West Miami, FL Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in West Miami, FL

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 Miami crime rate is lower than the national average by 45.8%. Specifically, there were 16 violent crimes in West Miami, equivalent to 232 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 37.4%. Furthermore, West Miami recorded 71 property crimes, amounting to 1027 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 47.4%.

In the latest reported crime year, West Miami 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.

Is West Miami a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether West Miami 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, West Miami has an overall crime rate that is 46% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.24 daily occurrences, comprising 0.04 violent crimes and 0.19 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of West Miami as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in West Miami 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 West Miami 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 West Miami has decreased by 20.9% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 33.3% and property crime has decreased by 27.6%.

Potential Causes for Crime in West Miami

Limited employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-wage jobs can result in higher rates of unemployment and underemployment. Regions where individuals grapple with joblessness or meager wages may exhibit greater vulnerability to an uptick in crime due to financial instability. While areas that have strong employment rates, often will see a reduction in overall crime. West Miami, for instance, reports an unemployment rate of 1.3%, which differs from the national average of 4.7%.

In West Miami, the cost of living is 15.75% higher than the national average. A high cost of living can induce economic stress for locals, especially those with limited financial resources. When people grapple with soaring housing expenses, utility bills, healthcare costs, and other essential necessities, they may be driven towards criminal activities, including theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities boasting a lower cost of living may mitigate economic pressures and potentially result in reduced 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 West Miami, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 3.56 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.

West Miami crime map