| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Columbia/100k people | Alabama/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 1 | n/a (estimate) | 145 | 2,148 | 2,324 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 10.9 | 6.3 |
| Rape | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 29.6 | 40.0 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 34.5 | 66.1 |
| Assault | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 334.1 | 268.2 |
| Violent crime | 0 | n/a (estimate) | 0 | 409 | 370 |
| Burglary | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 283.9 | 269.8 |
| Theft | 1 | n/a | 144.7 | 1,252.7 | 1,401.9 |
| Vehicle theft | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 202.3 | 282.7 |
| Property crime | 1 | n/a (estimate) | 145 | 1,739 | 1,954 |
The Columbia crime rates are 93.8% 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 0 violent crimes in Columbia (0 per 100,000 people), which is 100% lower than the national average and there were a total of 1 property crimes (145 per 100,000 residents) which is 92.6% lower than average.
With a crime rate of 145, significantly below the national average of 2324, Columbia stands out as one of the safest places to reside in the United States. This distinction is primarily attributed to the calculation of total crimes, which encompasses both violent and property crimes per 100,000 residents.
Columbia proudly boasts an impeccable safety record with no reported instances of violent crime. This remarkable accomplishment reflects the city's dedication to fostering a secure environment for its residents and visitors. In an age where safety is so important, Columbia shines as a beacon of tranquility. This absence of violent crime not only solidifies its reputation as a desirable place to live and visit but also provides a profound sense of security for all residents.
In the latest reported crime year, Columbia 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.
Since 1990, property crime rates per 100,000 people in the United States have steadily decreased. Recently, the average did increase slightly. Having said that, Columbia has a property crime rate that is well below the national average with only 145 reported property crimes compared to the national average of 1954. Based on this report, Columbia remains a very safe place to live with regards to property crime.
The United States contends with some of the globe's most elevated vehicle theft rates, reaching around 300 incidents per 100,000 individuals. Remarkably, merely a small fraction, approximately 10%, of cities have been fortunate enough to remain unscathed by vehicle theft reports. In this regard, Columbia stands out as one of those cities, as it reported no vehicle thefts in its most recent crime report.
Is Columbia a safe place to live? While the answer may not be straightforward due to variations in safety levels across the city, gaining an understanding of the overall crime rate can prove to be advantageous. In general, Columbia has a crime rate that is lower than the national average by 94%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 0 daily incidents, encompassing 0 violent crimes and 0 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Columbia as a potential place to call home.
The economic well-being of a city's residents plays a significant role in crime rates. High poverty rates and income inequality can lead to increased crime stats as individuals may resort to illegal activities to meet their basic needs. While lower rates could lead to a lower Columbia crime rate. The poverty level in Columbia is 13.2%, while the national average is 15.1%.
The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Columbia, there are 2.67 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage with the community.
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 Columbia is $82,600, compared to a national average of $184,700.
| Item | Columbia | Alabama | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 2 | 9,968 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.7 | 4.1 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Alabama /100K | National /100K |
| Alabama | 10,698 | 231 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Kinsey, AL | 2,458 | 0 | 44 | 44 |
| Ashford, AL | 2,431 | 177 | 443 | 621 |
| Webb, AL | 1,437 | 182 | 774 | 956 |
| Headland, AL | 4,684 | 38 | 959 | 996 |
| Cowarts, AL | 2,153 | 200 | 852 | 1,052 |
| Haleburg, AL | 120 | 431 | 1,832 | 2,262 |
| Gordon, AL | 258 | 0 | 2,389 | 2,389 |
| Columbia, AL | 832 | 0 | 145 | 145 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Asherton, TX | 832 | 692 | 3,683 | 4,375 |
| Indian Springs, NV | 832 | 645 | 3,379 | 4,024 |
| Oppelo, AR | 832 | 775 | 2,945 | 3,720 |
| Minor, AL | 832 | 181 | 771 | 952 |
| Gayle Mill, SC | 832 | 793 | 3,730 | 4,523 |
| Columbia, AL | 832 | 0 | 145 | 145 |
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