Taos, NM Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Taos, NM

The Taos crime rates are 204.5% higher than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 46 violent crimes in Taos (696 per 100,000 people), which is 88.1% higher than the national average and there were a total of 422 property crimes (6381 per 100,000 residents) which is 226.5% higher than average.

With a crime rate of 7077 per 100,000 residents, Taos has a crime rate that is 204.49% higher than the national average. This results in one of the highest total crime rates in the entire country. This does not necessarily mean that the entire city is unsafe. As with any area, there are some pockets in Taos that are much safer than others. A little research will go a long way in determining which areas could potentially offer a safer living environment.

In the latest reported crime year, Taos 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.

Taos faces some of the nation's most elevated property crime rates, recording 6381 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 Taos stands at 1 in 16, 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.

The surge in vehicle thefts is a concerning trend across the United States, and Taos is no exception, experiencing one of the nation's highest vehicle theft rates. Last year, Taos reported a total of 37 vehicle thefts, resulting in 560 stolen vehicles per 100,000 people. This places the city in the lowest 10% tier among all cities, indicating that 90% of cities have less stolen vehicles. The probability of a vehicle being stolen stands at 1 in 179, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance and security measures.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Taos?

AreaVibes surveyed 36 local residents in Taos to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 44% of people answered that there was very little crime in Taos and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 56% 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 Taos a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Taos 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, Taos has an overall crime rate that is 204% higher than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 1.28 daily occurrences, comprising 0.13 violent crimes and 1.16 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Taos as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Taos Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Taos. 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 Taos has increased by 46.3%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 48.4%, while property crime has increased by 46%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Taos.

Potential Causes for Crime in Taos

Taos 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 Taos 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.

Law enforcement and community policing efforts can play a pivotal role in shaping crime rates. Establishing a robust and cooperative partnership between the police and the community can act as a deterrent to criminal behavior and enhance overall safety. In Taos, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 6.12 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents compared to 3.25 nationally. Effective law enforcement often hinges on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the community. It's not solely about the quantity of officers but also the quality of their engagement with the community.

In Taos, the average rental rates are $775 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.

Taos crime map