Howard County, Maryland, frequently earns recognition as one of the top places to reside in the United States, boasting excellent education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Nevertheless, safety levels in the county can vary, and certain neighborhoods experience higher crime rates than others.
How Does Howard County Compare to Other Counties in Maryland?
According to web search findings, Howard County exhibits crime rates below both the Maryland state and national averages, outperforming many other counties with similar populations.
Nonetheless, crime rates can vary across neighborhoods, with some areas posing higher risks than others. The northwest part of Howard County stands out as the safest, while the southeast part is identified as having higher crime rates.
Beyond crime statistics, Howard County is renowned for its exceptional education, healthcare, and robust economy, consistently earning recognition as one of the top places to reside in the United States.
Here are the latest crime statistics and maps from various sources to identify the five neighborhoods in Howard County deemed the most dangerous.
| Neighborhood | Population | Violent Crime Rate (per 1,000) | Property Crime Rate (per 1,000) |
| North Laurel | 21,000 | 6.2 | 49.8 |
| Savage | 7,000 | 5.9 | 47.3 |
| Jessup | 7,000.00 | 5 | 46 |
| Elkridge | 16,000.00 | 5 | 44.9 |
| Columbia | 103,000.00 | 4 | 43 |
North Laurel
North Laurel, situated in the southeastern region of Howard County, is a census-designated place (CDP) with a population of approximately 21,000. It shares borders with Prince George’s County and Montgomery County and is in proximity to the city of Laurel.
According to CrimeGrade.org, North Laurel exhibits the highest incidence of violent crime in Howard County, recording a rate of 6.2 per 1,000 residents.
Additionally, the area experiences a notable rate of property crime, standing at 49.8 per 1,000 residents, encompassing offenses such as burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
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Savage
Savage, situated in the southeastern part of Howard County, is a CDP with approximately 7,000 residents. Positioned alongside the Little Patuxent River, it boasts a rich history as a mill town and is recognized for its railroad station.
In terms of crime statistics, Savage holds the second-highest rate of violent crime in Howard County, standing at 5.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, as reported by CrimeGrade.org. Additionally, the community experiences a notable rate of property crime, with 47.3 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Worst City to Live in Illinois
Jessup
Jessup, situated in the southern region of Howard County with a population of approximately 7,000, rests near the Anne Arundel County border and houses various state and federal correctional facilities.
According to CrimeGrade.org, Jessup exhibits the third-highest rate of violent crime in Howard County, registering at 5.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. Additionally, the area experiences a notable rate of property crime, standing at 46.4 incidents per 1,000 residents.
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Elkridge
Elkridge, situated in the eastern region of Howard County, boasts a population of approximately 16,000 residents. Positioned along the Patapsco River, it stands as one of the oldest settlements in Howard County.
Notably, Elkridge is reported to have the fourth-highest rate of violent crime in Howard County, amounting to 4.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, according to CrimeGrade.org. Additionally, the area exhibits a heightened prevalence of property crime, registering at 44.9 incidents per 1,000 residents.
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Columbia
Columbia, the largest Census-Designated Place (CDP) in Howard County, is a meticulously planned community with approximately 103,000 residents.
The community is structured into 10 self-contained villages, each boasting its own distinctive amenities and character. Columbia receives acclaim for its diversity, cultural richness, and overall quality of life.
Nevertheless, it faces challenges in terms of crime rates. According to CrimeGrade.org, it holds the fifth-highest rate of violent crime in Howard County, with 3.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. Additionally, the community grapples with a notable property crime rate of 43.2 incidents per 1,000 residents.
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Conclusion
Howard County, Maryland, is generally a secure and thriving community, though certain areas exhibit higher susceptibility to crime.
The aforementioned five neighborhoods top the list for both violent and property crime rates in the county, as indicated by the most recent data and maps.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that crime rates fluctuate based on factors such as time, location, and circumstances. Residents and visitors alike should exercise vigilance and practical judgment when navigating these specific areas.
By staying informed about potential risks and adopting precautionary measures, individuals can still relish the numerous advantages and attractions that Howard County provides.
