Lancaster, OH Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Lancaster, OH

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 Lancaster crime rate is higher than the national average by 4.1%. Specifically, there were 109 violent crimes in Lancaster, equivalent to 266 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 28%. Furthermore, Lancaster recorded 881 property crimes, amounting to 2152 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 10.1%.

When assessing the overall crime rate in Lancaster 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, underscores the close alignment of reported Lancaster crime rates with the national average as reported by other areas.

Lancaster 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.

The property crime rate per 100,000 people in Lancaster is very similar to the national average. Lancaster had a property crime rate of 2152, while the national average was 1954. Based on these numbers, you could expect an average amount of property crime in this area.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Lancaster?

AreaVibes surveyed 24 local residents in Lancaster to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 38% of people answered that there was very little crime in Lancaster and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 63% of people responded that there was far too much crime and they would be hesitant to walk the streets alone at night. Keep in mind that the opinions of residents may vary depending on which area they live in.

Is Lancaster a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Lancaster 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 Lancaster crime rate is 4% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 2.71 crimes per day - 0.3 violent crimes and 2.41 property crimes.

Has Crime in Lancaster 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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster has increased by 32.9% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 9% and property crime has increased by 36.6%.

Potential Causes for Crime in Lancaster

Limited employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-wage jobs can result in higher rates of unemployment and underemployment. Regions where individuals grapple with joblessness or meager wages may exhibit greater vulnerability to an uptick in crime due to financial instability. While areas that have strong employment rates, often will see a reduction in overall crime. Lancaster, for instance, reports an unemployment rate of 2.8%, which differs from the national average of 4.7%.

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 Lancaster, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 2.05, 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 Lancaster stands at $131,700, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

Lancaster crime map