Westbrook, ME Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Westbrook, ME

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Westbrook crime rate is 47.1% 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 Westbrook, there were 37 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 178 per 100,000 individuals, 51.8% lower than the national average. Additionally, Westbrook recorded 218 property crimes, amounting to 1051 per 100,000 residents, 46.2% lower than the U.S. average.

In the latest reported crime year, Westbrook 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 Westbrook a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Westbrook 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 Westbrook crime rate is 47% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.7 crimes per day - 0.1 violent crimes and 0.6 property crimes.

Has Crime in Westbrook Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Westbrook. 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 Westbrook has increased by 7.6%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 27.6%, while property crime has increased by 4.8%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Westbrook.

Potential Causes for Crime in Westbrook

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 Westbrook crime rates. In Westbrook, the poverty rate stands at 12.1%, diverging from the national average of 15.1%.

In Westbrook, the current unemployment rate stands at 2.6%, diverging from the national average of 4.7%. The availability of job opportunities is a pivotal factor influencing unemployment and underemployment rates. Communities where individuals contend with limited employment prospects or a preponderance of low-wage positions may witness elevated rates of joblessness and income inadequacy, which can contribute to heightened crime levels driven by financial insecurity. Conversely, areas characterized by robust employment rates often experience a reduction in overall Westbrook crime rates.

The educational level achieved in any given city can influence crime rates significantly. Greater educational achievement is frequently associated with decreased crime rates, as it offers individuals improved job prospects and alternatives to engaging in crime related activities. Conversely, lower educational attainment rates tend to coincide with elevated crime rates. In Westbrook, 85.8% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, in contrast to the national average where 83% have achieved high school graduation.

Westbrook crime map