San Mateo, CA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in San Mateo, CA

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 San Mateo crime rate is higher than the national average by 14.2%. Specifically, there were 302 violent crimes in San Mateo, equivalent to 304 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 17.7%. Furthermore, San Mateo recorded 2330 property crimes, amounting to 2349 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 20.2%.

In terms of the total San Mateo crime rate per 100,000 people, it falls within the midrange when compared to other cities across the United States. Our analysis of total crimes, encompassing both violent and property offenses in San Mateo, revealed that the reported crime rates closely align with the nationwide average reported by other areas.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in San Mateo?

What is the prevailing sentiment among San Mateo residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 28 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 79% of San Mateo residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 21% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is San Mateo a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is San Mateo a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the San Mateo crime rate is 14% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 7.21 crimes per day - 0.83 violent crimes and 6.38 property crimes.

Has Crime in San Mateo Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in San Mateo. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in San Mateo has increased by 2%. Violent crimes have increased by 10.2%, while property crimes have increased by 1%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

San Mateo Neighborhood Crime Rates

The San Mateo area comprises a diverse array of over 13 distinct neighborhoods, each exhibiting a unique crime rate influenced by location and various socioeconomic factors. Generally, neighborhoods situated in proximity to the city center, characterized by higher population density, often report elevated crime rates. Conversely, the outlying neighborhoods, marked by lower population density and reduced unemployment and poverty rates, tend to experience lower crime incidence. Some neighborhoods with lower crime rates include: San Mateo Park, East San Mateo and Baywood Park which foster a strong sense of safety. Conversely, neighborhoods such as Downtown, Haywood Park and Baywood-Aragon exhibit crime rates above the average, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive research when evaluating different San Mateo neighborhoods, given their considerable variation in crime rates.

Potential Causes for Crime in San Mateo

San Mateo has a population density of 8539.5 people per square mile, while with the national average is 90.6 people per square mile. Cities characterized by high population density are frequently larger urban centers offering diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality may be accentuated, resulting in the coexistence of poverty and affluence. Such economic disparities can contribute to elevated property crimes and on occasion, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density generally record lower San Mateo crime rates.

In San Mateo, the cost of living is 104.49% higher than the national average. A substantial cost of living can burden residents, particularly those with constrained financial means. When individuals contend with steep housing expenses, grocery bills, utility costs, healthcare and essential needs that strain their budgets, they may turn to criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities characterized by a more affordable cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, which could potentially lead to decreased crime rates.

San Mateo has an average rental rate of $2,658 per month, compared to the national average of $949. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.

San Mateo crime map