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Is Fayetteville, NC, a Safe Place to Live? (Crime Statistics)
Is Fayetteville, NC, a safe place to live? Here is what you should know about Fayetteville crime statistics.
Are you thinking about moving to Fayetteville, North Carolina? With a population of over 209,000, it is the sixth-largest city in the state and serves as the economic and cultural hub of Cumberland County.
Fayetteville is a great place to live because of all the fantastic things it offers its residents, such as a low cost of living, affordable properties, an abundance of parks and walking trails, and a rich history.
The city's identity is linked to its role as home to Fort Bragg, one of the largest military installations in the world, which brings both opportunities and challenges to the community.
This proximity to a significant military base creates a distinctive demographic mix that includes active-duty service members, military families, veterans, defense contractors, and civilian professionals. This diversity contributes to Fayetteville's character but also influences its overall safety.
Like many mid-sized American cities, Fayetteville faces genuine safety challenges. When moving anywhere new, the key is understanding safe areas, current crime trends, and how to protect yourself and your family.
Whether you are a military family considering a permanent change of station to Fort Bragg, a growing family looking for affordable housing options, or a professional seeking opportunities in this dynamic city, let's examine the latest crime statistics in Fayetteville.
Please keep reading to learn more about how safe it is to live in Fayetteville.
1. Overall Crime Statistics in Fayetteville
Unlike Raleigh's crime rate, crime in Fayetteville is more frequent. While it does not have the country's highest crime rate, it ranks high within North Carolina. It is considered safer than only 5% of other cities in the United States.
With 39.51 crimes per 1,000 people, Fayetteville has high rates of both property and violent crime. The good news is that as of February 2025, crime numbers in Fayetteville dropped to their lowest level in 10 years, and homicide levels in particular are down by 50%.
| Violent | Property | Total | |
| Number of Crimes | 1,837 | 6,451 | 8,288 |
| Crime rate (per 1,000 residents) | 8.76 | 30.75 | 39.51 |
Data Sourced from NeighborhoodScout.
All crime rates are shown as the number of crimes per 1,000 Fayetteville residents in a standard year.
Violent Crimes
| Assault | 6.87 |
| Robbery | 1.25 |
| Rape | 0.41 |
| Murder | 0.22 |
Property Crimes
| Theft | 22.19 |
| Vehicle Theft | 3.30 |
| Burglary | 5.26 |
The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime is one in 114, and the chance of becoming a victim of property crime is one in 33, both of which are higher than the state average.
Property crimes in Fayetteville, including larceny and burglary, have historically been significant concerns. On the other hand, the downward trend in violent crime aligns with national patterns and suggests that community policing efforts and crime prevention initiatives are beginning to show results.
2. Safe Neighborhoods in Fayetteville
If you're ready to move to Fayetteville and find your dream home in a neighborhood that perfectly matches your lifestyle, you are in the right place. Fayetteville offers a wide range of safe communities and welcoming neighborhoods, making it easy to discover your ideal home, whether a lovely single-family home or a brand-new construction property.
While Fayetteville faces safety challenges, several neighborhoods are exceptionally safe and desirable places to live. These areas offer residents peace of mind, excellent amenities, great restaurants, and community features.
Check out these safe neighborhoods in Fayetteville, NC:
Westover
Westover consistently ranks as one of Fayetteville's safest and most desirable neighborhoods. Located just west of Fort Bragg, this area is particularly popular among military families and veterans.
The neighborhood is undeniably family-friendly and offers a seamless commute to the base. It is an incredibly safe neighborhood and stands out as one of the best areas in Fayetteville.
What makes Westover special:
- Exceptionally safe with low crime rates
- Family-friendly atmosphere with excellent schools nearby
- Mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes
- Affordable housing
- proximity to Westover Park with recreational facilities
Hope Mills
Hope Mills is one of the finest neighborhoods in Fayetteville, NC, boasting a secure environment for pets, friends, visitors, and families. With a growing population of nearly 18,000, it's been ranked as the second-best suburb to live in the Fayetteville area.
This cherished suburb exudes a peaceful atmosphere, predominantly attracting families and young professionals who are homeowners. The community remains tightly knit, with military families being a familiar presence as neighbors.
What makes Hope Mills special:
- Lower crime rates compared to downtown Fayetteville
- Strong community engagement and neighborhood watch programs
- Excellent schools and family-friendly amenities
- Well-maintained parks and recreational facilities
- Active local government focused on public safety
Arran Hills
The Arran Hills neighborhood offers residents a unique combination of natural beauty and safety. Located near Arran Lake, this area provides outdoor recreation opportunities and a secure living environment.
