Lakewood, CO Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Lakewood, CO

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Lakewood crime rate is 164.1% 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 Lakewood, there were 1278 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 814 per 100,000 individuals, 120% higher than the national average. Additionally, Lakewood recorded 8362 property crimes, amounting to 5324 per 100,000 residents, 172.4% higher than the U.S. average.

With a crime rate of 6137 per 100,000 residents, Lakewood has a crime rate that is 164.07% higher than the national average. This results in one of the highest total crime rates in the entire country. This does not necessarily mean that the entire city is unsafe. As with any area, there are some pockets in Lakewood that are much safer than others. A little research will go a long way in determining which areas could potentially offer a safer living environment.

Lakewood 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 814 per 100,000 people, Lakewood is considered one of the most unsafe cities in America. This statistic translates to a 1 in 123 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Lakewood, underscoring the need for increased safety measures and community engagement to improve the city's security.

With a property crime rate of 5324 crimes per 100,000 people, Lakewood unfortunately has the distinction of being among the bottom 10% of all U.S. cities reporting crime. The likelihood of falling victim to property crime in Lakewood is alarmingly high, estimated at 1 in 19, significantly surpassing the national average. This data emphasizes the city's pressing need for concerted efforts to address and reduce property crime, ensuring a safer environment for its residents.

Vehicle thefts across all of America are on the rise and Lakewood has one of the highest vehicle theft rates in the country. In the most recent crime report, Lakewood reported 2114 vehicle thefts, which equates to 1346 stolen vehicles per 100,000 people. This falls in the bottom 10% of all cities, meaning that 90% of cities have better vehicle theft rates. The chance of having your vehicle stolen in Lakewood is 1 in 75.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Lakewood?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Lakewood residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 75 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 35% of Lakewood residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 65% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Lakewood a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Lakewood a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Lakewood crime rate is 164% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 26.41 crimes per day - 3.5 violent crimes and 22.91 property crimes.

Has Crime in Lakewood Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in Lakewood crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Lakewood has decreased by 0% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 17.5% and property crime has decreased by 2.2%.

Potential Causes for Crime in Lakewood

Escalating cost of living expenses, encompassing exorbitant housing costs, grocery and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards criminal activities, 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 Lakewood, the cost of living is 11.61% 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 Lakewood, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 2.8 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.

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 Lakewood stands at $398,200, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

Lakewood crime map