Crime and Pollution in Boulder

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Boulder are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 28 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 Boulder.

Crime Data in Boulder

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Boulder, Colorado, is characterized by its notably low crime levels, reflecting a sense of safety among its residents. The city has successfully maintained a crime index that speaks to an overall secure living environment.

The public perception of safety, especially during daylight and nighttime, remains high, with residents expressing confidence in their personal security and minimal concerns about crime.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesBoulder residents experience a low level of concern regarding property crimes. The data indicates a strong community trust in safety measures, with negligible anxiety over theft, car break-ins, or home burglaries.
  • Drug-Related IssuesDrug-related issues are notably minimal in Boulder, with residents perceiving these concerns as largely under control. This contributes to the city's reputation as a safe and family-friendly community.
  • Violent CrimesViolent crime rates are low, and the community exhibits very little fear of incidents such as muggings, robberies, or assaults. This sense of security enhances the overall quality of life in Boulder.
  • Public SafetyBoulder residents feel secure both day and night, showcasing a robust public safety atmosphere. The city's effective governance and community efforts bolster this positive perception.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsDespite some perception of crime rates increasing, the current levels remain comfortably low, ensuring Boulder's reputation as a safe city is well-founded and prevails among locals.
  • Specific FearsSpecific fears, such as those based on race, ethnicity, or religion, are largely absent among Boulder’s populace, reflecting a harmonious community rapport.
Worldwide
United States

Crime Rankings

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.
Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Crime Rankings

Pollution Data in Boulder

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Boulder's air quality in 2024 is commendable, with residents enjoying clean and healthy air. The city's initiatives in reducing pollution have proven effective.

Despite being a rapidly growing city, Boulder maintains moderate pollution levels, ensuring that air quality concerns remain a low priority for most residents.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)PM2.5 levels in Boulder are well within safe limits, promoting a healthy environment for all, especially vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)Similarly, PM10 levels are also maintained within comfortable ranges, highlighting Boulder's commitment to environmental health amidst urban growth.
Waste and Noise Pollution

Boulder's commendable approach to waste management has led to high satisfaction among residents, who enjoy a clean and tidy urban area.

Noise pollution is managed effectively, although some concerns persist, they don't significantly affect the quality of life.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionGarbage disposal services in Boulder are praised, with most residents expressing satisfaction with the city's waste management systems.
  • Noise and Light PollutionWhile noise pollution exists, particularly in urban centers, it is generally well controlled, contributing to Boulder’s overall livability.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

Boulder's green spaces are integral to its community well-being, with parks and recreational areas highly valued by residents.

The quality of drinking water in Boulder is exceptional, providing residents with clean, accessible water that boosts the city's quality of life.

  • Green and Parks QualityThe quality of Boulder's parks and green spaces is outstanding, offering residents an abundance of recreational opportunities and enhancing urban biodiversity.
  • Drinking Water QualityBoulder's drinking water is not only safe but also generously available, a point of pride for the city and a significant contributor to resident satisfaction.
Worldwide
United States

Pollution Rankings

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.
Hightest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Pollution Rankings