Brookline, MA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Brookline, MA

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 Brookline is 56.9% lower than the national average. Specifically, there were 66 violent crimes reported in Brookline, equivalent to 105 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 71.6%. Additionally, Brookline recorded 563 property crimes, amounting to 896 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average by 54.2%.

Brookline distinguishes itself with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the U.S., reporting a mere 105 violent crimes per 100,000 people. This achievement firmly establishes Brookline among the safest cities in the nation, rendering it an alluring choice for those seeking a new place to call home.

During the most recently reported crime year, Brookline 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.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Brookline?

AreaVibes has conducted polls asking local residents if they feel safe living in Brookline. Based on the results of the surveys (20 responses), 85% of people felt that there was very little crime in Brookline and felt safe walking alone at night. While 15% of people felt that it was not a safe place to live and did not feel safe walking alone at night.

Is Brookline a Safe Place to Live?

To determine if Brookline 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. Brookline has a total crime rate that is 57% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 1.72 daily crimes (0.18 violent daily crimes and 1.54 daily property crimes) in Brookline.

Has Crime in Brookline Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Brookline. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Brookline has increased by 4.3%. Violent crimes have increased by 69.2%, while property crimes have increased by 0.2%. 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 Brookline

Brookline has a poverty rate of 10.8, 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.

Brookline has a ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents that differs from the national norm, with 3.07 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.

High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Brookline are $2,305, compared to a national average of $949 per month.

Brookline crime map