| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Waterloo/100k people | Nebraska/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 11 | n/a (estimate) | 1,207 | 2,172 | 2,324 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 3.2 | 6.3 |
| Rape | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 55.3 | 40.0 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 29.1 | 66.1 |
| Assault | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 195.2 | 268.2 |
| Violent crime | 0 | n/a (estimate) | 0 | 283 | 370 |
| Burglary | 1 | n/a | 109.8 | 182.5 | 269.8 |
| Theft | 7 | n/a | 768.4 | 1,431.4 | 1,401.9 |
| Vehicle theft | 3 | n/a | 329.3 | 275.0 | 282.7 |
| Property crime | 11 | n/a (estimate) | 1,207 | 1,889 | 1,954 |
When we analyze the latest crime report, the Waterloo crime rate is 48.1% 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 Waterloo, there were 0 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 0 per 100,000 individuals, 100% lower than the national average. Additionally, Waterloo recorded 11 property crimes, amounting to 1207 per 100,000 residents, 38.2% lower than the U.S. average.
Waterloo 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, Waterloo 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.
Waterloo 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.
To get a feel for the safety of living in Waterloo, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Waterloo presents a total crime rate that is 48% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Waterloo experiences an average of 0.03 daily crimes, comprising 0 violent incidents and 0.03 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.
Waterloo has a poverty rate of 4.6, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.
Waterloo has a population density of 1653.7 people per square mile, while with the national average is 90.6 people per square mile. Cities characterized by high population density are frequently larger urban centers offering diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality may be accentuated, resulting in the coexistence of poverty and affluence. Such economic disparities can contribute to elevated property crimes and on occasion, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density generally record lower Waterloo crime rates.
The impact of law enforcement and community policing efforts plays a crucial role in shaping crime rates in any city. A robust and cooperative bond between law enforcement and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, enhancing overall safety. In Waterloo, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 0, differing from the national average of 3.25. Effective law enforcement hinges not solely on officer numbers but also on the manner in which they interact and collaborate with the community. Building trust and cooperation are central tenets of community policing, amplifying its influence on crime prevention.
| Item | Waterloo | Nebraska | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | n/a | 2,523 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | n/a | 2.1 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Nebraska /100K | National /100K |
| Nebraska | 6,070 | 345 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Bennington, NE | 2,075 | 76 | 509 | 585 |
| Valley, NE | 2,834 | 90 | 601 | 692 |
| Arlington, NE | 1,657 | 98 | 652 | 750 |
| Springfield, NE | 1,582 | 99 | 663 | 763 |
| Yutan, NE | 1,075 | 108 | 719 | 827 |
| Wann, NE | 69 | 114 | 763 | 877 |
| Papillion, NE | 24,310 | 92 | 1,144 | 1,236 |
| Waterloo, NE | 1,066 | 0 | 1,207 | 1,207 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Cuba, IL | 1,066 | 158 | 926 | 1,084 |
| Wainaku, HI | 1,066 | 125 | 1,170 | 1,295 |
| Stronghurst, IL | 1,066 | 413 | 2,420 | 2,833 |
| Cohocton, NY | 1,066 | 693 | 2,783 | 3,476 |
| Elsie, MI | 1,066 | 208 | 695 | 904 |
| Waterloo, NE | 1,066 | 0 | 1,207 | 1,207 |
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