Albuquerque crime rate has been a topic of concern for residents and officials alike. In 2024, the city continues to grapple with public safety challenges, though some positive trends have emerged.
According to recent data, the entire USA has seen a 13% decrease in homicides during the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
This reduction is part of a broader trend observed across major U.S. cities. Additionally, aggravated assaults and gun assaults have declined by 7% and 18% respectively.
Despite these improvements, Albuquerque’s crime rates remain higher than the national average. The city’s violent crime rate is 51 per 1,000 residents, significantly above the U.S. average of 22.7.
Property crime also continues to be a concern, with a rate of 85.3 per 1,000 residents. These statistics underscore the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and community leaders in their efforts to enhance public safety.
Current Crime Trends
Albuquerque has experienced a decrease in violent crime in 2024. This reduction is particularly evident in certain categories of violent offenses.
Gun-related incidents have shown improvement. The gun assault rate in the first half of 2024 was 18% lower than the same period in 2023. April and May saw significant decreases of 19% and 23% respectively.
Comparative Analysis with Previous Years
When comparing 2024 to previous years, Albuquerque shows mixed results. The gun assault rate in early 2024 was 1% higher than the first half of 2019, indicating a slight increase over a five-year period.
Violent crime rates have improved since 2021. The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Albuquerque was 1 in 72 in 2021, suggesting progress has been made in recent years.
To track these changes, the city maintains a crime mapping service. This tool, when operational, provides detailed insights into crime patterns across Albuquerque neighborhoods.
Homicide Rates
Albuquerque’s homicide rates have fluctuated over the past few years. In 2024, the city recorded 89 homicides, a slight decrease from the previous year’s 94 cases according to police reports.
The homicide rate per 100,000 residents stands at 15.8, which is higher than the national average of 6.5. Gang-related violence accounts for approximately 30% of homicides in the city.
Domestic violence-related homicides have seen a troubling increase, rising by 18% compared to 2023.
Assault Incidents
Aggravated assault remains a significant concern in Albuquerque. The city reported 4,672 aggravated assault cases in 2024, a 7% increase from the previous year.
Simple assault incidents totaled 8,945, showing a marginal decrease of 2% compared to 2023 according to city police reports.
Key factors contributing to assault cases include:
- Substance abuse (40% of cases)
- Domestic disputes (35% of cases)
- Gang-related conflicts (15% of cases)
Robbery and Burglary Figures
The data for 2024 shows a slight decrease in robbery rates in Albuquerque, with 1,845 incidents reported, reflecting a 5% reduction from the previous year.
However, it’s important to note that while the overall number of robberies has declined, the use of firearms in these crimes has seen an 8% increase, indicating a shift towards more dangerous confrontations.
Commercial robberies continue to dominate, making up 60% of the cases, while residential robberies account for the remaining 40%.
In contrast, burglary incidents in Albuquerque have risen by 3%, totaling 7,234 cases in 2024. Residential burglaries are the most common, constituting 70% of these incidents.
Theft and Larceny
Theft and larceny continue to be prevalent issues in Albuquerque.
In 2024, the city’s property crime index stands at 85.3, significantly higher than the national average of 35.4.
This index indicates a high frequency of theft-related incidents according to the same source.
Retail theft has seen a notable increase. Shoplifting reports have risen by 15% compared to the previous year. Residential burglaries, while still common, have decreased slightly.
Motor Vehicle Theft Rates
Albuquerque has struggled with high rates of motor vehicle theft for several years. The 2024 data shows a slight decrease from previous peaks, but numbers remain concerning.
The city recorded approximately 7,000 stolen vehicles in the past year. This represents a 5% decrease from 2023 but still places Albuquerque among the top U.S. cities for car theft rates as per Neighborhoodscout.
Popular targets include older model sedans and pickup trucks. Newer vehicles with advanced anti-theft systems have seen lower theft rates.
Law enforcement has increased public awareness campaigns, encouraging residents to use steering wheel locks and other deterrents.
Vandalism Incidents
Vandalism remains a persistent issue in Albuquerque, affecting both public and private property. Graffiti continues to be the most common form of vandalism reported.
In 2024, the city recorded approximately 5,500 vandalism incidents. This represents a marginal increase of 2% from the previous year.
Hotspots include abandoned buildings, public parks, and areas with low nighttime foot traffic.
