Is Murfreesboro Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Murfreesboro is a fast-growing center of Rutherford County located directly off of Interstate Highway 24.

It sits just 30 miles southeast of Nashville.

Murfreesboro, and the entire region of Tennessee, are known for their rich American Civil War history.

Murfreesboro is home to Stones River National Battlefield and Stones River Cemetery, a final resting place for over 6,000 Union soldiers.

This small city was the original state capital from 1818 to 1826, before Nashville replaced it.

A relatively safe city, Murfreesboro is the largest suburb of Nashville, with a population nearing 175,000, and is the geographic center of Tennessee.

The commute into Nashville averages 30 to 40 minutes.

In addition to being a country music mecca, Nashville offers additional sights, a strong arts community, and world-class healthcare.

The proximity to Nashville is a strong draw for Murfreesboro.

Home to Middle Tennessee University, Murfreesboro is a young and vibrant city with a median age of 29 years and is known for its outdoor activities and beautiful natural setting.

However, there is always some concern for the safety of any growing city.

Warnings & Dangers in Murfreesboro

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Overall, Murfreesboro is a safe city. Criminal activity in Murfreesboro affects 1 in 33. Based on FBI crime data, Murfreesboro is slightly more dangerous than the national average. Relative to Tennessee, Murfreesboro's crime rates are at the highest at 25%.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Murfreesboro has limited rideshare services and several local taxi companies and private transport companies. Before accepting a service, verify your fare, especially on longer rides to the airport or into Nashville. To stay safe, confirm legitimate transportation companies and be aware of the people around you. Best practices include counting the expected amount of a cab fare or bus fare before boarding, preventing a traveler from flashing cash.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Pickpockets usually target wallets, cell phones, and other valuables from people's clothing and bags. In Murfreesboro, robbery and petty theft are considered crimes of opportunity. To minimize chances of being a victim, keep valuables close and do not set purses or backpacks on the backs of chairs.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Murfreesboro sits in the Tennessee Valley. Storms during the spring and summer may have tornados and strong winds. Known Rains and flash floods are common. Keeping up with local weather reports and emergency services is recommended.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

A mugging is a theft from a person in public. Murfreesboro rates lower than both Tennessee and the United States in robbery, according to police statistics. The best possible defense to being mugged is to be aware of your surroundings and conceal all valuables.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Terrorists are individuals or groups inspired to act by a specific ideology. These attacks usually target public areas. Following instructions and staying up to date on local news can protect you from danger.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

There are few, if any, scams associated with Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The exception would be panhandling, a widespread problem and beggars can be quite aggressive in some areas.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

There is a reasonable risk of muggings and theft regardless of gender. The danger in Murfreesboro, specifically to women, is low or equal to most cities.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

Murfreesboro receives its fresh-water supply from two sources, the East Fork of the Stones River and the J. Percy Priest Lake. Murfreesboro fluoridates its water to minimize dental cavities in children and those with poor dental care. Fluoride levels follow United States' federal guidelines - 0.70 mg/L.

Safest Places to Visit in Murfreesboro

People who live in Murfreesboro consider the southwest part of the city the safest.

The northeast part of Murfreesboro has fewer reported crime cases – 384 per year.

Murfreesboro is an outdoor enthusiasts’ paradise –the Greenway System, 40 miles of trails, bridges, and boardwalks, provides access to hiking, walking, running, wading, bicycling, skating, nature photography, picnicking, birdwatching, and fishing and is safe with caution during the daylight hours.

The Stones River is accessible for paddlers, and two bark parks allow off-leash exercise for pets.

The Murfreesboro Greenway System connects parks, neighborhoods, and businesses and serves as a conservation corridor.

And for the less active traveler, Murfreesboro boasts an incredible arrangement of historical sites and Civil War memorials.

Settled in 1811, near the end of the American Revolution, this 39 square mile town offers a unique perspective on United States history.

A famous tourist sight, Cannonsburgh Village, is an authentic representation of 100 years of rural Tennessee life circa the 1830s and is open daily.

Middle Tennessee University offers men’s and women’s games as part of the NCAA and East Conference USA if you enjoy sports.

