How to Read ZIP Code Crime Data (And What It Really Means)
Where Does ZIP Code Crime Data Come From?
Crime data in the US is collected by local law enforcement agencies and reported to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program. ZipScore aggregates this data and maps it to ZIP codes, giving you a reliable snapshot of reported crime activity in any area.
Violent Crime vs. Property Crime
There are two main categories of crime tracked at the ZIP code level:
- Violent crime includes murder, assault, robbery, and rape. This is what most people worry about first.
- Property crime includes burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. This is far more common and affects more households.
Crime Rate vs. Crime Count
A ZIP code with 50,000 residents and 100 crimes has a much lower crime rate than one with 5,000 residents and 50 crimes. Always compare rates (per 100,000 people), not raw counts. ZipScore always shows rates for this reason.
What Crime Grade Means on ZipScore
Our crime grades (A through F) are calculated relative to national averages. A grade of "A" means the area has significantly lower crime than the national average. A "C" means it's about average. Use these grades as a quick reference, then dig into the details.
Limitations of Crime Data
Crime data only reflects reported crimes. Underreporting is common, especially for assault and theft. Additionally, data is typically 1-2 years behind due to reporting timelines. Use ZipScore data as one input among many when evaluating a neighborhood.