Is Durham, NC a Safe Place to Live? (Crime Statistics)

Is Durham, NC, Safe? 

Is Durham, NC, a safe place to live? Let's dive into Durham's crime statistics, the safest areas to live in Durham, and the top safety tips for Durham residents. 

Moving to a new city involves many considerations, and safety is naturally at the top of most people's lists. If you're considering Durham, North Carolina, as your new home, it's essential to have accurate, up-to-date information about the area's crime statistics and safety measures.

Durham prides itself on its rich history, beautiful real estate, cultural diversity, and thriving economy. With many fun things to do and safe neighborhoods, it is no wonder young professionals and families love to call Durham home. 

Durham is a rapidly growing area with a population of over 296,186 people. Between 2023 and 2024, Durham was ranked as the 53rd municipality within the top 100 population increases in the country, further highlighting its popularity. 

At Raleigh Realty, we believe in providing our clients with complete transparency about the communities they're considering so you can make informed decisions about your next home.

Here is what you need to know about the crime rate in Durham

1. Current Crime Statistics in Durham 

With a crime rate of 45 per 1,000 residents, Durham has a relatively high crime rate compared to other cities of similar size in America. Considered safer than 3% of other U.S. cities, Durham has experienced some challenges regarding crime. 

Your chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Durham is one in 156, and property crime is one in 26. The city has faced particular challenges with violent crime over the last few years. In 2024, there were over 500 offenses involving juveniles, showing a nearly 27% increase in juvenile crime compared to the previous year. 

Here are the total crime rates in Durham, NC: 

*Data sourced from NeighborhoodScout. 

While the crime rate is high, it's crucial to understand that crime is not evenly distributed throughout Durham. Like most cities, certain areas experience higher crime rates while others remain relatively safe.

The most common type of violent crime is assault, with a rate of 4.01 per 1,000 residents, followed by robbery, with a rate of 1.68 per 1,000 residents. Regarding property crime, the most common type is theft, with a rate of 27.08 per 1,000 residents. 

2. How Durham is Working to Improve Safety 

Despite its challenges, Durham city officials and law enforcement agencies actively implement comprehensive strategies to improve public safety and reduce crime rates. These include increased police presence and community programs focused on crime prevention. 

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) was reintroduced to Durham in July 2023. It represents a collaborative federal, state, and local effort to reduce gun violence and violent crime. This nationwide initiative brings together multiple law enforcement agencies to target the most violent offenders and implement evidence-based crime reduction strategies.

Durham has invested in better crime data collection and analysis, allowing law enforcement to identify patterns and deploy resources more effectively. This includes enhanced community crime mapping tools that help police and residents stay informed about local safety trends.

3. Safest Areas to Live in Durham 

Location significantly affects safety and security when considering where to live in Durham. Many neighborhoods in Durham are known to be safe and great for raising families. 

The southwest side of Durham consistently ranks as the safest area, with lower crime rates in both violent and property crime categories. This area includes established neighborhoods with active community engagement, good lighting, and infrastructure.

Areas surrounding Duke University tend to have enhanced security presence and well-maintained facilities. The university's investment in campus and surrounding area safety creates a positive effect on nearby residential areas.

Many of Durham's newer suburban developments on the city's outskirts feature modern security infrastructure, including well-lit streets, neighborhood watch programs, and sometimes gated community features.

While experiencing some crime challenges, Durham's downtown has seen significant improvement in recent years, with better lighting, increased foot traffic during business hours, and enhanced police presence. 

Additionally, all the greenways and trails in Durham are secure, encouraging outdoor activities and promoting a healthy lifestyle for residents and visitors.

While there are many safe neighborhoods in Durham, it's essential to be aware of areas with higher crime rates. Due to their elevated crime rates, the areas immediately south of downtown (South Alston) and communities east of downtown should be avoided. 

When visiting these areas, it's crucial to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Being aware of your surroundings and avoiding walking alone at night can help minimize the risk of becoming a victim of crime in these neighborhoods.

4. Public Transportation Safety 

Public transportation in Durham is generally secure during commuting hours (7 am-7 pm). The City of Durham Transportation Department strives to build a multi-modal transportation network for residents, making it easier and safer to travel throughout the city.

