Crime and Pollution in Columbus

Crime Data in Columbus

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Columbus, Ohio features moderate crime concerns, with public opinion indicating varied perception of safety especially during nighttime. While the overall crime index remains moderate, citizens express heightened concern about the potential increase in crime rates.

Despite these anxieties, there is a reassuring trend of safety that prevails during daylight, contributing to a balanced perception of security among residents.

Some notable concerns include:

• Property Crimes - Property crimes, including home burglaries and thefts, persist as notable concerns for Columbus residents. There is a distinct public sentiment that more needs to be done to manage these issues effectively.
• Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related problems are highlighted as a significant concern in Columbus, with public perception indicating that these issues detract from community safety. It remains a pressing issue in certain neighborhoods.
• Violent Crimes - Concerns over violent crimes like assault and robbery are less pronounced but still present. The community feels somewhat shielded against violent offenses compared to other types of crime.
• Public Safety - Daytime safety perceptions are relatively strong, with Columbus residents feeling comfortable and secure in their neighborhoods during the day. However, confidence in safety decreases significantly at night, reflecting a common urban challenge.

Crime Trends and Safety

• Rising Crime Concerns - A substantial point of concern is the public's perception that crime is on the rise. This perception underscores a call for increased measures to prevent potential increases in crime rates.
• Specific Fears - Specific fears around theft, be it from homes or vehicles, and drug-related activities are more pronounced. Additionally, the fear of victimization based on racial, ethnic, or religious grounds exists, highlighting the need for inclusive safety measures.

Summary of Crime in Columbus

Columbus continues to manage its moderate crime levels actively. However, addressing property and drug-related crimes, and reassuring the community about safety, particularly during nighttime, will be crucial moving forward.

Crime Rankings

Columbus ranks 29th 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

Columbus is noteworthy for its commendable air quality and low pollution index, showcasing effective environmental strategies. Traffic and industrial outputs are managed well, resulting in healthier air quality for residents.

The community's outlook on air quality is quite positive, a testament to the city's ongoing efforts to maintain low levels of harmful particulate matter.

• PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - PM2.5 levels, although present, remain within acceptable limits, posing minimal health risks to the general population. This demonstrates good air quality maintenance in the city.
• PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - PM10 levels are observed to be moderate, typically limiting potential adverse health effects. These levels reflect the measures in place to control pollution and contribute to safer living conditions in the city.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Columbus displays remarkable waste management practices, with residents expressing high satisfaction in garbage disposal, contributing to a cleaner city environment.

Noise and light pollution present minor issues, but it remains a point of development, especially in bustling urban neighborhoods.

• Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - The satisfaction among residents concerning garbage disposal speaks to the effective waste management policies in place. This enhances the overall cleanliness of the city.
• Noise and Light Pollution - While generally managed well, noise and light pollution still concern some residents. Continued efforts to mitigate these aspects will improve the quality of urban life.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

The abundance of green spaces in Columbus enhances urban living, providing recreational areas that contribute significantly to community well-being.

Columbus boasts exceptionally high standards in drinking water quality, reassuring residents of safety and accessibility.

• Green and Parks Quality - The expanse and quality of Columbus's green spaces are highly praised, offering citizens recreational and environmental benefits.
• Drinking Water Quality - High-quality drinking water is a standout feature for Columbus, with residents consistently praising its purity and reliability. This greatly enhances the city’s livability.

Pollution Rankings

Columbus ranks 39th 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