Crime and Pollution in Riga

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Riga are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 342 user contributions.This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Riga.

Crime Data in Riga

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Riga presents a relatively calm crime environment with data indicating a predominantly low crime rate across various categories. Residents express a notable sense of safety, especially during daylight hours.

Public safety perceptions vary with time of day; however, there is a general consensus of safety and reduced crime threats.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesProperty crimes in Riga, such as theft and break-ins, are among the less concerning issues for residents. The data suggests a high level of confidence in property security.
  • Drug-Related IssuesRiga has managed to maintain control over drug-related issues, with public sentiment reflecting a low concern about drugs affecting community safety.
  • Violent CrimesConcerns about violent crimes such as assaults and robberies are notably low in Riga. Residents feel secure, indicating effective crime prevention and law enforcement actions.
  • Public SafetyRiga's residents report a strong sense of safety, particularly when alone during the day. The city is generally perceived as peaceful and secure, contributing to a positive living experience.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsThere is a minimal sense among the population that crime rates are increasing, suggesting overall satisfaction with the current safety levels.
  • Specific FearsSpecific fears relating to crime in Riga revolve less around violence or theft and more on potential corruption and bribery, indicating a need for transparency and accountability.
Worldwide
Latvia

Crime Rankings

Riga ranks 1st on the Crime rankings in Latvia.
The crime ranking by city for Latvia is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.
Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025

Pollution Data in Riga

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Riga has made substantial improvements in air quality, maintaining a moderate pollution index largely due to efficient environmental policies. This progress has positively influenced residents' comfort while spending time outdoors.

Although there are areas for improvement, the city's air quality is perceived favorably by residents, with lower levels of harmful pollutants compared to many other urban centers.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)The PM2.5 levels in Riga are moderate, reminding residents of occasional health implications, especially for sensitive groups.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)PM10 levels are slightly higher but remain within a manageable range. Efforts to continue reducing these particulates can further enhance urban living standards.
Waste and Noise Pollution

Despite Riga's successes in air quality control, noise pollution presents challenges, primarily in bustling metropolitan areas.

Garbage disposal satisfaction is generally positive, with residents acknowledging effective waste management systems in most neighborhoods.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionResidents report satisfaction with most garbage disposal services, highlighting effective systems in place that keep the city clean and tidy.
  • Noise and Light PollutionNoise and light pollution are areas of concern, particularly in densely populated sections of Riga. Continued focus on these issues could greatly improve urban life quality.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

Riga boasts excellent green spaces that provide a haven for nature lovers and contribute significantly to the city's environmental landscape.

High-quality drinking water is another asset for Riga, reflecting robust infrastructure that ensures clean and accessible water for all residents.

  • Green and Parks QualityThe quality of green spaces and parks in Riga is celebrated, as these areas offer invaluable recreational and environmental benefits to the community.
  • Drinking Water QualityRiga's potable water quality receives high marks from residents, indicating efficient water management systems that meet public health standards.
Worldwide
Latvia

Pollution Rankings

Riga ranks 1st on the Pollution rankings in Latvia.
The pollution ranking for Latvia is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.
Hightest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025