Crime and Pollution in Oakland

Crime Data in Oakland

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Oakland faces a high level of crime, with significant public concerns about safety, especially after dark. The crime index reflects these challenges with a high score, indicative of the ongoing issues faced by the community.

The perception of crime increasing is strong among residents, which aligns with the reported data indicating substantial issues, particularly around violent and property crimes.

Some notable concerns include:

• Property Crimes - Property crimes are extremely concerning in Oakland, with significant worries about vehicle theft and home break-ins. This sense of vulnerability affects daily life for many residents, making it a focal point for security improvements.
• Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related crimes are another critical issue in Oakland, posing severe impacts on community safety and perception. Efforts to address drug-related issues remain a top priority for improving the overall quality of life.
• Violent Crimes - The fear of violent crimes, including mugging and robbery, is notably high in Oakland. This contributes to the substantial anxiety about personal safety, further highlighting the need for effective crime prevention strategies.
• Public Safety - Public safety concerns in Oakland are pronounced, with residents feeling significantly safer during the day than at night. This stark contrast underscores the need for enhanced safety measures and community vigilance after dark.

Crime Trends and Safety

• Rising Crime Concerns - The city is experiencing a palpable perception of rising crime, with both data and public sentiment pointing towards an increasing problem, especially in terms of property crimes and drug activity.
• Specific Fears - While violence based on ethnic, religious, or racial identities is a less pervasive concern, the worries about theft and violence remain strong. This points to a need for focused community-based solutions to foster inclusivity and reduce crime.

Summary of Crime in Oakland

Despite the ongoing high crime rates, Oakland is actively working towards initiatives aimed at reducing crime and improving public safety. Focused attention on property crimes and drug issues will be crucial in creating a safer and more secure environment for residents.

Crime Rankings

Oakland ranks 6th on the Crime rankings in United States. The crime ranking by city for the United States 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.

1. Memphis

Tennessee

2. Detroit

Michigan

3. Baltimore

Maryland

4. Albuquerque

New Mexico

5. Saint Louis

Missouri

6. Oakland

California

7. New Orleans

Louisiana

8. Milwaukee

Wisconsin

9. Philadelphia

Pennsylvania

10. Chicago

Illinois

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Oakland's air quality in 2024 shows signs of improvement but remains a concern due to urban pollution sources. The city is working to manage pollution levels across various districts.

Overall, air quality is perceived as satisfactory, yet there are ongoing challenges related to particulate matter that require attention.

• PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - PM2.5 levels in Oakland are generally within acceptable standards but pose potential health risks for sensitive groups. Continued monitoring and reduction efforts are necessary.
• PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - The PM10 readings are slightly higher, pointing to ongoing needs for managing and mitigating pollution from urban and industrial sources in the city.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Noise pollution is a manageable issue in Oakland, though it remains a concern in specific neighborhoods. Addressing noise along with air quality can improve livability.

Satisfaction with garbage disposal systems is generally positive, yet some communities desire better cleanliness and waste management solutions.

• Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Oakland's waste management is viewed favorably, though enhancing efficiency and coverage can address lingering dissatisfaction in some areas.
• Noise and Light Pollution - Noise pollution is noted as a moderate issue, with light pollution also affecting quality of life. Strategies to reduce these impacts are important for overall urban well-being.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

Green spaces in Oakland serve as vital respites for residents, contributing positively to community wellness and environmental quality.

The city's drinking water is of high quality and accessibility, representing a significant advantage for resident health and satisfaction.

• Green and Parks Quality - The quality of green spaces in Oakland is well-regarded, offering important recreational opportunities and helping to balance urban density.
• Drinking Water Quality - Oaklanders enjoy high-quality drinking water, with broad satisfaction regarding both its taste and safety, boosting the city's overall livability.

Pollution Rankings

Oakland ranks 22nd on the Pollution rankings in United States. The pollution ranking for the United States 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.

1. Los Angeles

California

2. Salt Lake City

Utah

3. Detroit

Michigan

4. New York

New York

5. Phoenix

Arizona

6. Houston

Texas

7. New Orleans

Louisiana

8. Las Vegas

Nevada

9. Chicago

Illinois

10. San Francisco

California