The 32459 zip code, located in Panama City Beach, Florida, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. However, like any other area, it’s not immune to crime. To provide a comprehensive understanding of the safety in this zip code, we’ll delve into the crime statistics, compare them to national averages, and explore the types of crimes that occur in the area.
Overall Crime Rate The overall crime rate in the 32459 zip code is slightly higher than the national average. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, which collects and analyzes crime data from law enforcement agencies across the United States, the 32459 zip code reported a total of 1,436 crimes in 2020. This translates to a crime rate of 3,514.1 per 100,000 inhabitants, which is higher than the national average of 2,346.0 per 100,000 inhabitants.
Violent Crime Rate The violent crime rate in the 32459 zip code is a concern, with a rate of 547.1 per 100,000 inhabitants, which is higher than the national average of 380.6 per 100,000 inhabitants. In 2020, there were 141 reported violent crimes, including:
- 1 murder
- 14 rapes
- 34 robberies
- 92 aggravated assaults
Property Crime Rate Property crimes, such as burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft, are more common in the 32459 zip code. In 2020, there were 1,295 reported property crimes, which translates to a rate of 3,167.0 per 100,000 inhabitants. This is higher than the national average of 2,200.0 per 100,000 inhabitants.
- 154 burglaries
- 944 larcenies
- 197 motor vehicle thefts
Crime Trends Analyzing the crime trends in the 32459 zip code over the past few years reveals a mixed picture. While the overall crime rate has decreased slightly since 2018, the violent crime rate has increased. The property crime rate has remained relatively stable.
Neighborhoods and Safety The safety of different neighborhoods within the 32459 zip code varies. Some areas, such as the beachfront neighborhoods, tend to be safer and more family-friendly, while others, such as areas with higher concentrations of nightlife and commercial activity, may experience more crime.
Precautions and Tips To stay safe in the 32459 zip code, residents and visitors should take common-sense precautions, such as:
- Locking doors and windows
- Keeping valuables secure
- Avoiding walking alone at night
- Being aware of their surroundings
- Keeping an eye on their belongings, especially in crowded areas
Comparison to National Averages To put the crime statistics in the 32459 zip code into perspective, let’s compare them to national averages. The national average for violent crime is 380.6 per 100,000 inhabitants, and the national average for property crime is 2,200.0 per 100,000 inhabitants. The 32459 zip code exceeds these averages, indicating a higher crime rate.
Conclusion In conclusion, while the 32459 zip code is generally considered a safe area, it’s essential to be aware of the crime statistics and take necessary precautions to ensure personal safety. By understanding the types of crimes that occur in the area and taking steps to prevent them, residents and visitors can minimize their risk of becoming a victim.
What is the most common type of crime in the 32459 zip code?
+According to the crime statistics, larceny is the most common type of crime in the 32459 zip code, accounting for over 70% of all reported crimes.
Is the 32459 zip code a safe area for families?
+While the 32459 zip code has a higher crime rate than some other areas, it can still be a safe place for families. However, it's essential to take common-sense precautions and be aware of the surroundings, especially in areas with higher concentrations of nightlife and commercial activity.
What can I do to stay safe in the 32459 zip code?
+To stay safe in the 32459 zip code, it's recommended to take precautions such as locking doors and windows, keeping valuables secure, avoiding walking alone at night, and being aware of your surroundings.
By following these tips and being mindful of the crime statistics, residents and visitors can enjoy a safe and pleasant experience in the 32459 zip code.
