West Des Moines, IA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in West Des Moines, IA

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 West Des Moines crime rate is lower than the national average by 15.4%. Specifically, there were 176 violent crimes in West Des Moines, equivalent to 249 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 32.7%. Furthermore, West Des Moines recorded 1215 property crimes, amounting to 1719 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 12.1%.

West Des Moines maintains a property crime rate that closely resembles the national norm. In West Des Moines, 1719 property crimes were reported, aligning with the national average of 1954 per 100,000 individuals. Consequently, the area's safety profile stands on par with the average city, neither significantly safer nor more dangerous. This consistency underscores a balanced commitment to community safety and security, providing residents with a stable and reassuring living environment.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in West Des Moines?

What is the prevailing sentiment among West Des Moines residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 16 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 81% of West Des Moines 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, 19% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is West Des Moines a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in West Des Moines, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. West Des Moines presents a total crime rate that is 15% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, West Des Moines experiences an average of 3.81 daily crimes, comprising 0.48 violent incidents and 3.33 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 West Des Moines Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in West Des Moines. 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 West Des Moines has increased by 4.8%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 72.6%, while property crime has increased by 0.8%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in West Des Moines.

Potential Causes for Crime in West Des Moines

In areas where employment options are limited or where a significant proportion of jobs offer meager wages, the likelihood of heightened unemployment and homelessness increases. Regions facing challenges related to unemployment or inadequate income may become more vulnerable to a surge in crime stemming from economic instability. While low unemployment rates tend to lead to reduced crime in most areas. West Des Moines currently has an unemployment rate of 1.8%, contrasting with the national average of 4.7%. This could be one of many factors that could contribute to a higher or lower crime rate.

In West Des Moines, the ratio of police officers and civilians stands at 1.32 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.

High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in West Des Moines are $1,058, compared to a national average of $949 per month.

West Des Moines crime map