Pittsburgh, recognized as the Steel City, boasts a noteworthy history, vibrant culture, and sports scene. Surprisingly, it stands out as one of the safest cities in the nation. A recent analysis conducted by VisitPITTSBURGH, the official tourism agency of the region, reveals Pittsburgh’s distinction as the top-ranked city for property crime safety and the third safest for violent crime among a set of 19 competing cities. This study places Pittsburgh within the top ten safest cities for property crime and in the top 15 for violent crime nationwide, among 150 other areas.
How was the study carried out?
Conducted by 2Synergize, a consulting firm specializing in destination marketing, the study compared 2022 data from a three-mile radius around the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh. This information was juxtaposed against a national market comparison of 65 cities and a competitive set of 19 cities, including well-known competitors like Columbus, Indianapolis, and Baltimore, as well as destinations like Portland, Reno, Salt Lake City, and Tampa Bay. The study sourced data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Program and the U.S. Census Bureau.
Why is Pittsburgh considered so safe?
Several factors contribute to Pittsburgh’s safety, including its geography, demographics, economy, and community. Situated at the convergence of three rivers, the city benefits from natural boundaries that restrict urban sprawl. With a relatively low population density of about 2,300 people per square mile, compared to the national average of 3,100, Pittsburgh maintains a safe environment. The city boasts a diverse and educated population, with over 30% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a significant presence of immigrants and refugees. Pittsburgh’s resilient and diversified economy, driven by sectors like health care, education, technology, and finance, further supports its safety. Additionally, the city fosters social cohesion and trust through a vibrant community, featuring numerous civic organizations, cultural institutions, and volunteer opportunities.
What are the advantages of being a safe city?
The safety of Pittsburgh brings multiple benefits to both residents and visitors. Safety plays a pivotal role in attracting and retaining talent, businesses, and investments, contributing to an enhanced quality of life. It also positively influences tourism, shaping a favorable image and reputation for the city, thereby enticing more people to explore its attractions, events, and amenities. According to VisitPITTSBURGH, tourism is a crucial industry for the city, generating over $6 billion in economic impact and supporting more than 40,000 jobs in 2022.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh takes pride in being a safe city, a characteristic attributed to its unique qualities, diverse population, and collaborative spirit. The safety of Pittsburgh is an asset poised to drive growth, prosperity, and increased opportunities for the city. Beyond being the Steel City, Pittsburgh has earned its place as the Safe City.
READ MORE
This City in Nevada Is Smoking More Weed Than Anywhere Else in the State