Worcester, MA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Worcester, MA

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Worcester crime rate is 2.3% lower than the national average. These incidents are classified into two primary categories: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes include assault, robbery, rape and murder. Whereas property crimes encompass theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In the case of Worcester, there were 1245 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 603 per 100,000 individuals, 63% higher than the national average. Additionally, Worcester recorded 3444 property crimes, amounting to 1667 per 100,000 residents, 14.7% lower than the U.S. average.

In terms of the total Worcester crime rate per 100,000 people, it falls within the midrange when compared to other cities across the United States. Our analysis of total crimes, encompassing both violent and property offenses in Worcester, revealed that the reported crime rates closely align with the nationwide average reported by other areas.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Worcester?

AreaVibes surveyed 91 local residents in Worcester to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 29% of people answered that there was very little crime in Worcester and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 71% of people responded that there was far too much crime and they would be hesitant to walk the streets alone at night. Keep in mind that the opinions of residents may vary depending on which area they live in.

Is Worcester a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Worcester is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Worcester has an overall crime rate that is 2% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 12.85 daily occurrences, comprising 3.41 violent crimes and 9.44 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Worcester as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Worcester Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Worcester. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Worcester has decreased by 1%. Violent crimes have increased by 3.8%, while property crimes have decreased by 2.7%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

Potential Causes for Crime in Worcester

Worcester has a poverty rate of 19.7, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.

The median home price in Worcester is $241,800, compared to the national average of $184,700. High housing costs can lead to financial stress for residents. When individuals struggle to make ends meet due to expensive housing, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities to address their financial difficulties, such as theft or fraud. Communities with stable housing environments tend to foster stronger social bonds and community engagement. This can lead to increased vigilance and cooperation among residents, which can deter criminal behavior.

In Worcester, the average rental rates are $1,115 per month, compared to the national average of $949. Rapid increases in rental costs can lead to neighborhood instability as residents are forced to move frequently in search of more affordable housing. This transience can weaken community bonds and hinder the establishment of social support networks, which can indirectly contribute to crime. While affordable rent and areas with higher income per capita, allow for long term renters and community bonds to the formed, therefore reducing crime rates on the long term.

Worcester crime map