Clayton County, GA Crime Rate 2025- Latest Statistics

Clayton County, GA, is a core part of the Atlanta metro area, which is known for its diversity, history, shopping, and street art. If you are considering moving to Clayton County, have been impacted by crime, or simply want to learn more about crime activity, understanding the Clayton County, GA crime rate can help you protect your property, safety, and rights. If you are facing criminal charges in Clayton County, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney.

About Clayton County, GA

Clayton County, GA, is just a twenty-minute drive south of Atlanta, Georgia’s capital and largest city. It is a popular choice for families and those who want to work in Atlanta but live outside the city. The latest census data estimates that over 298,000 people live in Clayton County towns, including College Park, Forest Park, Jonesboro, Lake City, Lovejoy, Morrow, and Riverdale.

Crime Rate

The crime rate measures the amount of crime reported to law enforcement compared to the number of people who live in a specific area. It is calculated by dividing the number of crimes reported by the population. The result helps local and state government officials make policy, program, and resource decisions based on the community’s needs and how those needs change over time.

It is important to remember that a location’s crime rate does not include unreported crimes. Because of this, it is not a comprehensive picture of criminal activity in an area but rather a tool to be used with other factors, such as changes over time, what crimes are most common, and which specific areas have more crime.

The crime rate also tells not only how likely crimes are to be committed but also how likely residents are to be victims and what interventions might help.

Violent Crimes and Property Crimes

The kinds of crimes that are common in a location are just as important as the overall crime rate. This shows a clearer picture of the criminal activity in that area, as well as the impact of crime on the community and the risk to residents’ property and safety. For this reason, crime data is often separated into violent crimes and property crimes so that city councils, police departments, and other government agencies can create more effective policies.

Violent crimes include the use or threat of force, which may include weapons but does not always have to, against another person and are usually classified under assault, homicide, sexual assault, or robbery. The state takes these crimes seriously because victims are likely to be physically injured or killed in the act. Violent crime convictions often lead to severe punishments like long jail sentences and substantial fines.

Property crimes do not include force or threats but are illegal acts of taking, destroying, or vandalizing someone’s property. These crimes are commonly motivated by money and are classified as larceny, burglary, theft of motor vehicles, and arson. First-time offenders may be charged with misdemeanors, but if a property crime is committed along with a violent crime or if the offender has a previous criminal history, the penalties may be increased.

Clayton County, GA Crime Rate

In 2024, crime in Clayton County, GA, dropped by about 22% from 2023, including most violent and property crimes. There were 7,713 total crimes reported, including 6,212 property crimes and 1,578 violent crimes. These included:

• 1,085 aggravated assault reports, a 10% drop
• 28 arson reports, a 42.9% drop
• 699 burglary or breaking and entering reports, a 23.9% drop
• 270 rape reports, a 0.7% rise
• 1,200 motor vehicle theft reports, a 27.2% drop
• 26 murder and manslaughter reports, a 36.6% drop
• 285 robbery reports, a 4% drop
• 3,014 theft reports, a 21.4% drop
• 1,397 theft from motor vehicle reports, a 29.6% drop

In addition, arrests increased by 17%. The Clayton County Police Department credits community programs that help prevent crime and proactive law enforcement strategies for the significant decrease.

FAQs

Is Clayton County, GA, a Good Place to Live?

Yes, Clayton County, GA, is a good place to live. Its proximity to Atlanta and lower cost of living make it attractive to many commuters and their families, although traffic can be frustrating. In addition, some areas of the county may have more crime than others, so it is important to research carefully.

What Town in Georgia Has the Lowest Crime Rate?

Holly Springs, Georgia, has had the lowest crime rate for the second consecutive year, according to SafeWise, a security company that rates the safety of US cities. With a population of just 18,511, it has a very low crime rate, including both property crimes and violent crimes, making it an attractive place to live.

What Is the Safest Suburb in Georgia?

Some of the safest suburbs in Georgia are Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Suwanee, Tyone, and Milton, according to the Atlanta Real Estate Forum. Suburbs tend to have lower populations and lower crime rates, making them safer than other areas. It’s important for residents to remain aware of the safety trends in and around their city.

What Is the Most Common Crime in Clayton County, GA?

One of the most common crimes in Clayton County, GA, is theft. There were more theft reports in 2024 than any other crime in Clayton County. Theft is a kind of larceny, which means taking other people’s property without permission or the intention to return it. It can often include charges like shoplifting as well.

Contact a Clayton County, GA, Criminal Defense Lawyer

At Miller North & Brill, we know that when you’ve been arrested or are being investigated, your chances of a favorable outcome can be greatly increased by working with the right criminal defense lawyer. Our compassionate, award-winning legal team has more than thirty years of experience providing aggressive legal representation to clients in Georgia, and we are dedicated to making sure each client’s rights and interests are protected.

Our commitment is to devote the time and attention you deserve and tailor your legal defense strategy to your individual situation. If you’re facing criminal charges, contact Miller North & Brill right away to schedule your initial consultation and learn about your legal options.