| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Elko/100k people | Nevada/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 494 | n/a (estimate) | 2,391 | 2,834 | 2,324 |
| Murder | 1 | n/a | 4.8 | 6.8 | 6.3 |
| Rape | 16 | n/a | 77.4 | 58.9 | 40.0 |
| Robbery | 10 | n/a | 48.4 | 86.1 | 66.1 |
| Assault | 69 | n/a | 333.9 | 302.3 | 268.2 |
| Violent crime | 96 | n/a (estimate) | 465 | 454 | 370 |
| Burglary | 71 | n/a | 343.6 | 436.1 | 269.8 |
| Theft | 264 | n/a | 1,277.6 | 1,453.5 | 1,401.9 |
| Vehicle theft | 63 | n/a | 304.9 | 490.5 | 282.7 |
| Property crime | 398 | n/a (estimate) | 1,926 | 2,380 | 1,954 |
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 Elko crime rate is higher than the national average by 2.9%. Specifically, there were 96 violent crimes in Elko, equivalent to 465 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 25.6%. Furthermore, Elko recorded 398 property crimes, amounting to 1926 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 1.5%.
The Elko crime rate is about average when compared to all the other cities across the U.S. per 100,000 residents. When we compared the total crimes (violent and property) in Elko, we found that the reported crime rates were almost equal to the average of all other areas that reported crime.
Elko has a property crime rate that closely mirrors the national average. There were a total of 1926 property crimes in Elko, while the national average was 1954 per 100,000 people. This results in the area being no safer or more dangerous than the average city.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Elko residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 26 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 19% of Elko 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, 81% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
To determine if Elko 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. Elko has a total crime rate that is 3% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 1.35 daily crimes (0.26 violent daily crimes and 1.09 daily property crimes) in Elko.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Elko. 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 Elko has decreased by 26.9%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 5.5%, while property crime has decreased by 32%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Elko.
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 Elko crime rate. The poverty level in Elko is 12.4%, while the national average is 15.1%.
In areas where employment options are limited or where a significant proportion of jobs offer meager wages, the likelihood of heightened unemployment and homelessness increases. Regions facing challenges related to unemployment or inadequate income may become more vulnerable to a surge in crime stemming from economic instability. While low unemployment rates tend to lead to reduced crime in most areas. Elko currently has an unemployment rate of 2.7%, contrasting with the national average of 4.7%. This could be one of many factors that could contribute to a higher or lower crime rate.
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 Elko, there are 2.4 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.
| Item | Elko | Nevada | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 45 | 6,127 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.4 | 2.7 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Nevada /100K | National /100K |
| Nevada | 8,163 | 394 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Spring Creek, NV | 14,510 | 316 | 1,657 | 1,973 |
| Osino, NV | 628 | 553 | 2,901 | 3,455 |
| Elko, NV | 20,396 | 465 | 1,926 | 2,391 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Forest Lake, MN | 20,393 | 102 | 1,970 | 2,072 |
| Northfield, MN | 20,399 | 125 | 742 | 868 |
| Golden, CO | 20,391 | 209 | 4,058 | 4,267 |
| Crest Hill, IL | 20,388 | 262 | 1,065 | 1,327 |
| Bayshore Gardens, FL | 20,380 | 369 | 2,233 | 2,602 |
| Elko, NV | 20,396 | 465 | 1,926 | 2,391 |
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