The city has invested in rapid graffiti removal programs and increased lighting in problem areas. Community clean-up initiatives have also been organized to combat the issue. Despite these efforts, vandalism continues to drain city resources and affect neighborhood aesthetics.
Most Dangerous Neighborhoods
1. Quigley Park
According to AreaVibes, Quigley Park in Albuquerque is considered one of the more dangerous neighborhoods in 2024, with a violent crime rate significantly higher than the city average.
Specifically, the neighborhood experiences violent crime rates 331% above the Albuquerque average, with an alarming 5,944 incidents per 100,000 people.
This high crime rate, combined with other socio-economic challenges, makes it a hotspot for criminal activity compared to other parts of the city
- Population: 745
- Violent Crime Rate: 5,944 crimes per 100,000 people
- Comparison to Albuquerque: 331% more crime than the city average
2. La Mesa
In 2024, La Mesa, a neighborhood in Albuquerque, continues to face significant safety challenges, with crime rates much higher than the national and state averages, Crime Grade reports. The violent crime rate in La Mesa is 1,132% above the national average, and residents have a 1 in 8 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
Property crimes, including theft and burglary, are also prevalent. The area is ranked in the 6th percentile for safety, meaning 94% of neighborhoods in the U.S. are safer than La Mesa.
While some parts of the neighborhood, particularly the northwest, are considered safer, the southeast areas experience more frequent crimes.
- Population: 6,415
- Violent Crime Rate: 4,555 crimes per 100,000 people
- Comparison to Albuquerque: 230% more crime than the city average
3. Montgomery Heights
The neighborhood experiences a violent crime rate that is 1051% above the national average, and residents have a 1 in 7 chance of becoming a victim of any crime, AreaVibes reports.
Violent crimes such as assault and robbery are particularly common, and property crimes, including burglary and vehicle theft, also occur at high rates.
- Population: 516
- Violent Crime Rate: 4,257 crimes per 100,000 people
- Comparison to Albuquerque: 208% more crime than the city average
4. Jackson Area
AreaVibes reports around 4,128 violent crimes per 100,000 people, which is almost double the citywide average.
Property crime, including theft and burglary, is also prevalent, contributing to an overall crime rate that makes the Jackson Area less safe than many other areas in New Mexicoโ
- Population: 984
- Violent Crime Rate: 4,128 crimes per 100,000 people
- Comparison to Albuquerque: 199% more crime than the city average
5. Crestview Bluff
Statistics show that violent crime in this area is 178% higher than the Albuquerque average, meaning residents face a 1 in 11 chance of becoming a victim of a crime.
Property crime rates are also elevated, and the overall crime rate is 313% above the national average, making it one of the less safe areas in the city.
- Population: 1,797
- Violent Crime Rate: 3,835 crimes per 100,000 people
- Comparison to Albuquerque: 178% more crime than the city average
6. Elder Homestead
In 2024, Elder Homestead in Albuquerque is considered one of the more dangerous neighborhoods, with crime rates significantly higher than the city and national averages.
The violent crime rate is 167% above the Albuquerque average, and residents have a 1 in 8 chance of being a victim of crime, which includes a high prevalence of both violent and property crimes, statistics show.
This neighborhood struggles with systemic challenges contributing to these elevated crime levels, making it one of the riskier areas in the city.
- Population: 1,514
- Violent Crime Rate: 3,690 crimes per 100,000 people
- Comparison to Albuquerque: 167% more crime than the city average
7. Enchanted Park
Violent crime in the neighborhood is reported by AreaVibes to be 783% above the national average, with residents facing a 1 in 13 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
Property crime, including theft and vehicle theft, is also prevalent, contributing to its overall crime risk.
- Population: 1,179
- Violent Crime Rate: 3,266 crimes per 100,000 people
- Comparison to Albuquerque: 137% more crime than the city average
8. Loma Del Rey
Loma Del Rey has a violent crime rate of 3,205 incidents per 100,000 residents, according to statistics. This is about 132% higher than the city’s average, contributing to its ranking among Albuquerque’s high-crime areas.
Although the neighborhood has certain amenities and an above-average cost of living, the elevated crime levels make it a concern for residents and visitors alike.
