Oak Harbor, WA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Oak Harbor, WA

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Oak Harbor is 59.3% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Oak Harbor, there were 15 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 60 per 100,000 individuals, 83.7% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 220 property crimes, amounting to 885 per 100,000 residents, 54.7% lower than the U.S. average.

Oak Harbor stands out with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the United States. Reporting only 60 violent crimes per 100,000 people, Oak Harbor secures its place among the safest cities in the nation, making it an enticing destination for those in search of a new home.

In the latest reported crime year, Oak Harbor recorded zero homicides. This statistic potentially positions the city as a paragon of security, radiating a profound sense of safety for its residents. A low number of severe violent crimes instills a deep feeling of well-being among its community but also establishes a lofty benchmark for other locales aspiring to foster equally secure environments.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Oak Harbor?

AreaVibes surveyed 26 local residents in Oak Harbor to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 81% of people answered that there was very little crime in Oak Harbor and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 19% 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 Oak Harbor a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Oak Harbor 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, Oak Harbor has an overall crime rate that is 59% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.64 daily occurrences, comprising 0.04 violent crimes and 0.6 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Oak Harbor as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Oak Harbor Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime rates in Oak Harbor has increased by 31.3% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Oak Harbor is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. Crime rates are categorized by violent and property crime. Year-over-year violent crime has increased by 25%, while property crime has increased by 31.7%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Oak Harbor.

Potential Causes for Crime in Oak Harbor

If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Oak Harbor crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Oak Harbor has an unemployment rate of 3.4%, compared to a national average of 4.7%.

The impact of law enforcement and community policing efforts plays a crucial role in shaping crime rates in any city. A robust and cooperative bond between law enforcement and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, enhancing overall safety. In Oak Harbor, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 1.6, differing from the national average of 3.25. Effective law enforcement hinges not solely on officer numbers but also on the manner in which they interact and collaborate with the community. Building trust and cooperation are central tenets of community policing, amplifying its influence on crime prevention.

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 Oak Harbor are $1,250, compared to a national average of $949 per month.

Oak Harbor crime map