Wasilla, AK Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Wasilla, AK

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 Wasilla crime rate is higher than the national average by 54.8%. Specifically, there were 53 violent crimes in Wasilla, equivalent to 540 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 46.1%. Furthermore, Wasilla recorded 300 property crimes, amounting to 3058 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 56.5%.

In the latest reported crime year, Wasilla 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 Wasilla?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Wasilla residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 24 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 38% of Wasilla 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, 63% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Wasilla a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Wasilla 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 Wasilla crime rate is 55% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.97 crimes per day - 0.15 violent crimes and 0.82 property crimes.

Has Crime in Wasilla 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 Wasilla 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 Wasilla has increased by 6% year over year. Violent crime has decreased by 15.9% and property crime has increased by 11.1%.

Potential Causes for Crime in Wasilla

The economic prosperity of a city's inhabitants exerts substantial influence on crime stats. Elevated poverty rates and income inequality can precipitate heightened criminal activity, as individuals may turn to illicit means to fulfill their fundamental requirements. While lower poverty rates could lead to lower Wasilla crime rates. In Wasilla, the poverty rate stands at 13.3%, diverging from the national average of 15.1%.

Wasilla has a ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents that differs from the national norm, with 5.49 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to 3.25 nationwide. Crime rates are profoundly influenced by the effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing endeavors. A resilient and cooperative partnership between law enforcement agencies and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, ultimately enhancing safety. The efficacy of law enforcement extends beyond mere numbers and extends into the realm of community policing strategies, emphasizing the cultivation of trust and collaboration between officers and the community. It is not merely a matter of quantity but the quality of engagement with the community that matters most.

High rental costs can limit economic mobility, making it difficult for individuals to save money, invest in education, or access better job opportunities. This can perpetuate a cycle of poverty and increase the risk of involvement in criminal activities. In summary, high rental costs can create economic challenges, overcrowding, and neighborhood dynamics that may increase the likelihood of certain types of crime, particularly property crimes. In Wasilla, the average rental rates are $1,008 per month, compared to the national average of $949.

Wasilla crime map