Salem, OH Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Salem, OH

Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Salem is 22.5% lower than the national average. Specifically, there were 16 violent crimes reported in Salem, equivalent to 136 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 63.3%. Additionally, Salem recorded 196 property crimes, amounting to 1664 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average by 14.8%.

In the latest reported crime year, Salem 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.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Salem?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Salem residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 6 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 50% of Salem 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, 50% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Salem a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Salem 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, Salem has an overall crime rate that is 23% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.58 daily occurrences, comprising 0.04 violent crimes and 0.54 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Salem as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Salem Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Salem. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Salem has decreased by 9%. Violent crimes have decreased by 5.9%, while property crimes have decreased by 9.3%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

Potential Causes for Crime in Salem

The level of education within a community can impact crime rates. Higher educational attainment often correlates with lower crime rates, as it provides individuals with better job opportunities and alternatives to criminal behavior. While lower educational achievement rates tend to lead to higher crime rates. In Salem, 78.4% of people have completed high school, while 83% of people have completed high school nationally.

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 Salem stands at $92,000, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

High rental costs can limit economic mobility, making it difficult for individuals to save money, invest in education, or access better job opportunities. This can perpetuate a cycle of poverty and increase the risk of involvement in criminal activities. In summary, high rental costs can create economic challenges, overcrowding, and neighborhood dynamics that may increase the likelihood of certain types of crime, particularly property crimes. In Salem, the average rental rates are $695 per month, compared to the national average of $949.

Salem crime map