Kotzebue, AK Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Kotzebue, AK

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Kotzebue crime rate is 7.5% higher 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 Kotzebue, there were 46 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 1513 per 100,000 individuals, 309.1% higher than the national average. Additionally, Kotzebue recorded 30 property crimes, amounting to 987 per 100,000 residents, 49.5% lower than the U.S. average.

When assessing the total crime rate in Kotzebue per 100,000 people, it stands in the median range among all cities with reported crime data. Our analysis of total incidents, encompassing both violent and property crimes within Kotzebue, underscores the close alignment of reported crime rates with the national average as reported by other areas.

Kotzebue ranks among the bottom 10% of all U.S. cities reporting violent crime, earning its reputation as one of the nation's most dangerous areas. With a violent crime rate of 1513 per 100,000 people, Kotzebue is considered one of the most unsafe cities in America. This statistic translates to a 1 in 67 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Kotzebue, underscoring the need for increased safety measures and community engagement to improve the city's security.

Kotzebue 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.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Kotzebue?

AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Kotzebue residents. Out of the respondents (40 in total), 18% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Kotzebue were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 83% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.

Is Kotzebue a Safe Place to Live?

To determine if Kotzebue 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. Kotzebue has a total crime rate that is 8% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.21 daily crimes (0.13 violent daily crimes and 0.08 daily property crimes) in Kotzebue.

Has Crime in Kotzebue Increased Since Last Year?

In the most recent crime report, year-over-year crime rates in Kotzebue has increased by 24.6%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Kotzebue, aiding residents in assessing whether it is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. These crime rates are categorized into two primary groups: violent and property crimes. Year-over-year, violent crime has increased by 35.3%, while property crime has increased by 11.1%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about whether or not Kotzebue is a safe place to live.

Potential Causes for Crime in Kotzebue

Kotzebue has a poverty rate that stands at 15.9, in contrast to the national average of 15.1. Historically, a direct correlation has been observed between poverty rates and crime stats. Higher poverty rates have led to higher crime rates, while lower poverty rates have led to a reduction in Kotzebue crime rates. Income disparities and heightened poverty levels can serve as catalysts for elevated or reduced criminal activity, as individuals may or may not turn to illicit means to fulfill their basic needs. This could be one of many factors that may influence crime.

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 Kotzebue, the cost of living is 28.43% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.

Law enforcement and community policing efforts can play a pivotal role in shaping crime rates. Establishing a robust and cooperative partnership between the police and the community can act as a deterrent to criminal behavior and enhance overall safety. In Kotzebue, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 5.4 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents compared to 3.25 nationally. Effective law enforcement often hinges on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the community. It's not solely about the quantity of officers but also the quality of their engagement with the community.

Kotzebue crime map