Hervey Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and the gateway to Fraser Island is mosaic of suburbs. Each has its own unique blend of charm and challenges and the region has become a focal point for those looking to relocate or invest in QLD.

So, if you’re considering a move over, it might be helpful to dig deeper and truly understand the nuances of each suburb.

Some might say Torquay and Urangan are the best suburbs in Hervey Bay, but which are the worst? To answer this, we’ll be looking at the crime rates on aucrimerates.com and other factors impacting liveability of these Hervey Bay suburbs.

Having said that, we’d also like to highlight that the term ‘worst’ is subjective. Our intention in exploring the suburbs of Hervey Bay is purely analytical, and we encourage our readers to approach the data themselves, recognising that every community is multifaceted and ever-evolving.

Understanding Crime Rates in Hervey Bay’s Suburbs

Hervey Bay, a part of the Fraser Coast region, is diverse in terms of amenities, experiences, and challenges. Crime levels in Hervey Bay range from low to moderate, with the primary area of concern being drug-related activities, including dealing and usage.

According to aucrimerate.com, the most common crime is theft, and one of the safest suburbs to live in is Craignish.

Let’s explore some of the suburbs with higher crime rates.

Pialba:

• Crime index : 2 (100 is the safest)
• Unemployment rate: 7.4%
• Median house price: $430,000

Pialba, located at the heart of Hervey Bay, boasts main streets bustling with activity. Although it enjoys a diverse demographic and ample amenities, economic challenges weigh it down.

This central hub’s elevated crime rate may find its root in the unemployment figures. But there lies a resilient community spirit that can’t be overlooked. The stability in crime incidents, as evidenced by Queensland Police Service (QPS) data, underscores this aspect.

According to Queensland Police Service (QPS), Pialba crime rate for the year ending June 2022 was 28682 incidents per 100,000 population. This represents a zero change from the previous year.

Urraween:

• Crime index: 29 (100 is the safest)
• Unemployment rate: 8.1%
• Median house price: $400,000

According to Queensland Police Service (QPS), Urraween crime rate for the year ending June 2022 was 8661 incidents per 100,000 population. This represents a 13% increase from the previous year.”

However, Urraween is still a dynamic suburb, Urraween. Modern developments are being built showing investment in the area as well as new amenities.

Its parks and green spaces are indicative of the potential for a brighter future. Interestingly, the 13% surge in crime rates, as cited by QPS, presents a mixed image of its current state.

If you’re looking for cheap houses for sale in Hervey Bay, add Urraween to your interested areas.

Urangan:

• Crime index: 25 (100 is safest)
• Unemployment rate: 6.9%
• Median house price: $450,000

Urangan’s allure is its iconic pier and rich marine heritage. As locals and tourists enjoy its coastal offerings, the suburb grapples with internal challenges.

According to Queensland Police Service (QPS), Urangan crime rate for the year ending June 2022 was 8050 incidents per 100,000 population. This represents a 10% decrease from the previous year. The drop in crime rate, while positive, suggests that efforts are underway to address existing issues, potentially making Urangan a suburb to observe in future years.

This aspect of Urangan, coupled with an unemployment rate of 6.9%, points to potential economic and social issues within the community.

Scarness:

• Crime index: 17 (100 is safest)
• Unemployment rate: 7.2%
• Median house price: $420,000

Scarness, a suburb of Hervey Bay, despite its coastal appeal and urban amenities, faces significant challenges that may impact its suitability as a residential area. Its high crime rate, highlights ongoing safety concerns.

“According to Queensland Police Service (QPS), Scarness crime rate for the year ending June 2022 was 17621 incidents per 100,000 population. This represents a 8% decrease from the previous year.”

Although there has been an 8% decrease in crime rates from the previous year, the current level still indicates a considerable risk for residents.

Factors Beyond Crime Rates

When scouting for a place to call home in the Hervey Bay region or any part of Australia, one should not solely rely on crime statistics. Many consider Hervey Bay as one of the best places to live in Queensland, but understanding the overall desirability factors is crucial.

