Crime and Pollution in Knoxville

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Knoxville are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 48 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 Knoxville.

Crime Data in Knoxville

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Knoxville experiences a moderate level of crime with ongoing public concerns about certain issues. The city's crime index indicates a moderate crime level, suggesting that there are notable perceptions regarding safety.

Residents report feeling generally safe during the day, though there are still some crime-related anxieties, especially concerning the rise in certain offenses.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesWhile property crimes such as thefts are not perceived as extreme threats, there still exists a slight caution among residents. The data suggests that while these crimes are present, they do not overwhelm the community’s sense of safety.
  • Drug-Related IssuesDrug-related crimes represent a moderate concern in Knoxville. The community acknowledges the presence of these issues, which contribute to the overall perception of safety in various neighborhoods.
  • Violent CrimesViolent crimes are perceived as a lesser concern among Knoxville's residents. Despite not being a primary issue, there is still a focus on maintaining community safety and order.
  • Public SafetyResidents of Knoxville generally feel safe during the day, with the safety index reflecting a sense of security. However, concerns slightly increase at night, although they remain moderated compared to other urban cities.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsThere is a notable perception that crime is on the rise, with specific focus on how these increases may affect various neighborhoods, demanding attention from local authorities.
  • Specific FearsFears around car theft, mugging, and racial or ethnic discrimination are notably low in Knoxville. However, keeping these fears in check remains important to sustaining community confidence.
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 Knoxville

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Knoxville's air quality in 2024 shows mixed results, with both positive steps in certain areas and challenges that continue to present themselves. The pollution index suggests a moderate standing, indicative of fluctuating air quality.

Particulate matter levels such as PM2.5 and PM10 contribute to these concerns and highlight areas needing monitoring to safeguard community health.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)The PM2.5 levels, while mostly within acceptable limits, indicate potential health concerns, particularly during periods of high pollution where sensitive groups should remain cautious.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)PM10 levels reflect a moderate presence of physical pollutants, which pose varying degrees of health risks. Controlling emissions continues to be important for enhancing air quality.
Waste and Noise Pollution

Knoxville residents report satisfaction with garbage disposal services, reflecting positive waste management practices that enhance the city's cleanliness.

Conversely, noise and light pollution challenges, particularly in developed areas, underscore the impact of urban activity on life quality.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionKnoxville's garbage disposal processes have been rated positively, suggesting effective systems in place that reduce public concern in this domain.
  • Noise and Light PollutionUrban expansion contributes to noise and light pollution, manifesting more in lively districts, prompting some residents to advocate for more effective urban planning solutions.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

The quality of Knoxville's green spaces stands out as a positive attribute, offering residents recreational and environmental benefits amidst urban settings.

Drinking water quality and accessibility receive mixed responses, with room for improvement to meet city-wide expectations of purity and reliability.

  • Green and Parks QualityParks and green spaces in Knoxville are valued by citizens for their availability and quality, crucial for recreation and ecological balance.
  • Drinking Water QualityWhile Knoxville's drinking water quality is generally satisfactory, ensuring consistent purity remains critical to maintaining resident satisfaction and public confidence.
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