Fairmont, WV Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Fairmont, WV

Crime is typically categorized into two main types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. Based on the most recent report, the Fairmont crime rate is lower than the national average by 23.6%. Specifically, there were 71 violent crimes in Fairmont, equivalent to 392 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 6%. Furthermore, Fairmont recorded 251 property crimes, amounting to 1385 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 29.1%.

When it comes to violent crimes per 100,000 people, Fairmont maintains a rate that is very similar to the national average. With 392 reported violent crimes, it falls in line with the national average of 370. This alignment suggests that Fairmont shares a similar crime profile with other cities, highlighting its comparable level of safety within the broader urban landscape.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Fairmont?

AreaVibes surveyed 10 local residents in Fairmont to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 60% of people answered that there was very little crime in Fairmont and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 40% 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 Fairmont a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Fairmont 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, Fairmont has an overall crime rate that is 24% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.88 daily occurrences, comprising 0.19 violent crimes and 0.69 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Fairmont as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Fairmont Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Fairmont. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Fairmont has decreased by 18.3%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 31.1%, while property crime has decreased by 13.8%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Fairmont.

Potential Causes for Crime in Fairmont

Regions characterized by high population density frequently encompass expansive urban hubs that offer diverse economic prospects. In such areas, income inequality can be exacerbated, creating pockets of poverty alongside affluence. Economic disparities within these regions may correlate with elevated property crimes and, in certain instances, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density numbers generally exhibit reduced Fairmont crime rates. Fairmont registers a population density of 2144.1 people per square mile, in contrast to the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.

Fairmont has a ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents that differs from the national norm, with 2.13 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.

In Fairmont, the average rental rates are $786 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.

Fairmont crime map