Lafayette, LA Crime Rate 2024 – Latest Statistics

Lafayette is known for skillfully mixing urban amenities with the influences of Cajun and Creole cultures. Though this vibrant city has a plethora of great aspects, it also has some drawbacks. One major concern is the crime rate. The Lafayette, LA crime rate is, unfortunately, higher than the national average. Lafayette is not yet at the most severe levels, but the crime rate is still relatively high in some areas.

Lafayette Crime Rankings

Crime indices range from 1-100, with 1 being the lowest crime rate and 100 being the highest crime rate. The US average is 22 in violent crimes and 35 in property crimes. The city of Lafayette reported a violent crime score of 38 and a property crime score of 73, each above the national average.

Lafayette Demographics

Demographics can provide some insight into the dynamics of the city and how they affect the crime rate. Lafayette has a total population of 121,333 as of 2024. Some key demographics about Lafayette include:

• Highest level of education. Roughly a quarter of the Lafayette population holds a bachelor’s degree, another quarter has completed some college, and about 19% are high school graduates.
• Race. The Lafayette population is 61% white, 29% black, 6% two or more races, and 2% Asian.
• Income level. The average household income for families is $112,000.
• Marital status. Overall, roughly 42% of the Lafayette population is married, 6% widowed, 10% divorced, and 40% never married.
• Cost of living. Lafayette’s cost of living is lower than the national average. A lower cost of living can help reduce the crime rate. In cities that have a high cost of living, residents could turn to fraud and theft as means to get what they need.

Violent Crime Versus Property Crime

The crime rate is generally measured by the rates of violent crimes per 100,000 residents and property crimes per 100,000 residents. It’s important to understand the distinction between a violent crime and a property crime.

• Violent crime. A violent crime typically includes four main offenses. Those are robbery, aggravated assault, rape, and manslaughter.
• Property crime. Property crimes can include offenses such as burglary, motor vehicle theft, arson, or larceny theft. These crimes typically involve the theft of property or money from a victim, but there is no threat of force or force used against the victim.

It’s important to note that if you have committed any of these crimes, you should speak with an experienced attorney immediately for help. Speaking with a personal injury attorney can also be helpful if you have been a victim of either a violent crime or a property crime.

FAQs

Q: Is Lafayette, Louisiana, a Good Place to Live?

A: Lafayette, located in southern Louisiana, is a great place to live. In addition to being the fifth largest community in Louisiana, Lafayette has an ethnically diverse culture and a large population of well-educated community members compared to the rest of the state and the nation as a whole. Lafayette is considered a great place to live, with many opportunities for social connections and activities.

Q: Do I Need an Attorney if I Have Been Accused of a Crime in Lafayette?

A: It is generally advised to speak with an attorney if you have been accused of a crime in Lafayette. This is especially true if you have been formally charged with a crime. A criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the criminal justice system, potentially improving the outcome by getting the charges against you reduced or dismissed. They can also be a source of support, ensuring you feel less alone as you navigate this difficult process.

Q: What Are Some of the Safest Places to Live in Lafayette, Louisiana?

A: Some of the safest places to live in Lafayette include Acadiana Wood, Johnston St, Pont Des Mouton, Ossun, and New Flanders. Most of the areas with the greatest crime rates in Lafayette are located near the center of the town. These safer neighborhoods are on the outskirts of the town, away from the densely populated areas with higher crime rates. Even though Lafayette is only safer than three percent of US cities, there are still safer areas within the city.

Q: Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help if I Have Been a Victim of a Violent Crime?

A: A personal injury attorney can help if you have been a victim of a violent crime. Though the accused will likely be processed and charged through criminal court, there are instances where they can also be held civilly liable for their actions and the damage they caused. A personal injury attorney can evaluate your situation and determine if you have a valid claim, then support you if you choose to progress with your lawsuit.

Q: How Dangerous Is Lafayette?

A: Lafayette can be a dangerous city. Each major city has parts of town that are more dangerous than others, and Lafayette is no exception. In general, residents in Lafayette have a 1 in 37 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime or a property crime. The overall crime rate in Lafayette is higher than the national average. For perspective, when compared to California cities of similar sizes, Lafayette has a 38% higher crime rate.

A Legal Team to Support You

No city is all good or all bad, and Lafayette is no exception. Though some aspects of the city leave some to be desired, the rich culture and active social scene make it a worthwhile place to live. Our city is full of colorful and unique individuals—individuals who deserve legal representation when the need arises.

The legal team at the Law Office of R. Scott Iles has experience helping Louisiana residents resolve their legal issues. We are dedicated to helping Lafayette residents who have been victims of illegal activity. It’s important that victims pursue the legal compensation that they deserve for the perpetrator’s wrongful actions. Those accused of committing a crime also deserve legal representation to ensure their rights are protected throughout the process.

Our legal team can help in these matters. Contact our office today to see how our team can support you.