Crime and Pollution in Durham
The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Durham are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 27 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 Durham.
Crime Data in Durham
Crime Perception and Concerns
In 2024, Durham, NC experiences moderate crime concerns among residents, with rising apprehension over property crimes and drug-related issues. While efforts have been made to improve safety, there remain significant challenges.
The perception of safety is notably different between day and night, with residents feeling relatively safe during daylight hours but expressing heightened worry when alone at night.
Some notable concerns include:
- Property Crimes - Residents of Durham express considerable anxiety about property crimes, such as theft and home burglaries. These issues contribute to a large portion of the public's concern regarding safety within the city.
- Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related activities are a prominent concern in Durham, with a noticeable impact on community safety and wellbeing, particularly in areas where drug activity is more visible.
- Violent Crimes - Durham's residents show apprehension about violent crimes, with concerns about physical safety linked to the perceived increase in violent incidents. However, these fears are less pronounced than those about property crimes.
- Public Safety - Feeling safe during daylight is common among Durham's populace, with many taking comfort in the city's daytime vibrancy. However, nighttime brings about greater caution, with worries about potential assaults and robberies.
Crime Trends and Safety
- Rising Crime Concerns - The sense that crime is on the rise in Durham is pervasive, driven by increases in property and drug-related offenses, which have heightened community awareness and calls for stronger preventive measures.
- Specific Fears - Specific fears about being mugged, insulted, or experiencing racial or ethnic discrimination persist, reflecting deeper social issues that influence perceptions of safety.
Summary of Crime in Durham
Despite ongoing safety concerns, Durham is working towards reducing crime through better policing and community programs. Continued efforts are necessary to address property crimes and drug-related issues, aiming to enhance public safety and community trust.
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.
Pollution Data in Durham
Air Quality and Pollution Levels
Air quality in Durham is generally positive, with moderate levels of particulate matter. Efforts in reducing traffic emissions and promoting clean air initiatives have contributed to these favorable conditions.
Residents continue to voice the importance of maintaining good air quality and express satisfaction with current pollution control measures.
- PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - The PM2.5 levels are maintained within healthy ranges, providing a breathable environment for most residents, though vigilance is required for sensitive groups.
- PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - PM10 levels are slightly elevated but remain manageable, indicating that Durham's air quality is relatively stable.
Waste and Noise Pollution
Noise pollution is a recognized issue in Durham, especially in busier districts where traffic and urban activities are more pronounced.
Waste management systems have improved, keeping the city relatively clean and the public generally satisfied with garbage disposal services.
- Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Garbage disposal services in Durham are rated well by residents, with effective waste management practices contributing to cleaner public spaces.
- Noise and Light Pollution - Despite improvements in waste management, noise and light pollution remain challenges, impacting residents' quality of life in denser urban areas.
Green Spaces and Water Quality
Durham boasts excellent green spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents, with parks serving as vital areas for recreation and community gatherings.
High-quality drinking water is a significant strength for Durham, with residents expressing satisfaction with accessibility and water quality.
- Green and Parks Quality - The quality of parks and green spaces in Durham is highly appreciated, offering residents essential recreational zones and environmental benefits.
- Drinking Water Quality - Durham's drinking water remains top-tier, providing safe, clean, and accessible water that is highly valued by the community.
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.
"Key Takeaways"
Durham faces challenges with property crimes and drug-related issues, affecting public safety perceptions, especially at night.
The city's environmental outlook is positive, with commendable air quality and valued green spaces, although noise pollution persists in some areas.
Efforts to enhance public safety must continue, while preserving and improving environmental successes to ensure Durham remains a livable and prosperous city.