Long Read

Linyi's Crime Stats: Is It Getting Safer? (As Told by a Broke Student Who Still Lives Here)

@Liam Foster2/11/2026blog
Linyi's Crime Stats: Is It Getting Safer? (As Told by a Broke Student Who Still Lives Here)

Okay, so you're probably scrolling through this because you're either considering moving to Linyi or just bored. Either way, let's talk crime stats. I'm a budget student here, so my knowledge comes from dodging sketchy alleyways at 2 AM after too many cheap beers and overhearing my landlord mutter about 'those kids' stealing his bike. Yeah, real reliable sources. But hey, I've got data too. The local police department's annual report shows violent crime has dropped like my GPA last semester. Like, seriously down. But petty theft? Still happening. Like, someone once tried to snatch my phone while I was trying to find the cheapest ramen place. Close call. But is it getting safer? Kinda, sorta. The city's cleaning up the downtown areas, but if you wander into the old industrial zones after dark, you might still hear some... interesting noises. Like a cat fight, but louder. Or maybe that's just my imagination. Either way, the numbers say it's trending down, but don't leave your laptop unattended in a cafe. That's just common sense. Oh, and rent? Let's not even get started. My tiny room in the student ghetto costs more than my tuition fees. But hey, at least the view's... okay. Sometimes. If you squint. And the weather? It's muggy as a gym sock right now. Like, seriously, I just took a shower and I'm already sweating. But hey, it's only a short drive to Qingdao for some actual beach vibes, or Yantai if you want mountains and seafood that doesn't taste like it came from a can. Yeah, Linyi's got its issues, but it's not the crime capital of Shandong. Yet. Reviews? Well, one local told me 'Linyi's getting safer, but keep your bike locked tighter than my wallet.' Another said 'It's fine, just don't walk alone at night unless you're carrying a baseball bat.' So, there's that. Data-wise, the crime rate per 100k residents has dropped from 120 in 2020 to 95 in 2023. That's a decent chunk. But the police are still understaffed, and the nightlife... let's just say it's lively. Like, 'why is that guy dancing on the table with a chicken wing?' lively. But hey, it's not all bad. The food's cheap, the people are... interesting, and the cost of living is way lower than Shanghai. So, is it getting safer? Yeah, probably. But don't expect miracles. And if you're a tourist, stick to the tourist areas. The rest is... authentic. Like, really authentic. Here's a map so you don't get lost:

And some pretty pictures:

maple tree
tress near calm body of water

Check out the local scene on TripAdvisor: Linyi Travel Guide for some tourist spots. Or if you're into the gritty side, Linyi Subreddit has some... colorful opinions. And for food? Yelp Linyi has the lowdown on where to get the best (and cheapest) eats. So, there you go. Crime stats, student life, and a map. You're welcome.


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About the author: Liam Foster

Here to provoke thought, not just to fill space.

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