Safety in the USA
The USA does have a higher crime rate than other developed countries, but its reputation for violence tends to be exaggerated by a local media with a liking for sensationalism. As a whole the country is a safe expat destination; those relocating to the USA must just be wary of inner city neighbourhoods or slums where most criminal activity can usually be found.
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Loose gun laws, a glaring disparity between the wealthy and the poor and high prison populations are all contributing factors to the high crime rate, but these parts to a whole still in no way mirror the gun-wielding Wild West antics found on American television and cinema.
Violent crime is more of a concern in city centres than in suburban and rural communities. However, poorer neighbourhoods where crime is more common are avoidable and down town areas and business districts are safe. Expats in the USA should become familiar with ‘good’ and ‘bad’ sections of cities before they rent or buy property as crime is much more concentrated in certain areas of every city.
Certain cities have much higher crime rates than others, but expats in the USA can expect a strong police presence everywhere. Basic safety precautions practised in every big city, such as locking car doors and avoiding walking alone or taking public transport at night, should be upheld.
Except for very wealthy and gated residential neighbourhoods, employing private security companies is rare and residents can expect quick and quality responses by police or even a local neighbourhood watch program.
There are no specific health risks associated with the USA.
Loose gun laws, a glaring disparity between the wealthy and the poor and high prison populations are all contributing factors to the high crime rate, but these parts to a whole still in no way mirror the gun-wielding Wild West antics found on American television and cinema.
Violent crime is more of a concern in city centres than in suburban and rural communities. However, poorer neighbourhoods where crime is more common are avoidable and down town areas and business districts are safe. Expats in the USA should become familiar with ‘good’ and ‘bad’ sections of cities before they rent or buy property as crime is much more concentrated in certain areas of every city.
Certain cities have much higher crime rates than others, but expats in the USA can expect a strong police presence everywhere. Basic safety precautions practised in every big city, such as locking car doors and avoiding walking alone or taking public transport at night, should be upheld.
Except for very wealthy and gated residential neighbourhoods, employing private security companies is rare and residents can expect quick and quality responses by police or even a local neighbourhood watch program.
There are no specific health risks associated with the USA.
