Somerville, NJ Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Somerville, NJ

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Somerville crime rate is 49.1% lower than the national average. These incidents are classified into two primary categories: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes include assault, robbery, rape and murder. Whereas property crimes encompass theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In the case of Somerville, there were 10 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 78 per 100,000 individuals, 78.8% lower than the national average. Additionally, Somerville recorded 141 property crimes, amounting to 1105 per 100,000 residents, 43.5% lower than the U.S. average.

Somerville shines as one of the safest cities in the United States, thanks to its remarkably low rate of only 78 violent incidents per 100,000 residents. This impressive safety record has made Somerville an attractive choice for individuals seeking a secure and hospitable community to call home.

During the most recently reported crime year, Somerville experienced a total of 0 reported murders. This statistic paints it as a beacon of security when it comes to severe violent crimes. Such an achievement not only instills a profound sense of security for its residents but also sets a high standard for other communities striving to create similarly secure environments. It underscores the area as a place where safety is a top priority, enhancing its appeal as a desirable location to live and thrive.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Somerville?

AreaVibes surveyed 7 local residents in Somerville to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 86% of people answered that there was very little crime in Somerville and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 14% 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 Somerville a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Somerville 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, Somerville has an overall crime rate that is 49% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.41 daily occurrences, comprising 0.03 violent crimes and 0.39 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Somerville as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Somerville Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in Somerville crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Somerville has increased by 38.5% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 400% and property crime has increased by 31.8%.

Potential Causes for Crime in Somerville

The level of education within a community can impact crime rates. Higher educational attainment often correlates with lower crime rates, as it provides individuals with better job opportunities and alternatives to criminal behavior. While lower educational achievement rates tend to lead to higher crime rates. In Somerville, 88.1% of people have completed high school, while 83% of people have completed high school nationally.

Rising cost of living expenses, including increased housing costs, grocery, utility and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards crime, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In Somerville, the cost of living is 19.21% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.

In Somerville, the ratio of police officers and civilians stands at 2.62 per 1,000 residents, contrasting with the national average of 3.25. This discrepancy highlights the potential impact of law enforcement and community policing on crime rates. The strength of their collaboration can serve as a deterrent to criminal behavior, fostering a safer environment. Effective law enforcement leans heavily on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and cooperation between police and residents. It's essential to recognize that the effectiveness of these efforts isn't solely tied to the quantity of officers but also hinges on the quality of their engagement with the community.

Somerville crime map