Sylva, NC Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Sylva, NC

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 Sylva crime rate is higher than the national average by 141.9%. Specifically, there were 13 violent crimes in Sylva, equivalent to 494 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 33.5%. Furthermore, Sylva recorded 135 property crimes, amounting to 5127 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 162.3%.

Having a crime rate of 5621 per 100,000 residents, Sylva experiences a crime rate that is 141.85% higher when compared to the national average, leading to one of the highest overall crime rates in the nation. It's important to clarify that this doesn't imply the entire city is unsafe. Like any area, Sylva contains neighborhoods with varying safety levels and you can find areas that are notably safer than others, emphasizing the need for targeted crime prevention efforts and community engagement initiatives.

In the latest reported crime year, Sylva 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.

Sylva faces some of the nation's most elevated property crime rates, recording 5127 incidents per 100,000 people. This places the city among the worst 10% of all U.S. cities that reported crime. Regrettably, the likelihood of falling victim to property crime in Sylva stands at 1 in 20, significantly surpassing the national average. These statistics underscore the imperative need for bolstered community safety measures to mitigate property crimes and enhance the well-being of its residents.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Sylva?

AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Sylva residents. Out of the respondents (8 in total), 38% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Sylva were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 63% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.

Is Sylva a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Sylva 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 Sylva crime rate is 142% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.41 crimes per day - 0.04 violent crimes and 0.37 property crimes.

Has Crime in Sylva Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Sylva. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Sylva has increased by 25.4%. Violent crimes have decreased by 35%, while property crimes have increased by 37.8%. 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 Sylva

Sylva has a poverty rate that stands at 22.4, 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 Sylva 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 Sylva, the cost of living is 7.51% lower than the national average. A substantial cost of living can burden residents, particularly those with constrained financial means. When individuals contend with steep housing expenses, grocery bills, utility costs, healthcare and essential needs that strain their budgets, they may turn to criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities characterized by a more affordable cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, which could potentially lead to decreased crime rates.

In areas where housing affordability is an issue, crime can become a significant concern. Some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions, which can increase stress and potentially contribute to domestic disputes and related crimes. The median home price in Sylva is $162,900, compared to a national average of $184,700.

Sylva crime map