- Population: 2,473
- Violent Crime Rate: 3,205 crimes per 100,000 people
- Comparison to Albuquerque: 132% more crime than the city average
9. Skyview West
Violent crime in this area is 131% higher than the Albuquerque average, with residents facing a 1 in 9 chance of becoming a victim of any crime, AreaVibes reports.
The rate of violent crimes, such as assault and robbery, is particularly high, making it one of the more dangerous neighborhoods in the city. Additionally, property crime rates, including vehicle theft, are also notably elevated.
- Population: 1,211
- Violent Crime Rate: 3,186 crimes per 100,000 people
- Comparison to Albuquerque: 131% more crime than the city average
10. Grande Heights
Grande Heights in Albuquerque has become a particularly dangerous area in 2024, with crime rates significantly higher than the national average.
Violent crime in the neighborhood is 719% above the U.S. average, and residents face a 1 in 19 chance of becoming a victim of crime, as per statistics.
Despite these concerning statistics, Grande Heights is still safer than 52% of cities in New Mexico.
- Population: 194
- Violent Crime Rate: 3,028 crimes per 100,000 people
- Comparison to Albuquerque: 119% more crime than the city average
Safest Neighborhoods in Albuquerque
Valley Gardens
Valley Gardens boasts a crime rate of only 275 per 100,000 people, which is 88% lower than the city average. This family-friendly area is also home to Pajarito Elementary School, one of the top-rated schools in the city.
Desert Spring Flower
One of Albuquerque’s safest neighborhoods, Desert Spring Flower has a crime rate that is 90% lower than the city average and 77% lower than the national average. It’s known for its attractive residential environment and strong sense of community.
North Albuquerque Acres
Nestled near the Sandia Mountains, North Albuquerque Acres offers scenic beauty alongside safety. The crime rate here is 87% lower than the city average. This area also features the prominent Albuquerque New Mexico Temple, making it a sought-after place to live.
Neighborhood Socioeconomic Status
The socioeconomic status of neighborhoods strongly influences local crime rates in Albuquerque. Lower-income areas tend to experience higher rates of both violent and property crimes.
Factors contributing to higher crime rates in disadvantaged neighborhoods include:
- Limited access to resources
- Inadequate public services
- Higher population density
- Lack of community investment
Community policing efforts and targeted social programs have shown success in reducing crime rates in some lower-income neighborhoods. Improving access to social services, healthcare, and recreational facilities can help address underlying issues contributing to criminal activity.
Law Enforcement and Public Safety Initiatives
The Albuquerque Police Department has adopted data-driven approaches to law enforcement. They have expanded the Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC) to improve rapid response capabilities and intelligence gathering.
Officers now use predictive analytics to identify crime hotspots and deploy resources more effectively. This technology-enhanced policing has led to faster response times and more targeted interventions.
The department has also increased its use of body cameras and implemented de-escalation training programs. These measures aim to improve accountability and reduce instances of excessive force.
Community Programs
Albuquerque has launched several community-oriented initiatives to foster trust between residents and law enforcement. The Albuquerque Community Safety Department now responds to certain 911 calls, sending social workers and trained professionals to handle mental health crises.
This program has handled over 80,000 calls, freeing up police resources for more serious criminal matters. Neighborhood watch programs have been revitalized, encouraging residents to play an active role in community safety.
Investment in Public Safety
Albuquerque has significantly increased its investment in public safety infrastructure and personnel. The city has allocated funds to hire additional police officers, aiming to bring the force to full strength.
New equipment, including advanced surveillance technology and updated patrol vehicles, has been purchased to enhance law enforcement capabilities. The city has also invested in modernizing the criminal justice system, addressing bottlenecks in case processing and court procedures.
Funds have been directed towards rehabilitation programs and re-entry services for ex-offenders, aiming to reduce recidivism rates. These investments reflect a comprehensive approach to public safety, addressing both immediate crime concerns and long-term prevention strategies.
Use of Crime Data and Technology
The Albuquerque Police Department employs predictive policing algorithms to anticipate crime patterns. These algorithms analyze historical crime data, demographic information, and environmental factors to identify high-risk areas and times.
Officers use this intelligence to optimize patrol routes and resource allocation. The system helps focus efforts on crime hotspots, potentially preventing incidents before they occur.
Critics argue that predictive policing may perpetuate biases in existing crime data. The department continually refines its models to address these concerns and ensure fair policing practices.
