Hampden, ME Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Hampden, ME

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 Hampden crime rate is lower than the national average by 78.1%. Specifically, there were 1 violent crimes in Hampden, equivalent to 13 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 96.6%. Furthermore, Hampden recorded 39 property crimes, amounting to 496 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 74.6%.

With a crime rate of 509, significantly below the national average of 2324, Hampden stands out as one of the safest places to reside in the United States. This distinction is primarily attributed to the calculation of total crimes, which encompasses both violent and property crimes per 100,000 residents.

Hampden distinguishes itself with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the U.S., reporting a mere 13 violent crimes per 100,000 people. This achievement firmly establishes Hampden among the safest cities in the nation, rendering it an alluring choice for those seeking a new place to call home.

In the most recently reported crime year, Hampden registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.

In 1991, property crime rates in the United States soared to over 5,140 crimes per 100,000 people. In the years since, the U.S. property crime rate has continued to decline with the most recent year reporting only 1954 property crimes. In Hampden, the property crime rate was even less than the national average with a rate of 496, cementing it as one of the safest places to live with regards to property crime.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Hampden?

AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Hampden residents. Out of the respondents (8 in total), 88% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Hampden were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 13% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.

Is Hampden a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Hampden 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, Hampden has an overall crime rate that is 78% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.11 daily occurrences, comprising 0 violent crimes and 0.11 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Hampden as a potential place to establish residency.

Potential Causes for Crime in Hampden

In Hampden, the cost of living is 6.21% higher than the national average. A high cost of living can induce economic stress for locals, especially those with limited financial resources. When people grapple with soaring housing expenses, utility bills, healthcare costs, and other essential necessities, they may be driven towards criminal activities, including theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities boasting a lower cost of living may mitigate economic pressures and potentially result in reduced crime rates.

Hampden has a ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents that differs from the national norm, with 1.65 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 Hampden, the average monthly rent stands at $870, while the national average is $949 per month.

Hampden crime map