Scranton, PA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Scranton, PA

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Scranton crime rate is 9.7% lower 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 Scranton, there were 310 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 409 per 100,000 individuals, 10.6% higher than the national average. Additionally, Scranton recorded 1281 property crimes, amounting to 1690 per 100,000 residents, 13.5% lower than the U.S. average.

When assessing the overall crime rate in Scranton 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 Scranton crime rates with the national average as reported by other areas.

When it comes to violent crimes per 100,000 people, Scranton maintains a rate that is very similar to the national average. With 409 reported violent crimes, it falls in line with the national average of 370. This alignment suggests that Scranton shares a similar crime profile with other cities, highlighting its comparable level of safety within the broader urban landscape.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Scranton?

AreaVibes surveyed 53 local residents in Scranton to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 42% of people answered that there was very little crime in Scranton and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 58% 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 Scranton a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in Scranton, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Scranton presents a total crime rate that is 10% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Scranton experiences an average of 4.36 daily crimes, comprising 0.85 violent incidents and 3.51 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.

Has Crime in Scranton Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Scranton. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Scranton has increased by 19.8%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 7.6%, while property crime has increased by 23.2%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Scranton.

Potential Causes for Crime in Scranton

Scranton has a poverty rate that stands at 21.8, 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 Scranton 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.

In Scranton, the cost of living is 11.77% lower than the national average. A high cost of living can induce economic stress for locals, especially those with limited financial resources. When people grapple with soaring housing expenses, utility bills, healthcare costs, and other essential necessities, they may be driven towards criminal activities, including theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities boasting a lower cost of living may mitigate economic pressures and potentially result in reduced crime rates.

In Scranton, the ratio of police officers and civilians stands at 2.23 per 1,000 residents, contrasting with the national average of 3.25. This discrepancy highlights the potential impact of law enforcement and community policing on crime rates. The strength of their collaboration can serve as a deterrent to criminal behavior, fostering a safer environment. Effective law enforcement leans heavily on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and cooperation between police and residents. It's essential to recognize that the effectiveness of these efforts isn't solely tied to the quantity of officers but also hinges on the quality of their engagement with the community.

Scranton crime map