| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Westerly/100k people | Rhode Island/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 230 | n/a (estimate) | 977 | 1,186 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 2.1 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 3 | n/a | 12.7 | 29.5 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 22.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 12 | n/a | 51.0 | 99.8 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 15 | n/a (estimate) | 64 | 154 | 359 |
| Burglary | 12 | n/a | 51.0 | 91.0 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 181 | n/a | 768.9 | 820.5 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 22 | n/a | 93.5 | 120.9 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 215 | n/a (estimate) | 913 | 1,032 | 1,760 |
When we analyze the latest crime report, the Westerly crime rate is 53.9% 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 Westerly, there were 15 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 64 per 100,000 individuals, 82.3% lower than the national average. Additionally, Westerly recorded 215 property crimes, amounting to 913 per 100,000 residents, 48.1% lower than the U.S. average.
With only 64 incidents per 100,000 people, Westerly boasts an exceptionally low rate of violent crimes, positioning it as one of the safest cities in the United States. Given these low violent crime rates, Westerly has become an appealing destination for individuals in search of a secure and welcoming place to establish their new home.
In the most recently reported crime year, Westerly 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.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Westerly residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 12 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 92% of Westerly residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 8% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Determining whether Westerly 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, Westerly has an overall crime rate that is 54% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.63 daily occurrences, comprising 0.04 violent crimes and 0.59 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Westerly as a potential place to establish residency.
Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Westerly. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Westerly has increased by 25%. Violent crimes have increased by 7.1%, while property crimes have increased by 26.5%. 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.
High population density areas are often large urban centers with diverse economic opportunities. These areas can exacerbate income inequality, with pockets of poverty existing alongside affluence. Areas with economic disparities may experience higher property crimes and, in some cases, violent crimes. On the other hand, areas with low population density tend to see lower Westerly crime rates. The population density in Westerly is 1169.5 people per square mile, while the national average is 90.6 people per square mile.
Rising cost of living expenses, including increased housing costs, grocery, utility and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards crime, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In Westerly, the cost of living is 21.95% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.
Westerly has an average rental rate of $1,577 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Item | Westerly | Rhode Island | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 61 | 1,505 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.7 | 2.6 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Rhode Island /100K | National /100K |
| Rhode Island | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Noank, CT | 1,502 | 19 | 192 | 211 |
| Hope Valley, RI | 1,957 | 45 | 304 | 349 |
| Ashaway, RI | 1,489 | 50 | 333 | 383 |
| Hopkinton, RI | 628 | 47 | 340 | 387 |
| Mystic, CT | 4,893 | 37 | 370 | 407 |
| Bradford, RI | 1,313 | 61 | 408 | 469 |
| Misquamicut, RI | 392 | 62 | 417 | 479 |
| Westerly, RI | 18,517 | 64 | 913 | 977 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Avon, IN | 18,517 | 135 | 1,607 | 1,742 |
| Sheridan, WY | 18,519 | 136 | 989 | 1,126 |
| Canby, OR | 18,522 | 213 | 901 | 1,114 |
| Dover, NJ | 18,528 | 223 | 870 | 1,093 |
| Upper Grand Lagoon, FL | 18,531 | 161 | 858 | 1,019 |
| Westerly, RI | 18,517 | 64 | 913 | 977 |
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