Summersville, WV Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Summersville, WV

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Summersville is 17.4% higher 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 Summersville, there were 7 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 208 per 100,000 individuals, 43.9% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 85 property crimes, amounting to 2522 per 100,000 residents, 29% higher than the U.S. average.

In the most recently reported crime year, Summersville registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.

Is Summersville a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Summersville 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 Summersville crime rate is 17% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.25 crimes per day - 0.02 violent crimes and 0.23 property crimes.

Has Crime in Summersville Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Summersville. 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 Summersville has increased by 33.3%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 75%, while property crime has increased by 30.8%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Summersville.

Potential Causes for Crime in Summersville

The economic prosperity of a city's inhabitants exerts substantial influence on crime stats. Elevated poverty rates and income inequality can precipitate heightened criminal activity, as individuals may turn to illicit means to fulfill their fundamental requirements. While lower poverty rates could lead to lower Summersville crime rates. In Summersville, the poverty rate stands at 16.1%, diverging from the national average of 15.1%.

In Summersville, the current unemployment rate stands at 2%, diverging from the national average of 4.7%. The availability of job opportunities is a pivotal factor influencing unemployment and underemployment rates. Communities where individuals contend with limited employment prospects or a preponderance of low-wage positions may witness elevated rates of joblessness and income inadequacy, which can contribute to heightened crime levels driven by financial insecurity. Conversely, areas characterized by robust employment rates often experience a reduction in overall Summersville crime rates.

In Summersville, the average rental rates are $541 per month, compared to the national average of $949. 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.

Summersville crime map