Wichita, KS Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Wichita, KS

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Wichita is 91.7% higher than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Wichita, there were 3670 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 931 per 100,000 individuals, 151.7% higher than the national average. Additionally, there were 13893 property crimes, amounting to 3524 per 100,000 residents, 80.3% higher than the U.S. average.

With a total of 4454 crimes per 100,000 people, the Wichita crime rates stand at 91.65 higher than the national average. Consequently, the area grapples with one of the nation's highest total crime rates. Addressing this challenge is crucial for enhancing the safety and livability in Wichita, making it a priority to reduce crime through community engagement, effective law enforcement, and collaborative efforts to secure a better future for residents and prospective residents.

Wichita has gained notoriety as one of the most dangerous cities in the United States, given its alarming violent crime rate of 931 crimes per 100,000 people. In fact, Wichita falls within the lowest 10% among cities reporting violent crimes last year, resulting in a concerning 1 in 108 likelihood of experiencing a violent crime. It's important to note that safety levels may vary across different areas within the city, and this statistic doesn't necessarily reflect the entire city's situation regarding violent crime.

Every year, one in 29 people fall victim to a property crime in Wichita - which is high compared to the national average. With a property crime rate of 3524 per 100,000 people, Wichita has one of the highest property crime rates in the country. In fact, the city ranks among the worst 10% of all cities that reported crime last year.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Wichita?

AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Wichita residents. Out of the respondents (249 in total), 32% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Wichita were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 68% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.

Is Wichita a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Wichita 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, Wichita has an overall crime rate that is 92% higher than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 48.12 daily occurrences, comprising 10.05 violent crimes and 38.06 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Wichita as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Wichita Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime rates in Wichita has decreased by 30.3% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Wichita is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. Crime rates are categorized by violent and property crime. Year-over-year violent crime has decreased by 17.6%, while property crime has decreased by 33.1%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Wichita.

Wichita Neighborhood Crime Rates

Typically, densely populated areas in close proximity to the city center tend to experience higher crime rates compared to neighborhoods that are situated on the city's periphery. Wichita, an expansive urban metropolis, has more than 72 distinct neighborhoods, each bearing its unique crime rate characteristics. The prevalence of criminal activity varies significantly among these neighborhoods. Noteworthy among safest neighborhoods in Wichita are areas such as Delano Township, Westlink and Rockhurst, which provide residents with enhanced security and peace of mind. Conversely, neighborhoods like Fairmount, McCormick and Murdock are marked by a higher incidence of reported crimes, warranting prudent consideration for those seeking to avoid areas with potentially elevated safety concerns.

Potential Causes for Crime in Wichita

Wichita has a population density of 2411 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 90.6 people per square mile. High population density cities are often large urban hubs teeming with diverse economic opportunities. Within these environments, income disparities can become pronounced, leading to higher poverty levels. This economic divide may contribute to an uptick in property crimes and, occasionally, violent crimes. In contrast, areas characterized by low population density typically exhibit lower Wichita crime rates.

In Wichita, 83.1% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, whereas the national average stands at 83%. The educational makeup of any city can exert a significant influence on crime rates. Typically, higher levels of educational attainment are associated with reduced crime rates, as they furnish individuals with improved employment prospects and viable alternatives to engaging in criminal activities. Conversely, communities characterized by lower educational achievement often grapple with higher crime rates, as limited opportunities may drive individuals towards criminal behavior.

In Wichita, the average rental rates are $821 per month, compared to the national average of $949. Rapid increases in rental costs can lead to neighborhood instability as residents are forced to move frequently in search of more affordable housing. This transience can weaken community bonds and hinder the establishment of social support networks, which can indirectly contribute to crime. While affordable rent and areas with higher income per capita, allow for long term renters and community bonds to the formed, therefore reducing crime rates on the long term.

Wichita crime map