However, using public transportation late at night is not advisable, as safety risks, including motor vehicle theft, may increase during these hours. It is advised to abstain from using taxis late at night and consistently verify the license plate and driver's credentials before entering the vehicle.

5. Is Durham Safe for Women Travelers? 

Durham is generally considered safe for women travelers, with a low risk of being victimized by crime. Although the downtown area is considered safe, it is essential to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure personal safety.

When visiting Durham, women travelers should be aware of their surroundings, refrain from traversing unaccompanied after dark, and exercise caution when utilizing public transportation. By taking these measures, women travelers can enjoy their time in Durham while minimizing potential safety risks.

6. Nightlife Safety in Durham

Durham's nightlife offers many options, including late-night eateries, dive bars, renowned craft breweries, and live music venues. While the city is generally safe at night, taking precautions is essential when enjoying Durham's nightlife scene. 

Avoiding areas with known safety issues and staying in populated areas can help minimize potential dangers. Traveling with companions, remaining vigilant, and contacting emergency services in case of suspicious activity can ensure a safe and enjoyable night out in Durham.

7. Top Safety Tips for Durham Residents 

Whether you're a new resident or considering a move to Durham, these practical safety tips can help you stay secure and enjoy the city's many amenities.

Home Security Essentials: 

• Install quality deadbolt locks on all exterior doors and ensure windows have secure locks
• Consider a home security system, especially if you're in a higher-risk area
• Maintain good lighting around your property's exterior
• Get to know your neighbors and participate in neighborhood watch programs when available
• Keep bushes and shrubs trimmed to eliminate hiding spots around your home

Personal Safety Practices: 

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone or at night
• Park in well-lit areas and lock your vehicle doors
• Avoid displaying expensive items or large amounts of cash in public
• Trust your instincts
• Keep emergency contacts readily available on your phone

Vehicle Safety: 

• Never leave valuables visible in your car, even when parked in your driveway
• Consider parking in garages when possible
• Be cautious when approaching your vehicle in parking lots, especially at night
• Keep your car doors locked while driving

Stay Involved in the Community: 

• Participate in local community organizations and neighborhood associations
• Attend city council meetings to stay informed about local safety initiatives
• Use Durham's crime mapping tools to stay aware of trends in your area
• Report suspicious activity to local law enforcement promptly

Methodology 

Data from NeighborhoodScout, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management were used to determine whether Durham, NC, is a safe place to live. 

FAQs 

Is Durham a safe city to live in?

Durham has a higher crime rate than the national average but is still considered low-risk overall. The city has an upmarket focus and boasts low poverty levels and increased employment, making it a relatively safe place to live.

Is downtown Durham safe at night?

Overall, Downtown Durham is generally safe to visit, and many residents feel secure. However, late-night walks in the downtown area should be avoided for extra caution.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Durham?

Downtown Durham, Southpoint, and the area around Duke University are among Durham's safest neighborhoods, offering a secure atmosphere for inhabitants and visitors.

These areas are well-maintained and have a low crime rate, making them ideal for those looking for a safe place to live or visit. The streets are well-lit, and the police are always on patrol to ensure they are well-lit.

Are there any areas in Durham that should be avoided due to high crime rates?

It's advisable to avoid South Alston and areas east of downtown due to their elevated crime rates.

What precautions should be taken to avoid scams and fraud in Durham?

Protect your personal information to avoid scams and fraud in Durham. Double-check all sensitive information before submitting it, and do not hesitate to ask for clarification when needed. 

Making an Informed Decision 

While Durham does face crime challenges, it's important to remember that many residents live safely and happily in the city. The key is making informed choices about where to live and taking precautions. 

Durham offers many attractive qualities that draw new residents, including proximity to excellent universities, a growing job market, and a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas. The city's ongoing investment in safety improvements and community programs demonstrates a commitment to addressing current challenges.

When house hunting in Durham, consider working with experienced local real estate professionals who understand neighborhood-by-neighborhood safety profiles and can help you find areas that match your comfort level and lifestyle needs.

At Raleigh Realty, we're committed to helping you find not just a house but a safe and welcoming community to call home. Our experienced agents understand Durham's neighborhoods and can provide detailed insights to help you make the best decision for your family's needs and safety priorities.

If you're considering a move to Durham or have questions about specific neighborhoods, we encourage you to contact our team. We're here to help you find your dream home.