Williamstown, MA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Williamstown, MA

The Williamstown crime rates are 68.9% lower 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 6 violent crimes in Williamstown (75 per 100,000 people), which is 79.8% lower than the national average and there were a total of 52 property crimes (648 per 100,000 residents) which is 66.8% lower than average.

Boasting a crime rate of 723, well below the national average of 2324, Williamstown emerges as a standout destination for those seeking a secure place to reside in the United States. This crime rate is derived from the total occurrences of both violent and property crimes per 100,000 residents, underscoring the unwavering dedication of Williamstown to ensure a safe living environment for its residents.

Williamstown shines as one of the safest cities in the United States, thanks to its remarkably low rate of only 75 violent incidents per 100,000 residents. This impressive safety record has made Williamstown an attractive choice for individuals seeking a secure and hospitable community to call home.

Williamstown showcased a dedication to violent crime safety in its latest reported crime year by achieving a murder rate of 0. This accomplishment could indicate that it is a safe place for residents, but also provides a shining example to other urban areas endeavoring to create safer communities.

The property crime rates per 100,000 individuals have shown a steady decrease of more than 50% since 1990, with a slight uptick in recent years. The most recent crime data reveals that Williamstown records a property crime rate of 648 incidents per 100,000 people, significantly lower than the national average of 1954. This underscores Williamstown as an exceptionally secure and attractive residential destination, highlighting its unwavering dedication to fostering safety and community well-being.

Is Williamstown a Safe Place to Live?

To determine if Williamstown is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Williamstown has a total crime rate that is 69% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.16 daily crimes (0.02 violent daily crimes and 0.14 daily property crimes) in Williamstown.

Has Crime in Williamstown Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Williamstown. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Williamstown has increased by 5.5%. Violent crimes have increased by 200%, while property crimes have increased by 1.9%. 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 Williamstown

Williamstown has a poverty rate that stands at 6.2, 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 Williamstown 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 Williamstown, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 2.05 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.

High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Williamstown are $975, compared to a national average of $949 per month.

Williamstown crime map