| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Oelwein/100k people | Iowa/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 44 | n/a (estimate) | 765 | 1,540 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 2.1 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 17.4 | 35.2 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 18.7 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 11 | n/a | 191.2 | 187.2 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 12 | n/a (estimate) | 209 | 243 | 359 |
| Burglary | 6 | n/a | 104.3 | 199.1 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 24 | n/a | 417.2 | 962.6 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 2 | n/a | 34.8 | 135.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 32 | n/a (estimate) | 556 | 1,297 | 1,760 |
Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Oelwein is 63.9% 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 Oelwein, there were 12 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 209 per 100,000 individuals, 41.9% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 32 property crimes, amounting to 556 per 100,000 residents, 68.4% lower than the U.S. average.
Oelwein enjoys a remarkably low crime rate, standing at just 765, a significant contrast to the national average of 2119. This distinction firmly establishes Oelwein as one of the safest places to reside in the entire United States. This crime rate is meticulously calculated, taking into account the total occurrences of both violent and property crimes per 100,000 individuals, providing a comprehensive perspective on the area's safety and livability.
Oelwein 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.
Property crime rates per 100,000 people have declined steadily since 1990, but did see a slight increase in recent years. Based on the most recent crime data, Oelwein has a property crime rate of 556 crimes per 100,000 people, which is far below the national average of 1760. This is a good indicator that Oelwein is a safe place to live.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Oelwein residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 5 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 40% of Oelwein 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, 60% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
To determine if Oelwein 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. Oelwein has a total crime rate that is 64% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.12 daily crimes (0.03 violent daily crimes and 0.09 daily property crimes) in Oelwein.
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 Oelwein 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 Oelwein has decreased by 50% year over year. Violent crime has decreased by 29.4% and property crime has decreased by 54.9%.
Oelwein has a poverty rate of 15, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.
The median home price in Oelwein is $154,407, compared to the national average of $326,622. High housing costs can lead to financial stress for residents. When individuals struggle to make ends meet due to expensive housing, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities to address their financial difficulties, such as theft or fraud. Communities with stable housing environments tend to foster stronger social bonds and community engagement. This can lead to increased vigilance and cooperation among residents, which can deter criminal behavior.
In Oelwein, the average rental rates are $973 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. 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.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Item | Oelwein | Iowa | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 15 | 3,827 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.3 | 1.8 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Iowa /100K | National /100K |
| Iowa | 6,040 | 205 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Sumner, IA | 2,275 | 98 | 49 | 148 |
| Jesup, IA | 2,784 | 88 | 470 | 558 |
| Winthrop, IA | 1,048 | 93 | 498 | 591 |
| Fayette, IA | 1,171 | 97 | 517 | 614 |
| Independence, IA | 6,286 | 161 | 659 | 820 |
| Fairbank, IA | 1,460 | 88 | 881 | 969 |
| Dunkerton, IA | 1,018 | 214 | 1,142 | 1,356 |
| Oelwein, IA | 6,065 | 209 | 556 | 765 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| South Highpoint, FL | 6,065 | 295 | 1,567 | 1,862 |
| Sunbury, OH | 6,065 | 123 | 650 | 774 |
| Fair Haven, NJ | 6,065 | 16 | 181 | 198 |
| Asbury, IA | 6,064 | 100 | 100 | 199 |
| Woodcliff Lake, NJ | 6,064 | 0 | 735 | 735 |
| Oelwein, IA | 6,065 | 209 | 556 | 765 |
Here are the best places to live in Iowa
Check out the 10 most dangerous cities in Iowa
Most Dangerous States In The US
See the best places to live in Oelwein