Berwick, PA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Berwick, PA

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Berwick is 36.9% lower 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 Berwick, there were 17 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 164 per 100,000 individuals, 55.6% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 135 property crimes, amounting to 1303 per 100,000 residents, 33.3% lower than the U.S. average.

While murder rates in the United States have shown a consistent decline since 1990, recent years have witnessed an increase. Unfortunately, Berwick ranks among the cities with the highest murder rates in the nation, when compared to all reporting cities in the U.S. In Berwick, there were a total of 2 murders, translating to 19 murders per 100,000 residents. This alarming statistic underscores the need for heightened attention to community safety and crime prevention efforts in the area.

Is Berwick a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in Berwick, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Berwick presents a total crime rate that is 37% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Berwick experiences an average of 0.42 daily crimes, comprising 0.05 violent incidents and 0.37 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.

Potential Causes for Crime in Berwick

High population density areas are often large urban centers with diverse economic opportunities. These areas can exacerbate income inequality, with pockets of poverty existing alongside affluence. Areas with economic disparities may experience higher property crimes and, in some cases, violent crimes. On the other hand, areas with low population density tend to see lower Berwick crime rates. The population density in Berwick is 3254.2 people per square mile, while the national average is 90.6 people per square mile.

The impact of law enforcement and community policing efforts plays a crucial role in shaping crime rates in any city. A robust and cooperative bond between law enforcement and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, enhancing overall safety. In Berwick, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 1.43, differing from the national average of 3.25. Effective law enforcement hinges not solely on officer numbers but also on the manner in which they interact and collaborate with the community. Building trust and cooperation are central tenets of community policing, amplifying its influence on crime prevention.

The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Berwick stands at $103,600, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

Berwick crime map