Phoenix, a city basking in the desert sun, is known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
But regarding safety, the question arises: How safe is Phoenix?
We provide the latest 2024 crime statistics from official FBI reports, along with insights from experts and top security professionals, delivering a comprehensive list of the safest areas for residents and tourists, as well as those where extra caution is recommended.
In the end we also share a proactive security solution so you can protect your assets, machinery, and goodwill!
Phoenix’s crime rate compared to the national average:
The crime rate in Phoenix, Arizona, is higher than both the state and national averages.
In 2023, the city of Phoenix recorded approximately 54,000 index crimes.
It means the crime rate in Phoenix, Arizona is roughly 32.7 crimes per 1,000 residents.
This figure surpasses the Arizona state average of 24.9 per 1,000 and the national average of 23 per 1,000.
The “total Crime Index” of 6 indicates that Phoenix is statistically safer than only 6% of cities in the U.S.
This means that, when comparing crime rates across the country, Phoenix falls within a higher risk category for crime.
A score of 100 represents the safest possible scenario, so a score of 6 highlights significant safety concerns.
Phoenix crime rate ranking for 2024.
According to the report by the Phoenix police department, in the first three quarters of 2024, Phoenix has seen :
- A slight uptick in violent crime, with 8,838 incidents reported!
- Property crimes remain high at 26,140 incidents.
Overall, total crimes, e.g theft, larceny, burglary, homicides, and robbery for 2024 stand at 34,978, indicating ongoing concerns for safety in the city.
Phoenix crime rate 2023 vs 2024:
| Crimes | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Homicide | 97 | 66 |
| Rape | 563 | 531 |
| Robbery | 1368 | 1503 |
| Assault | 4603 | 4511 |
We see a significant drop in homicides, rape, and assault in 2024 as compared to 2023 in Phoenix. But the robberies have gone up!
Phoenix crime rate map:
The map above highlights Phoenix neighborhoods, with darker-shaded areas marking crime hotspots for burglary, car theft, and robbery, while lighter-shaded regions represent the safer, more peaceful parts of the city.
Safest neighborhoods of Phoenix:
The safest Phoenix neighborhoods are in the northern part! Anthem East, Anthem Country Club, Komatke, Carriage Trails, Colina, Desert Foothills North, and Sonoran Foothills are ideal for a peaceful family life or if you are on the look out for entrepreneurial ventures!
Here’s a table summarizing the neighborhoods in Phoenix, along with their safety ratings and reasons why they are considered safe:
| Neighborhood | Safety Rating | Reasons for Safety |
|---|---|---|
| Ahwatukee Foothills Village | Best neighborhood in Phoenix for families | Low crime rates, family-friendly environment, active community watch programs. 2022 Community Assessment, Active community events |
| North/Northwest Phoenix | Affordable family housing/safe outdoor activities for families | Well-maintained parks, strong neighborhood associations, and lower violent crime rates. |
| North Gateway | The safest city for retirees and outdoor activities | Newer developments, community engagement, and proactive policing. |
| Paradise Valley Village | “Beverly hills of Arizona”/”Safest hub for business” | Affluent area, private security measures, low overall crime rates. |
| Deer Valley | An epitome of safety and affordability for families | Low crime rate, good schools, entertainment for kids, and active community involvement. |
| South Mountain Village | Safest neighborhood for families | Ongoing revitalization efforts community programs aimed at reducing crime. |
| Downtown Phoenix | The safest place for tourists | Increased police presence, urban renewal projects, and Phoenix community safety plans and initiatives. |
Safest neighborhoods for tourists in Phoenix:
Let the locals guide you!
John Talton, a journalist, says:
“Phoenix offers convenient and safe transportation options for tourists, including:
- Light Rail: Connects to downtown Phoenix, Tempe, ASU campuses, sports venues, and museums.
- Sky Train: Provides access to Sky Harbor Airport.
- Buses: Serve Papago Park and Old Scottsdale.”
John Eugene Bennett, who has been living in Phoenix since 1952, says Downtown Phoenix is pretty safe:
“The notable improvements in downtown Phoenix over the years are credited to the efforts of the city council and police department. Bennett highlights that, despite its size, Phoenix boasts a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities of similar scale in the United States.”
Eddie V, a tour guide warns about the dangers in Phoenix for tourists. He says:
“Phoenix’s dry climate can lead to rapid dehydration. Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Extreme heat can cause heatstroke, a potentially life-threatening condition. Hiking in the desert can be dangerous due to extreme temperatures, rough terrain, and the risk of getting lost.”
Dangerous neighborhoods of Phoenix:
A local, Gabe Gardener, who has been living in Phoenix since 2012, says :
“South Phoenix, especially along the I-17 Corridor, is generally considered less safe than other parts of the city. If you ask how dangerous Phoenix is, then I must say however, it’s not as dangerous as neighborhoods in smaller cities or major metropolitan areas. Avoiding gang activity and nighttime travel can significantly reduce risks.”
Property crime hotspot map:
Crime analysis and research unit of the Phoenix police department has issued the August 2024 property crime hotspot map. These hotspots are primarily located in the central part of Phoenix and the Southern Foothills Golf Club area.