Proximity to Amenities:

The essence of community living is largely defined by its accessible amenities. Schools, for instance, are of paramount importance for families with young children. Having shopping areas close by provides convenience, especially in areas known as the cheapest place to live in Queensland.

A quality education in a nearby institution can save both time and commuting costs. Parks not only serve as a recreational space but also as communal grounds for fostering neighbourhood ties.

Having shopping areas close by provides convenience, reducing the need for long drives just to pick up daily essentials.

Safety Features:

Beyond raw crime numbers, one should look at the preventive and responsive safety measures in place. Good street lighting can deter potential unlawful activities, while surveillance systems like CCTV cameras can add an extra layer of security.

Regular police patrols elevate the sense of security, assuring residents that authorities are keeping a close watch.

Cost of Living:

This includes the costs of groceries, utilities like water and electricity, public transport, and even leisure activities. Some suburbs might offer lower house prices but could have higher utility rates or grocery costs.

For those approaching their golden years, considering the affordable places to retire in Australia becomes even more essential.

Moreover, the local culture, environment, and the general “feel” of the neighbourhood play a crucial role. Engaging with current residents, participating in community forums, and multiple visits at different times can provide deeper insights than numbers alone.

It’s this holistic assessment that can guide one towards making the best decision for their lifestyle and family needs.

Staying Updated on Crime Rates

For those looking to stay abreast of the most recent crime rates and statistics, there are dedicated resources available online. The website aucrimerate.com offers up-to-date crime data tailored to Australian suburbs.

Additionally, the Numbeo Crime Index provides user-reported data, which can offer insights into the lived experiences of residents across various locales. By leveraging these platforms, one can gain a comprehensive view of the safety dynamics within specific areas.

However, we do recommend getting in touch with a real estate agent if you are considering a move to Hervey Bay, as their expertise in the market can help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions

The intent isn’t to deter potential homeowners or tarnish the reputation of Hervey Bay’s suburbs but to provide objective data for informed decisions. Every suburb, even those with higher crime rates, has its unique charm, community spirit, and hidden gems.

Before making a decision, it’s crucial to visit, interact with locals, and get a genuine feel of the neighbourhood. After all, numbers tell only a part of the story.

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Worst Suburbs in Hervey Bay – FAQ

What are the worst suburbs in Hervey Bay?

The worst suburbs in Hervey Bay are Scarness, Pialba and Urraween. However, the term ‘worst’ is subjective and these suburbs are simply notable for their higher crime rates compared to other Hervey Bay suburbs according to aucrimerate.com.

Are these suburbs known for high crime rates?

Yes, these suburbs are known for high crime rates. The crime rates in these suburbs are higher than the average crime rate in Hervey Bay.

How do these suburbs rank in terms of safety?

These suburbs are considered to be less safe compared to other areas in Hervey Bay. The crime rates in these suburbs are higher than the crime rates in safer suburbs, such as Urraween and Pialba.

Is Hervey Bay generally a safe place to live?

Hervey Bay is generally safe, but like any other city, it has areas with higher crime rates. The crime rates in Hervey Bay are lower than the crime rates in some other cities in Australia, such as Brisbane and Sydney.

Are there any safe suburbs in Hervey Bay?

Yes, there are safe suburbs in Hervey Bay. Some of the safest suburbs in Hervey Bay include Toogoom, Pialba, and the Fraser Coast region. These suburbs have lower crime rates than the average crime rate in Hervey Bay.

What are the crime statistics in Hervey Bay?

The crime statistics in Hervey Bay show a crime rate of 47 over 100, according to aucrimerate, where100 is the safest. This is considered moderately safe. This is compared to 77 in greater Sydney and 57 in greater Melbourne. The crime rates in these suburbs are higher for property crimes, such as break-ins and theft, and violent crimes, such as assault and robbery.

Is there a suburb in Hervey Bay with a lower crime rate?

Yes, there are suburbs in Hervey Bay with lower crime rates. Some of the suburbs with lower crime rates include Toogoom, Pialba, and the Fraser Coast region. These suburbs have lower crime rates for property crimes, violent crimes, and other types of crime.