Greensboro, NC Crime Rate – Latest Statistics

If you are a permanent resident or if you are planning a trip to our beautiful city, it is helpful to know the most current Greensboro, NC crime rate statistics in order to keep you and your family safe. The state of North Carolina is about average for crime when compared to other states across the U.S. Greensboro has higher-than-average rates of crime, but that usually depends on the neighborhood.

Overall Crime Rate

As of 2023, Greensboro had 302,296 residents and a 9.7% decrease in violent crime. Last year, the total crimes against people were 1,111, and the crimes against property were 2,699 in 2024, according to the Greensboro Police Department. This is a considerable amount of crime. However, the crime rate is only one measure of safety in Greensboro since some areas of the city experience more crime than other areas.

Violent Crime Information

Recently, Greensboro had a total crime rate of about 47 crimes per 1,000 residents, which is notably higher than the national average. This breaks down into violent crime and property crime.

The violent crime rate, which includes crimes such as homicide, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault, was roughly 8.3 per 1,000 residents, or 1 in 120 people. For some context, the national violent crime rate is around 4 per 1,000 residents, meaning Greensboro’s rate is more than double the amount nationally.

Property Crime Information

Property crime (including motor vehicle, general theft, and burglary) was approximately 38 per 1,000 residents, or 1 in 26 people. For your information, this can be compared to the national median of about 19 property crimes per 1,000. This data suggests property crime is a major concern for Greensboro residents and their police department. Motor vehicle theft is especially high (about 1 in 199 residents) when compared to the lower rates from many other cities.

When examining more recent property crime trends, 2022 showed slight improvement, as the overall Greensboro crime rate dropped by 3%, and homicides decreased from 53 to 40 during the same time period.

However, violent crime has been increasing during the last five years. This increase reflects a localized spike in issues like gang activity and drug offenses. The local community has expressed a need for increased community involvement and further collaboration with police and locals to help address the criminal activity in the area.

Some of the Most Common Types of Crimes Committed in Greensboro

Property crimes are the highest reported type of crime in Greensboro. Destruction of property and shoplifting are the highest reported crimes of all property crimes committed in Greensboro.

The Least Commonly-Reported Crime in Greensboro

Homicide, the unlawful killing of someone else, was the least commonly reported crime in Greensboro. There were only 43 homicides reported in 2024, and when compared to the 74 reported in 2023, that is a substantial decrease.

Greensboro, NC Crime Rate

Of note, safety isn’t static across the city of Greensboro. Northwest neighborhoods like Forest Oaks or Northern Shores historically have lower crime rates, while southwest and central areas have higher crime rates. That means your safety could be affected dramatically depending upon where you live or visit.

Compared to other cities in North Carolina, our crime rate in Greensboro is higher on average than most, as statistically speaking, 94% of communities in the state are safer. It can be considered less safe when compared to places like Apex or Cary, but it’s not as unsafe as Fayetteville or Charlotte, which are considered to have some of the highest crime rates in the country.

Greensboro does sit in the lowest 6% for safety among all cities in the United States. However, crime rate numbers do not always paint the whole picture. The recent collaboration efforts by law enforcement in the community can take time to impact crime rate statistics.

So, while Greensboro is not among the safest cities based on its rate of crime, many people live here comfortably and the quieter areas are perfect for a planned visit.

FAQs

What Is the Safest Part of Greensboro, NC?

Safety isn’t uniform across Greensboro, but neighborhoods like Forest Oaks or Northern Shores usually have lower crime rates for violent crime. Northwest Greensboro, areas near Guilford College, and New Irving Park are known for low crime rates and strong community safety programs.

Your experience of safety could differ drastically depending on the part of the city you visit. Check with locals for helpful safety information as well.

Which Cities in North Carolina Experienced the Most Crime Last Year?

In 2024, the city that experienced the highest crime rate was Lumberton with 13,334 crimes per 100,000 residents, which is believed to be high because of the large number of crimes involving narcotics. Lumberton’s crime rate is higher than the average in North Carolina and higher than the national average.

Which City in North Carolina Had the Lowest Crime Rate Last Year?

Generally considered the safest city in North Carolina in 2025, Holly Springs has a low crime rate (only 7.3 crimes for every 1,000 residents) and a strong sense of community. It has a growing economy, boasting companies like Seqirus (a global biotech company) and healthcare facilities like WakeMed and UNC Rex hospitals. Wake Forest, Cary, Apex, and Whispering Pines also have low crime rates.

Talk More With Our Team – Let’s Discuss Greensboro, NC

After a visit to the Greensboro Arboretum or Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden, please feel free to stop by with your legal questions. Our Greensboro office is in a well-established part of town known for its suburban feel and convenient access to local amenities. Just off West Wendover Avenue and I-40, it is easy to find our office inside the Muirwood Office Center, where Suite 104 is located.

Come visit our law office at any time, or reach out online to set up a consultation with our team if you need assistance with a legal matter.