Westlake, OH Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Westlake, OH

Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Westlake is 80.2% lower than the national average. Specifically, there were 14 violent crimes reported in Westlake, equivalent to 42 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 88.8%. Additionally, Westlake recorded 141 property crimes, amounting to 418 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average by 78.6%.

Westlake enjoys a remarkably low crime rate, standing at just 459, a significant contrast to the national average of 2324. This distinction firmly establishes Westlake as one of the safest places to reside in the entire United States. This crime rate is meticulously calculated, taking into account the total occurrences of both violent and property crimes per 100,000 individuals, providing a comprehensive perspective on the area's safety and livability.

With only 42 incidents per 100,000 people, Westlake boasts an exceptionally low rate of violent crimes, positioning it as one of the safest cities in the United States. Given these low violent crime rates, Westlake has become an appealing destination for individuals in search of a secure and welcoming place to establish their new home.

During the most recently reported crime year, Westlake experienced a total of 0 reported murders. This statistic paints it as a beacon of security when it comes to severe violent crimes. Such an achievement not only instills a profound sense of security for its residents but also sets a high standard for other communities striving to create similarly secure environments. It underscores the area as a place where safety is a top priority, enhancing its appeal as a desirable location to live and thrive.

Since 1990, property crime rates per 100,000 people in the United States have steadily decreased. Recently, the average did increase slightly. Having said that, Westlake has a property crime rate that is well below the national average with only 418 reported property crimes compared to the national average of 1954. Based on this report, Westlake remains a very safe place to live with regards to property crime.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Westlake?

What do the local residents think about crime in Westlake? Well, based on a recent survey of 7 people (conducted by AreaVibes), 71% of Westlake residents said that there was virtually no crime and that they felt safe walking at night. Another 29% of respondents said that there was too much crime in the area and they did not feel safe walking alone at night.

Is Westlake a Safe Place to Live?

To determine if Westlake is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Westlake has a total crime rate that is 80% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.42 daily crimes (0.04 violent daily crimes and 0.39 daily property crimes) in Westlake.

Potential Causes for Crime in Westlake

Escalating cost of living expenses, encompassing exorbitant housing costs, grocery and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards criminal activities, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In Westlake, the cost of living is 5.47% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.

Westlake has a ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents that differs from the national norm, with 0 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to 3.25 nationwide. Crime rates are profoundly influenced by the effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing endeavors. A resilient and cooperative partnership between law enforcement agencies and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, ultimately enhancing safety. The efficacy of law enforcement extends beyond mere numbers and extends into the realm of community policing strategies, emphasizing the cultivation of trust and collaboration between officers and the community. It is not merely a matter of quantity but the quality of engagement with the community that matters most.

Elevated rental costs can generate economic strain for both individuals and families, particularly those with restricted financial means. When a substantial proportion of one's income is allocated to housing costs, it often leaves limited resources for fulfilling other crucial necessities such as groceries, healthcare and education. This financial pressure can fuel desperation, potentially prompting individuals to resort to criminal actions, including theft or fraud, as a means of coping with their financial hardships. In Westlake, the average monthly rent stands at $1,223, while the national average is $949 per month.

Westlake crime map