The analysis focused on the correlation between the total crime index as reported by the Uniform Crime Report and various economic and demographic variables, including the unemployment rate, the proportion of families with incomes below the poverty level, the percentage of the labor force in blue collar jobs, age composition, and educational level. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using 1990 data by county for a layer of two counties covering the most densely populated areas along the coast from Texas to Florida. Results revealed some significant correlation between socioeconomic conditions and murder as well as forcible rape. However, correlations were weak or insignificant for robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, and vehicle theft. Findings suggested that crime rates are faintly correlated with the socioeconomic conditions of the gulf coast. Figures, tables, appended list of counties, and 112 references