Elma, WA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Elma, WA

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Elma is 4.4% 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 Elma, there were 6 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 171 per 100,000 individuals, 53.8% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 72 property crimes, amounting to 2052 per 100,000 residents, 5% higher than the U.S. average.

When evaluating the Elma crime rate for every 100,000 residents, it positions itself in the middle range among all cities that reported crime. Our examination of total offenses, spanning both violent and property crimes, indicates that the reported Elma crime rates closely correspond to the national average reported by other regions.

In the latest reported crime year, Elma 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.

Elma exhibits a property crime rate closely aligned with the national average. There were 2052 reported property crimes, which closely matches the national average of 1954 per 100,000 people. Consequently, the area's safety profile mirrors that of an average city, neither notably safer nor more dangerous than the norm. This balance suggests that Elma maintains a consistent approach to property crime prevention in line with the broader national landscape.

Is Elma a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Elma 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, Elma has an overall crime rate that is 4% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.21 daily occurrences, comprising 0.02 violent crimes and 0.2 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Elma as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Elma Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Elma. 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 Elma has increased by 2.6%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 50%, while property crime has increased by 0%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Elma.

Potential Causes for Crime in Elma

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 Elma crime rates. The population density in Elma is 1293.8 people per square mile, while the national average is 90.6 people per square mile.

Rising cost of living expenses, including increased housing costs, grocery, utility and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards crime, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In Elma, the cost of living is 2.07% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.

In Elma, the average rental rates are $823 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.

Elma crime map