How Safe Is Dallas, Texas?
Dallas, Texas is a bustling metropolis with a lot to offer its residents. The city has a rich culture, a diverse population, and a thriving economy. However, Dallas also has a high crime rate.
According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report, Dallas ranks as the 17th most dangerous city in the United States. Property crimes and violent crimes are both significantly higher than the national average. So, while Dallas may be a great place to live, it is important to be aware of the risks.
Residents should take precautions to protect themselves and their property, such as staying in well-lit areas and being aware of their surroundings. By taking these measures, they can help to keep themselves safe in an otherwise dangerous city.
Dallas Crime Stats
It’s no secret that Dallas has had its fair share of crime over the years. But just how bad is it? Let’s take a look at the numbers. In 2020, there were a total of 5,670 (774.64 incidents per 100,000 residents) reported violent crimes in Dallas. This includes murders, rapes, robberies, and assaults.
The city also saw 27,687 property crimes. These were mainly burglaries and larceny thefts. Additionally, arson cases rose to 97 in 2020, up from 76 in 2019.
Despite the overall increase in crime, the city’s homicide rate actually decreased slightly, with 184 reported cases in 2020 compared to 198 in 2019. Overall, Dallas’s crime stats for 2020 show a slight increase in both violent and property crime compared to the previous year.
Dallas’s Crime Rate vs The Rest Of Texas
While the average violent crime rate in Dallas is higher than that of the rest of Texas, this is not the whole story.
When you look at the numbers, it becomes clear that much of the crime in Dallas is concentrated in certain areas. In fact, nearly half of all violent crimes in Dallas occur in just four neighborhoods.
This means that, while Dallas may have a higher average crime rate, the majority of residents are not affected by crime on a day-to-day basis.
Additionally, the rate of increase in violent crimes in Dallas has been declining steadily for the past several years. So while there is still room for improvement, it is clear that the city is heading in the right direction.
The Best Places in Texas
If you’re looking for a safe place to call home in the Dallas area, you’ll want to focus your search on Far-North Dallas, Frisco, and Oakdale. These neighborhoods have some of the lowest crime rates in the city, making them ideal for families and individuals.
In addition to being relatively crime-free, these areas also offer residents a wide range of amenities and activities to enjoy. From shopping and dining to parks and recreation, there’s something for everyone in these safe and welcoming neighborhoods.
Neighborhoods to Avoid in Dallas
Dallas is a large city with a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality. However, there are some areas of the city that are best avoided, particularly those with high crime rates.
South Dallas, for example, has been plagued by gang violence and drug-related crime in recent years. East Dallas also has pockets of crime, particularly in the area around Fair Park.
And while North-West Dallas is generally safe, there have been reports of increased city population violent crime in recent months. So if you’re looking to avoid trouble, it’s best to steer clear of these neighborhoods.
Is Downtown Dallas safe?
Although Dallas ranks among one of the most dangerous cities, Downtown Dallas is relatively safe compared to other parts of the city. The area is well-lit and heavily populated, making it less likely for crime to go unnoticed.
Additionally, there is a significant police presence in Downtown Dallas. In fact, the Dallas Police Department has a dedicated division that patrols the area. As a result, visitors to Downtown Dallas can feel confident that they are in a safe and secure environment.
How to Get Around Safely in Dallas
Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is a great way to get around the city, but be sure to stay alert and keep your belongings close while waiting for trains or buses. When exploring Dallas’s many attractions, be sure to stay in populated areas.
And if you’re carrying valuables, keep them hidden away to avoid becoming a target for thieves. By following these simple safety tips, you can help ensure a fun and enjoyable trip to Dallas.
Natural Disasters Risk
Dallas faces various natural disasters, including floods, fires, earthquakes, tornadoes, and windstorms. The city has seen its share of these events in recent years. The likelihood of them happening again persists.
Efforts like building levees and reinforcing structures can mitigate disaster impacts. However, risk cannot be entirely eliminated.
Hence, Dallas residents must understand these risks and prepare accordingly. Having an emergency plan is crucial. Preparation can significantly reduce damage and enhance safety.
Tips to stay safe in Dallas Texas
Dallas is a great city with a lot to offer, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe. Here are a few tips:
• Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in unfamiliar or isolated areas. If possible, travel in groups or pairs and stick to well-lit, busy streets.
• Be cautious when accepting rides from strangers. If you accept a ride from someone you don’t know, make sure to let someone else know where you’re going and when you expect to arrive.
• Keep an eye on your belongings in public places, as pickpocketing and petty theft are common. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items with you, and keep your purse or bag close to your body at all times.
These simple safety tips can help ensure that your visit to Dallas is a pleasant and enjoyable one.
Final Thoughts
While crime rates in Dallas are high, there are certain areas of the city that are much safer than others.
So if you’re looking to move to Dallas or just visiting for a while, be sure to do your research and avoid dangerous neighborhoods. Stay safe out there!