Specific areas with elevated property crime rates include:
- Central Phoenix: Neighborhoods near downtown Phoenix and major thoroughfares.
- Southern Foothills Golf Club: Areas surrounding the golf course and adjacent residential neighborhoods.
- Western Phoenix: Certain neighborhoods on the city’s west side, particularly those with higher crime rates.
Why is there so much crime in Phoenix?
As the fifth most populous city in the nation, Phoenix experiences its share of big-city crimes. However, other factors have contributed to this situation. In its September 2024 report, the Commonsense institute Arizona highlights key reasons, noting that:
“Arizona’s Proposition 312 could significantly affect public safety by potentially increasing property crimes due to lighter penalties for repeat offenders.”
Additionally, high crime rates in Phoenix, especially in areas like “The Zone,” are largely driven by the city’s significant homeless population, many of whom struggle with addiction and mental health issues. This is closely tied to increased incidents of theft, assaults, and drug-related crimes.
Homeless individuals may have experienced the loss of loved ones or significant financial hardships, which can drive them to desperate actions, like shoplifting.
The problem, therefore, calls for some deterrent measures such as broader social support, housing schemes, and community safety arrangements.
Norada Real Estate company ranks Tellesoen (located west of Phoenix) second on the list of Arizona’s 20 most dangerous cities. Phoenix ranks 15th!
Nevertheless…
A report by Redfin shows 91,000 people moved into Phoenix in 2020!
So, is Phoenix safe? Absolutely! Residents from cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, Denver, and even New York have ranked it as one of the safest destinations.
“Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., mainly because people are moving there from California,” said Redfin chief economist Daryl Fairweather.
Many are also buying more property as they settle in!
Chief Sullivan gives his 2024 crime reduction plan in which he emphasizes:
- Community Engagement: Loops public safety into the community through partnerships with residents, business enterprises, and community organizations.
- Data-Driven Strategies: Crime data and analytics are used to extract trends and places of intervention.
- More Resources: Personnel and other resources would be escalated to high-crime areas so that they can respond quickly and visibly.
- Collaborative Approaches: Collaboration with local agencies and nonprofits on the related issues of homelessness and mental health.
- Emphasis on the Youth: Juvenile programs focus on working with young people to prevent future criminality.
The government is doing its part, but what can you do to keep your people, assets, machinery, and goodwill safe?
What can you do to stay safe in Phoenix?
While crime rates in Phoenix are on the rise, it remains well-managed in many key neighborhoods.
Eric Ravenscroft says Phoenix is a “business hub with growing opportunities,” so the city is building up and pulling through.
Giant companies are flocking to Phoenix: TSMC is constructing a massive $12 billion facility in North Phoenix, while Intel has recently unveiled a $20 billion expansion of its semiconductor operations in Chandler.
Additionally, an Austrian automotive manufacturer is increasing its presence in the area by recruiting key personnel for a new manufacturing plant.
These corporate giants prefer to shift their headquarters to the city of Phoenix, which provides a safe environment above everything else.
One thing is for sure when it comes to security…
Making smart choices is essential. Cutting-edge security technologies, such as advanced CCTV surveillance monitoring systems, innovative city programs, and crime prevention data analytics, can help safeguard your business effectively!
Remote video monitoring:
Whether your business is in one of the safest neighborhoods in Phoenix or an area with higher crime rates, you can’t underestimate the importance of a monitored CCTV security system!
It’s not just about detection; it’s about swift action from a qualified team. Remote video monitoring helps you achieve that!
By combining advanced analytics to detect specific unwanted behavior or threats and the expertise of vigilant remote operators, your business is well protected.
A suite of AI-powered cloud video analytics secures your perimeter and entry points. Here are a few examples:
- Time alerts for parking lots.
- Object detection and tracking AI.
- Mask detection AI.
- License plate recognition.
- Tailgating detection AI for both humans and vehicles.
- Loitering detection AI.
- Shoplifting detection AI.
- Smoke and fire detection AI.
So whether you want to protect your property—big or small—remote live video monitoring offers customized security solutions catering to properties located across North America!
Whether you’re looking to protect a small property or a large one, remote video monitoring offers tailored security solutions for various industries, with coverage across more than 100 locations throughout North America!
Key takeaways:
- Homicides decreased from 97 in 2023 to 66 in 2024, indicating a significant drop.
- Rape incidents also declined slightly, from 563 in 2023 to 531 in 2024.
- Robberies increased from 1,368 in 2023 to 1,503 in 2024, showing a rise in this type of crime.
- Assaults saw a slight decrease from 4,603 in 2023 to 4,511 in 2024.
- Phoenix’s crime rate is higher than the state and national averages.
- In 2024, property crimes increased while violent crimes decreased.
- The safest neighborhoods are Anthem East, Anthem Country Club, Komatke, Carriage Trails, Colina, Desert Foothills North, and Sonoran Foothills.
- Crime hotspots are Central Phoenix, Southern Foothills Golf Club, and areas with higher homeless populations.
Contact us today to learn more about live remote video monitoring in Phoenix and security services in Tucson, Arizona!