Surveillance and Monitoring Innovations
Albuquerque has invested heavily in surveillance technology, including a network of over 10,000 cameras throughout the city. This extensive system aids in real-time crime monitoring and post-incident investigations.
License plate readers along major roadways track vehicle movements, assisting in locating stolen cars and suspects. Acoustic gunshot detection systems pinpoint firearm discharges, enabling rapid response to shooting incidents.
Privacy advocates express concerns about the scope of surveillance. The city implements strict data retention policies and access controls to balance public safety with individual privacy rights.
Effectiveness of Digital Tools
Digital crime mapping tools enable the visualization of crime patterns across Albuquerque. These maps help residents stay informed about neighborhood safety and assist law enforcement in identifying emerging trends.
The integration of body-worn cameras has improved officer accountability and evidence collection. Video footage provides crucial context in investigations and legal proceedings.
Data-driven approaches have shown promise in reducing certain types of crime. For example, targeted interventions based on analytics have contributed to a 15.2% decrease in reported violent crime in early 2024 compared to the previous year.
Challenges remain in fully utilizing these technologies. Ongoing training and system upgrades are necessary to maximize their effectiveness in Albuquerque’s crime reduction efforts.
Impact of Crime on Residents
Albuquerque Crime rate is notably high compared to other U.S. cities. This reality impacts how residents view their safety and community.
Many Albuquerque residents report feeling unsafe in certain areas or at night. This perception can lead to changes in behavior, such as avoiding specific neighborhoods or limiting outdoor activities after dark.
While some U.S. cities are recognized for their low crime rates and safety, Albuquerque struggles with maintaining a similar reputation.
Local media coverage of criminal incidents contributes to heightened awareness and concern among residents. News reports often highlight violent crimes, reinforcing fears and shaping public opinion.
Community initiatives and neighborhood watch programs have emerged in response to crime concerns. These efforts aim to foster a sense of security and encourage resident involvement in crime prevention.
Real Estate and Property Values
Crime rates play a significant role in Albuquerque’s real estate market. Areas with higher crime rates typically experience lower property values and reduced demand from potential buyers.
Crime mapping tools provided by the Albuquerque Police Department allow residents and potential homebuyers to assess crime levels in specific neighborhoods. This information often influences housing decisions and property investments.
Real estate agents in Albuquerque must navigate the impact of crime statistics on property marketability. They may highlight security features or emphasize proximity to low-crime areas when listing properties in affected neighborhoods.
Comparison with National Crime Rates
Albuquerque crime rate in 2024 differ significantly from national averages. The city’s violent crime rate is notably higher than the U.S. average, with 13.88 incidents per 1,000 residents compared to the national rate of 7.8 per 1,000.
Property crime in Albuquerque also exceeds national levels. This includes offenses such as burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft.
Key comparisons between Albuquerque and national crime rates:
- Violent Crime: 78% higher in Albuquerque
- Property Crime: 123% higher in Albuquerque
- Total Crime: 114% higher in Albuquerque
These statistics indicate that Albuquerque faces greater crime challenges than many other U.S. cities. The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting program provides the data for these comparisons.
It’s important to note that while Albuquerque’s rates are higher, the city has implemented various crime reduction strategies. These efforts aim to bring local crime rates closer to national averages in the coming years.
Law enforcement and community initiatives continue to work towards improving safety in Albuquerque. Regular monitoring and analysis of crime data help guide these efforts to address specific areas of concern.
References
- Crime Trends in U.S. Cities: Mid-Year 2024 Update
- U.S. Attorney General speaks on decrease in violent crime in Albuquerque
- Albuquerque, NM Crime Rates
- City of Albuquerque Crime Statistics
- APD posts monthly crime stats
- Most Dangerous Neighborhoods In Albuquerque, NM
- Safest Places in La Mesa Albuquerque
- Albuquerque data shows big increase in crime reports, crimes against society
- ABQ Outlines Metro Crime Initiative for 2024 Legislative Session
- Albuquerque mayor talks public safety, housing at 2024 State of the City Address
- Leaders seek to expand crime-fighting net of cameras and sensors beyond New Mexicoโs largest city
- FBI Releases 2024 Quarterly Crime Report and Use-of-Force Data Update
