Westborough, MA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Westborough, MA

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 Westborough crime rate is lower than the national average by 54.9%. Specifically, there were 29 violent crimes in Westborough, equivalent to 134 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 63.6%. Furthermore, Westborough recorded 197 property crimes, amounting to 914 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 53.3%.

In a remarkable testament to the city's commitment to safety, Westborough reported a murder rate of 0. This could indicate that it is a very safe place to live, but also serves as an inspiration to other urban areas striving for safer communities. Examining the full crime report will provide a complete overview of all crimes - violent and property.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Westborough?

What do the local residents think about crime in Westborough? Well, based on a recent survey of 6 people (conducted by AreaVibes), 33% of Westborough residents said that there was virtually no crime and that they felt safe walking at night. Another 67% of respondents said that there was too much crime in the area and they did not feel safe walking alone at night.

Is Westborough a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in Westborough, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Westborough presents a total crime rate that is 55% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Westborough experiences an average of 0.62 daily crimes, comprising 0.08 violent incidents and 0.54 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 Westborough Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Westborough. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Westborough has increased by 26.3%. Violent crimes have decreased by 17.1%, while property crimes have increased by 36.8%. 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 Westborough

Westborough has a poverty rate that stands at 9.7, 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 Westborough 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 Westborough, the cost of living is 36.9% higher 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 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 Westborough is $413,300, compared to a national average of $184,700.

Westborough crime map