map is an essential tool. It offers block-by-block insights into safety trends, helping you make informed decisions about where to live, work, or visit. Take a moment to explore the map today and see for yourself why Williamsburg continues to be a standout destination for safety and quality of life in Virginia.