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This research examines how direct experiences of victimization and local crime rates affect perceptions of safety in neighborhoods.

August 13, 2026Social Science QuarterlyOpen Access

Exposure to Crime and Perceptions of Crime in Major U.S. Cities

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Surveys assess how crime experiences influence safety perceptions in neighborhoods, indicating no spillover effects.

This research examines how direct experiences of victimization and local crime rates affect perceptions of safety in neighborhoods.
Analyzed survey data from residents of large U.S. cities regarding their safety perceptions and crime experiences.
Paired victimization responses with local crime rate data from Zip Code Tabulation Areas (ZCTAs).
Used multiple regression models to evaluate the relationships between crime exposure and perceptions.
Victimization experiences and local crime rates are predictors of how safe individuals feel, though the effects are modest.
Violent victimization is particularly correlated with feelings of safety.
Exposure to crime in one area does not influence perceptions of crime in other areas.

Doherty et al. (2026) studied this question.

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