What makes Arran Hill special:
- Lower crime rates due to its residential nature
- Active community association
- Beautiful lakefront properties and walking trails
- Well-lit streets and maintained common areas
3. Utilize Resources Available in Fayetteville
The Fayetteville Police Department is dedicated to improving the quality of life by creating a safe and secure environment for the citizens it serves. It will always act with integrity to reduce crime, develop partnerships, and build trust with everyone.
Fayetteville/Cumberland County has county Crimestoppers who coordinate with law enforcement to provide information on criminal activity. They use crime mapping and community watch groups to stay updated on crime and provide safety resources.
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety also provides many tips on personal safety, theft, fraud, and abuse. These resources can help you stay safe and contribute to the safety of others in the community.
- North Carolina Victim Advocate Network
- North Carolina Missing Persons
- North Carolina Crime Statistics
- VictimLaw.Info
- United States Bureau of Justice
4. Best Ways to Stay Safe in Fayetteville
Understanding how to stay safe in your community, regardless of location, is crucial. This popular and prominent city has a significant police presence to assist in emergencies.
By taking simple steps, you can ensure your safety. Crime prevention is essential for reducing the risk of becoming a victim of violent or property crimes.
Living safely in any city requires awareness, preparation, and community engagement. Here are proven strategies to help you stay safe while enjoying everything Fayetteville offers.
Secure Your Property:
- Install quality deadbolt locks on all exterior doors
- Use motion-sensor lighting around your home's perimeter
- Consider a home security system with monitoring
- Keep landscaping trimmed to eliminate hiding spots
- Install security cameras at key entry points
Make Your Home Look Occupied:
- Use timers on lights when away
- Keep yards well-maintained
- Have neighbors collect mail and packages
- Park cars in garages when possible
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings:
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas when out after dark
- Trust your instincts
- Keep your phone charged and easily accessible
Vehicle Safety:
- Always lock your car, even for quick stops
- Don't leave valuables visible in your vehicle
- Park in well-lit, busy areas when possible
- Have your keys ready before approaching your car
Get Involved:
- Join or start a neighborhood watch program
- Attend community meetings and stay informed about local issues
- Build relationships with neighbors
- Participate in National Night Out and other community safety events
Leverage Safety Technology:
- Use location-sharing apps with trusted family members
- Install personal safety apps on your smartphone
- Consider dash cameras for your vehicle
- Use smart home technology for enhanced security
Stay Informed:
- Follow Fayetteville Police Department on social media
- Sign up for community alert systems
- Monitor local crime mapping websites
- Stay updated on neighborhood social media groups
Methodology
To determine whether Fayetteville, NC, is a safe place to live, data was sourced from NeighborhoodScout, the U.S. Census Bureau, and CBS 17.
FAQS
Where does Fayetteville, NC, rank in crime?
Unfortunately, Fayetteville, NC, has one of the highest crime rates in America, 39.51 out of 1,000. While violent crimes are on the decline, property crimes continue to be a problem in this vibrant city.
Is Fayetteville an excellent place to live in North Carolina?
Fayetteville is a great place to settle down because of the many things it offers its residents, such as a diverse community, low cost of living, and affordable prices.
Why are people moving to Fayetteville?
Fayetteville has a lot to offer residents, and many people choose to move here because the cost of living is affordable, the real estate is beautiful, the community is welcoming, and the natural scenery is gorgeous.
Is Fayetteville, NC, an expensive place to live?
Fayetteville is an affordable place to call home, with a cost of living 6% lower than the national average. Not only is housing affordable, but utilities, groceries, and transportation expenses are below average.
Is Fayetteville, NC, a Safe Place to Live? (Crime Statistics) - The Bottom Line
While crime statistics provide essential context, proper safety comes from being prepared, staying aware, and choosing the right community for your family's needs. Fayetteville offers numerous safe neighborhoods where families thrive, supported by improving crime trends and strong community policing efforts.
Your chance of becoming a victim of crime in Fayetteville may be higher in the eastern neighborhoods and lower in the southwest part of the city. Understanding where an area is safer is essential when moving to the area.
Whether you're drawn to the military-friendly atmosphere of Westover, the suburban charm of Hope Mills, or the scenic beauty of Arran Hills, you can find a safe place to call home in Fayetteville. The key is researching, taking appropriate precautions, and connecting with your community.
When relocating, it's crucial to consider the local area and how it aligns with your needs. Remember, no city is without risk, but with the proper knowledge and preparation, you can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime while enjoying all that Fayetteville has to offer.
If you are ready to explore safe neighborhoods in Fayetteville, contact the experts at Raleigh Realty. We are here to help you find the perfect home in a secure community that meets your family's needs.
