Pittsfield, MA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Pittsfield, 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 Pittsfield crime rate is higher than the national average by 0.8%. Specifically, there were 326 violent crimes in Pittsfield, equivalent to 749 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 102.7%. Furthermore, Pittsfield recorded 693 property crimes, amounting to 1593 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 18.5%.

When assessing the total crime rate in Pittsfield per 100,000 people, it stands in the median range among all cities with reported crime data. Our analysis of total incidents, encompassing both violent and property crimes within Pittsfield, underscores the close alignment of reported crime rates with the national average as reported by other areas.

Pittsfield has gained notoriety as one of the most dangerous cities in the United States, given its alarming violent crime rate of 749 crimes per 100,000 people. In fact, Pittsfield falls within the lowest 10% among cities reporting violent crimes last year, resulting in a concerning 1 in 134 likelihood of experiencing a violent crime. It's important to note that safety levels may vary across different areas within the city, and this statistic doesn't necessarily reflect the entire city's situation regarding violent crime.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Pittsfield?

AreaVibes surveyed 51 local residents in Pittsfield to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 16% of people answered that there was very little crime in Pittsfield and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 84% 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 Pittsfield a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in Pittsfield, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Pittsfield presents a total crime rate that is 1% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Pittsfield experiences an average of 2.79 daily crimes, comprising 0.89 violent incidents and 1.9 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.

Has Crime in Pittsfield Increased Since Last Year?

In the most recent crime report, year-over-year crime rates in Pittsfield has increased by 9.1%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Pittsfield, aiding residents in assessing whether it is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. These crime rates are categorized into two primary groups: violent and property crimes. Year-over-year, violent crime has increased by 18.1%, while property crime has increased by 5.3%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about whether or not Pittsfield is a safe place to live.

Potential Causes for Crime in Pittsfield

Pittsfield reports an unemployment rate of 4.6%, contrasting with the national average of 4.7%. Constrained employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-paying positions can contribute to elevated rates of unemployment and underemployment. Areas where individuals contend with joblessness or insufficient wages may display heightened susceptibility to an increase in criminal activities attributed to economic insecurity. Conversely, regions characterized by robust employment rates often witness a decrease in overall Pittsfield crime rates.

Law enforcement and community policing efforts can play a pivotal role in shaping crime rates. Establishing a robust and cooperative partnership between the police and the community can act as a deterrent to criminal behavior and enhance overall safety. In Pittsfield, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 2.41 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents compared to 3.25 nationally. Effective law enforcement often hinges on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the community. It's not solely about the quantity of officers but also the quality of their engagement with the community.

The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Pittsfield stands at $176,800, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

Pittsfield crime map