Oxford, MA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Oxford, MA

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 Oxford crime rate is lower than the national average by 57.7%. Specifically, there were 32 violent crimes in Oxford, equivalent to 240 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 35%. Furthermore, Oxford recorded 99 property crimes, amounting to 743 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 62%.

Oxford showcased a dedication to violent crime safety in its latest reported crime year by achieving a murder rate of 0. This accomplishment could indicate that it is a safe place for residents, but also provides a shining example to other urban areas endeavoring to create safer communities.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Oxford?

AreaVibes has conducted polls asking local residents if they feel safe living in Oxford. Based on the results of the surveys (6 responses), 83% of people felt that there was very little crime in Oxford and felt safe walking alone at night. While 17% of people felt that it was not a safe place to live and did not feel safe walking alone at night.

Is Oxford a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Oxford 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, Oxford has an overall crime rate that is 58% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.36 daily occurrences, comprising 0.09 violent crimes and 0.27 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Oxford as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Oxford Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Oxford. 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 Oxford has increased by 20.2%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 113.3%, while property crime has increased by 5.3%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Oxford.

Potential Causes for Crime in Oxford

Oxford has a poverty rate of 2.9, 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.

Limited employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-wage jobs can result in higher rates of unemployment and underemployment. Regions where individuals grapple with joblessness or meager wages may exhibit greater vulnerability to an uptick in crime due to financial instability. While areas that have strong employment rates, often will see a reduction in overall crime. Oxford, for instance, reports an unemployment rate of 2.5%, which differs from the national average of 4.7%.

The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Oxford, there are 1.8 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage with the community.

Oxford crime map