| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Athol/100k people | Massachusetts/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 144 | n/a (estimate) | 1,184 | 1,427 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 1.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 7 | n/a | 57.5 | 27.6 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 36.0 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 48 | n/a | 394.6 | 249.3 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 55 | n/a (estimate) | 452 | 315 | 359 |
| Burglary | 13 | n/a | 106.9 | 130.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 75 | n/a | 616.5 | 876.3 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 1 | n/a | 8.2 | 105.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 89 | n/a (estimate) | 732 | 1,112 | 1,760 |
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 Athol crime rate is lower than the national average by 44.1%. Specifically, there were 55 violent crimes in Athol, equivalent to 452 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 25.9%. Furthermore, Athol recorded 89 property crimes, amounting to 732 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 58.4%.
Athol showcased a dedication to violent crime safety in its latest reported crime year by achieving a murder rate of 0. This accomplishment could indicate that it is a safe place for residents, but also provides a shining example to other urban areas endeavoring to create safer communities.
To determine if Athol is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Athol has a total crime rate that is 44% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.39 daily crimes (0.15 violent daily crimes and 0.24 daily property crimes) in Athol.
Year-over-year crime rates in Athol has decreased by 6.5% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Athol 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 increased by 22.2%, while property crime has decreased by 18.4%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Athol.
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. Athol currently has an unemployment rate of 5.4%, contrasting with the national average of 4.9%. This could be one of many factors that could contribute to a higher or lower crime rate.
The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Athol, there are 1.96 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage with the community.
Athol has an average rental rate of $1,235 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Item | Athol | Massachusetts | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 23 | 11,659 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.0 | 2.2 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Massachusetts /100K | National /100K |
| Massachusetts | 4,551 | 72 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Northfield, MA | 999 | 70 | 279 | 349 |
| Millers Falls, MA | 1,192 | 150 | 530 | 680 |
| Barre, MA | 969 | 319 | 443 | 762 |
| Winchendon, MA | 4,851 | 234 | 572 | 806 |
| Gardner, MA | 21,410 | 329 | 620 | 949 |
| Orange, MA | 3,966 | 318 | 926 | 1,244 |
| North Amherst, MA | 7,534 | 315 | 1,113 | 1,429 |
| Athol, MA | 8,568 | 452 | 732 | 1,184 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Orrville, OH | 8,565 | 107 | 297 | 404 |
| Somers, WI | 8,564 | 163 | 675 | 837 |
| Lake Carmel, NY | 8,572 | 319 | 1,443 | 1,762 |
| Moundsville, WV | 8,573 | 253 | 1,180 | 1,433 |
| Shelby, OH | 8,574 | 270 | 1,135 | 1,405 |
| Athol, MA | 8,568 | 452 | 732 | 1,184 |
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