Frederick County, Maryland, boasts a rich blend of landscapes and cultures, providing a range of attractions and conveniences for both locals and tourists.
Nevertheless, safety and tranquility levels vary across the county. Crime statistics gathered from different outlets reveal that certain neighborhoods in Frederick County experience elevated rates of both violent and property crimes compared to others.
How Does Frederick Compare to Other Counties in Maryland?
Frederick County, Maryland, boasts a crime rate below both state and national averages. As per the latest FBI data, the overall crime rate in Frederick County stands at 17.3 incidents per 1,000 residents, in contrast to Maryland’s 20.1 per 1,000 and the United States’ 23.2 per 1,000.
Moreover, Frederick County exhibits lower rates of violent and property crimes compared to the state and national norms. Nevertheless, specific cities and towns within Frederick County, such as Frederick City, Ballenger Creek, and Thurmont, register higher crime rates.
Thus, the safety of residing or visiting Frederick County hinges on the particular location and various contributing factors.
The following are the five neighborhoods deemed the most hazardous in Frederick County, based on the incidence of crimes per 1,000 residents:
| Neighborhood | Crime Rate (per 1,000) | Violent Crime Rate (per 1,000) | Property Crime Rate (per 1,000) |
| Frederick City | 19 | 3.96 | 15.04 |
| Ballenger Creek | 16.8 | 2.1 | 14.7 |
| Thurmont | 15.4 | 3.1 | 12.3 |
| Brunswick | 14.8 | 1.7 | 13.1 |
| Walkersville | 14.5 | 1.5 | 13 |
Frederick City
Frederick City, boasting a population of around 73,000, serves as both the county seat and the largest urban center in the region. Despite its size, the city faces higher crime rates compared to other areas in the county, with an overall rate of 19 crimes per 1,000 residents.
Examining the specific types of crime, Frederick City displays a higher incidence of violent crimes, registering at 3.96 per 1,000 residents, slightly surpassing the national median of 4 per 1,000. Conversely, the city reports a lower rate of property crimes, with 15.04 incidents per 1,000 residents, compared to the national median of 19 per 1,000.
It’s worth noting that safety levels vary within the city, with certain neighborhoods, including Urbana Highlands, Villages of Urbana, and Tuscarora Creek, standing out as relatively safer areas.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Anne Arundel County, Maryland
Ballenger Creek
Ballenger Creek, situated in the southwest of the county, is designated as a census-designated place (CDP) with an approximate population of 19,000. Its crime rate stands at 16.8 per 1,000 residents, slightly below the county average of 17.3 per 1,000.
Notably, the CDP exhibits a lower rate of violent crimes (2.1 per 1,000) compared to the county average (2.6 per 1,000).
However, it registers a higher rate of property crimes (14.7 per 1,000) in contrast to the county average (14.7 per 1,000). Characterized by a predominantly suburban environment, the CDP also features some rural areas and farms.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Prince George’s County, Maryland
Thurmont
Thurmont, situated in the northern part of the county, boasts a population of approximately 6,500. The town’s crime rate stands at 15.4 per 1,000 residents, slightly below the county average of 17.3 per 1,000.
While Thurmont exhibits a higher rate of violent crimes at 3.1 per 1,000, surpassing the county average of 2.6 per 1,000, it records a lower rate of property crimes at 12.3 per 1,000, compared to the county average of 14.7 per 1,000.
Noteworthy for its proximity to the Catoctin Mountain Park and the Camp David presidential retreat, Thurmont offers a unique blend of community and natural attractions.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Murder Capital of Louisiana
Brunswick
Brunswick, situated in the southeastern part of the county, boasts a population of approximately 6,000. With a crime rate of 14.8 per 1,000 residents, it stands below the county average of 17.3 per 1,000.
While the city exhibits a lower incidence of violent crimes at 1.7 per 1,000 compared to the county average of 2.6 per 1,000, it records a slightly elevated rate of property crimes at 13.1 per 1,000, in contrast to the county average of 14.7 per 1,000.
Nestled alongside the Potomac River and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, Brunswick features a charming historic downtown area.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Baltimore County, Maryland
Walkersville
Walkersville, located at the heart of the county, boasts a population of approximately 6,000 residents. The town exhibits a crime rate of 14.5 per 1,000 inhabitants, which is below the county’s average of 17.3 per 1,000.
In terms of criminal activity, Walkersville demonstrates a lower incidence of violent crimes at 1.5 per 1,000, contrasting with the county’s average of 2.6 per 1,000.
However, the town experiences a slightly elevated rate of property crimes, registering at 13 per 1,000 compared to the county average of 14.7 per 1,000. Predominantly residential, Walkersville also features some commercial and industrial zones.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Healthiest Place to Live in Alaska
Final Words
Here are the top five riskiest neighborhoods in Frederick County, Maryland, as indicated by available crime data. It’s important to note that crime rates may fluctuate based on factors like the season, day of the week, and time of day.
As a result, it’s recommended to remain vigilant and use common sense when residing or visiting any location. Report any dubious or criminal incidents promptly to local authorities. Prioritize safety and appreciate the richness and variety of Frederick County!
