Arlington County, situated in Virginia just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., is a suburban area hosting numerous federal agencies, monuments, and notable landmarks, including the Pentagon, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Marine Corps War Memorial.
Renowned for its high quality of life, diverse population, and low crime rate, Arlington County is generally considered safe. However, it’s important to note that safety levels can vary among its neighborhoods.
We will delve into the five neighborhoods in Arlington County with the highest crime rates, using the latest statistics provided by the Arlington County Police Department.
| Neighborhood | Property Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents) | Violent Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents) |
| Nauck | 41.6 | 3.2 |
| Columbia Heights | 35.9 | 4.1 |
| Buckingham | 44.6 | 3.1 |
| Clarendon-Courthouse | 45.7 | 4.6 |
| Ballston-Virginia Square | 59.4 | 4.4 |
Nauck
Nauck is currently undergoing redevelopment and revitalization, featuring new housing and commercial projects. However, it faces a higher crime rate than the county average, particularly in property crimes. In 2023, Nauck reported 1,023 incidents of property crime, encompassing burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft.
This results in a property crime rate of 41.6 per 1,000 residents, significantly surpassing the county average of 16.9 per 1,000 residents. Additionally, Nauck recorded 79 incidents of violent crime, including homicide, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
This leads to a violent crime rate of 3.2 per 1,000 residents, compared to the county average of 1.3 per 1,000 residents.
Read More:Â This Georgia City Has Been Named the Drug Overdoses Capital of the State
Columbia Heights
Columbia Heights, situated in central Arlington and bordered by Columbia Pike, Glebe Road, and Arlington Boulevard, is a vibrant and diverse community boasting numerous restaurants, shops, and cultural venues.
However, it’s important to note that Columbia Heights faces a higher-than-average crime rate, particularly in the realm of violent crimes. In 2023, there were 86 reported incidents of violent crime in Columbia Heights, resulting in a violent crime rate of 4.1 per 1,000 residents. This stands in stark contrast to the county average of 1.3 per 1,000 residents.
Additionally, the neighborhood experienced 752 reported incidents of property crime, leading to a property crime rate of 35.9 per 1,000 residents. This is notably higher than the county average of 16.9 per 1,000 residents.
Read More:Â Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Hillsboro, Oregon
Buckingham
Recognized for its diversity and affordability, Buckingham offers a mix of apartments, condos, and townhouses. However, it’s important to note that Buckingham experiences a higher crime rate compared to the county average, particularly in terms of property crimes.
In 2023, there were 1,038 reported incidents of property crime in Buckingham, resulting in a property crime rate of 44.6 per 1,000 residents, significantly higher than the county average of 16.9 per 1,000 residents.
Additionally, Buckingham reported 72 incidents of violent crime, translating to a violent crime rate of 3.1 per 1,000 residents, exceeding the county average of 1.3 per 1,000 residents.
Read More:Â This City Has Been Named the Murder Capital of Arizona
Clarendon-Courthouse
Clarendon-Courthouse, situated in central Arlington and bordered by Wilson Boulevard, Washington Boulevard, and Arlington Boulevard, is a vibrant neighborhood renowned for its array of bars, restaurants, shops, and entertainment offerings.
In the year 2023, Clarendon-Courthouse witnessed 101 reported cases of violent crime, resulting in a violent crime rate of 4.6 per 1,000 residents. This stands in contrast to the county average of 1.3 per 1,000 residents.
Additionally, the neighborhood reported 1,003 incidents of property crime, translating to a property crime rate of 45.7 per 1,000 residents. This is notably higher than the county average of 16.9 per 1,000 residents.
Read More:Â This City Has Been Named the Highest Divorce Rate in Pennsylvania
Ballston-Virginia Square
Despite its academic and research prominence, the area faces a significant challenge in terms of crime rates, particularly in property-related offenses.
In the year 2023, Ballston-Virginia Square reported 1,378 incidents of property crime, resulting in a property crime rate of 59.4 per 1,000 residents. This stands in stark contrast to the county average of 16.9 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Additionally, the region experienced 102 reported incidents of violent crime, leading to a violent crime rate of 4.4 per 1,000 residents. This is notably higher than the county average of 1.3 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Read More:Â Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Carroll County, New Hampshire
To Conclude
Although Arlington County is known for its generally low crime rate and high quality of life, it is crucial to recognize variations in safety levels among its neighborhoods. An examination of the top five neighborhoods with the highest crime rates provides a nuanced perspective, revealing distinct patterns and areas of concern.
Looking ahead, Arlington County should prioritize collaborative efforts involving residents, community organizations, and law enforcement agencies to implement targeted crime prevention strategies. This could include increasing police presence in high-crime areas, investing in social programs and community development initiatives, and promoting open communication and data transparency.
By acknowledging the challenges within its diverse neighborhoods and working collectively toward solutions, Arlington County can continue to uphold its reputation as a safe and vibrant community for all residents.