One of the most unique is the Wat Lao Buddhist Temple, a beautiful, active place of education and worship.

Places to Avoid in Murfreesboro

Generally, according to Murfreesboro police crime statistics, downtown Murfreesboro and the east part of the city are the most dangerous, averaging about 1,392 reported crime cases annually.

Murfreesboro 21 parks and designated recreational areas have a higher crime potential due to the nearby transient and low populations.

Based on crimes reported, some neighborhoods and areas of concern include Downtown Murfreesboro, between John R. Rice Boulevard and NW Broad Street, and the communities of Battleground Estates, Ridgefield, Haynes Haven, Greenbriar, and Quail Run.

Other public places in Murfreesboro to avoid or take precautions include Stones Creek.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Murfreesboro

So... How Safe Is Murfreesboro Really?

Murfreesboro is relatively safe.

Overall, Murfreesboro’s crime rates are two percent higher than the national average, with violent crimes xx % lower than the national average.

According to AdvisorSmith, Murfreesboro was rated the safest moderate-sized city in Tennessee, with 4.4 violent crimes per 1,000 residents & 31.5 property crimes per 1,000 residents.

A crime occurs every 1.5 hours in Murfreesboro.

While specific areas may be more dangerous, overall, crime in Murfreesboro is down approximately 10% year over year.

Be cautious when traveling, including not carrying cash, staying with the group, and being aware of your surroundings.

As with all cities, some areas are at higher crime risk than others.

The chances of becoming a victim in Murfreesboro is 1 in 13 in the central neighborhoods – dropping to 1 in 53 in the city’s southwest areas.

In the outer suburbs, personal crime is rare.

Panhandlers and pickpockets are typical in downtown Murfreesboro especially around The Square – a popular three-block retail and restaurant area around the courthouse.

Property theft, burglary, vandalism, and assault are the most common offenses.

Property crime in Murfreesboro is 15% above the national average.

All tourists should take standard precautionary measures, avoiding dark alleys and people that suddenly approach, just as they would in any city.

How Does Murfreesboro Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

The United States visa process takes time, so start early. International tourists may be eligible to travel to the United States via visa-free travel. Many countries have a basic non-immigrant reciprocity policy requiring only a passport and purchase declaration. The process is simple for those requiring tourist visas costing 160 USD. Student and work visas require additional information. If there are specific questions about a visa type or the status of a visa application, contact the local United States embassy for more detailed information.

Currency

The currency in Murfreesboro is the same throughout the United States, the United States dollar, abbreviated USD. An easy hack to quickly exchange foreign currency for United States dollars is withdrawing cash from a bank ATM. Airport kiosks and most national or international banks can assist with currency exchange. Nationwide hotel chains usually help to cash travelers' checks and exchange cash. Most business locations accept credit and debit cards if you cannot immediately find a bank. In general, Tennessee is relatively inexpensive. An average day will cost about $75 daily.

Weather

Murfreesboro's climate is subtropical with mild winters and hot, humid summers, although cold temperatures, wind chill, and occasional light snowfall are typical. Temperatures range from -19 °F (-28 °C) to 109 °F (43 °C). Rain is common - averaging 56 inches annually. When packing for Murfreesboro for most of the year, think in layers, with lighter clothing during the summer and a sweater or light jacket for the evenings.

Airports

Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the nearest airport to Murfreesboro, 25 miles away. Other nearby airports include Huntsville (HSV), approximately 86 miles from the city center, and Chattanooga (CHA), 88 miles away. Ten local or regional airports within an hour of Murfreesboro include Smyrna Airport, TN (MQY / KMQY), which is 15 miles away, and Shelbyville Municipal Airport, TN (SYI / KSYI), 21 miles away. Taxis and rideshare companies service all airports.

Travel Insurance

Regardless of where you travel, buying travel insurance is highly recommended. A travel insurance policy covers general sickness, significant medical emergencies, and related expenses. Travel insurance may also cover the loss or theft of luggage and valuables. Don't forget to read the policy carefully before purchasing.

Murfreesboro Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Tennessee - Safety by City