| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Waynesboro/100k people | Georgia/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 198 | n/a (estimate) | 3,551 | 2,058 | 2,324 |
| Murder | 1 | n/a | 17.9 | 8.2 | 6.3 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 17.9 | 36.4 | 40.0 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 35.9 | 43.6 | 66.1 |
| Assault | 43 | n/a | 771.2 | 278.8 | 268.2 |
| Violent crime | 47 | n/a (estimate) | 843 | 367 | 370 |
| Burglary | 29 | n/a | 520.1 | 217.8 | 269.8 |
| Theft | 113 | n/a | 2,026.5 | 1,266.5 | 1,401.9 |
| Vehicle theft | 9 | n/a | 161.4 | 206.5 | 282.7 |
| Property crime | 151 | n/a (estimate) | 2,708 | 1,691 | 1,954 |
When we analyze the latest crime report, the Waynesboro crime rate is 52.8% higher 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 Waynesboro, there were 47 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 843 per 100,000 individuals, 127.9% higher than the national average. Additionally, Waynesboro recorded 151 property crimes, amounting to 2708 per 100,000 residents, 38.6% higher than the U.S. average.
Waynesboro ranks among the bottom 10% of all U.S. cities reporting violent crime, earning its reputation as one of the nation's most dangerous areas. With a violent crime rate of 843 per 100,000 people, Waynesboro is considered one of the most unsafe cities in America. This statistic translates to a 1 in 119 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Waynesboro, underscoring the need for increased safety measures and community engagement to improve the city's security.
While murder rates in the United States have shown a consistent decline since 1990, recent years have witnessed an increase. Unfortunately, Waynesboro ranks among the cities with the highest murder rates in the nation, when compared to all reporting cities in the U.S. In Waynesboro, there were a total of 1 murders, translating to 18 murders per 100,000 residents. This alarming statistic underscores the need for heightened attention to community safety and crime prevention efforts in the area.
AreaVibes surveyed 9 local residents in Waynesboro to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 44% of people answered that there was very little crime in Waynesboro and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 56% of people responded that there was far too much crime and they would be hesitant to walk the streets alone at night. Keep in mind that the opinions of residents may vary depending on which area they live in.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Waynesboro a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Waynesboro crime rate is 53% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.54 crimes per day - 0.13 violent crimes and 0.41 property crimes.
In the most recent crime report, year-over-year crime rates in Waynesboro has decreased by 13.2%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Waynesboro, aiding residents in assessing whether it is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. These crime rates are categorized into two primary groups: violent and property crimes. Year-over-year, violent crime has increased by 67.9%, while property crime has decreased by 24.5%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about whether or not Waynesboro is a safe place to live.
Regions characterized by high population density frequently encompass expansive urban hubs that offer diverse economic prospects. In such areas, income inequality can be exacerbated, creating pockets of poverty alongside affluence. Economic disparities within these regions may correlate with elevated property crimes and, in certain instances, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density numbers generally exhibit reduced Waynesboro crime rates. Waynesboro registers a population density of 996.5 people per square mile, in contrast to the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.
The educational level achieved in any given city can influence crime rates significantly. Greater educational achievement is frequently associated with decreased crime rates, as it offers individuals improved job prospects and alternatives to engaging in crime related activities. Conversely, lower educational attainment rates tend to coincide with elevated crime rates. In Waynesboro, 77.3% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, in contrast to the national average where 83% have achieved high school graduation.
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 Waynesboro is $112,700, compared to a national average of $184,700.
| Item | Waynesboro | Georgia | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 32 | 11,364 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 5.4 | 4.0 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Georgia /100K | National /100K |
| Georgia | 23,117 | 275 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Blythe, GA | 686 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Hephzibah, GA | 3,961 | 26 | 2,144 | 2,170 |
| Vidette, GA | 202 | 523 | 2,409 | 2,932 |
| Sardis, GA | 978 | 592 | 2,727 | 3,319 |
| Waynesboro, GA | 5,453 | 843 | 2,708 | 3,551 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Stokesdale, NC | 5,451 | 173 | 882 | 1,055 |
| Old Bethpage, NY | 5,450 | 140 | 560 | 700 |
| Atlanta, TX | 5,458 | 239 | 1,470 | 1,709 |
| Coraopolis, PA | 5,448 | 296 | 999 | 1,295 |
| Rockwood, TN | 5,446 | 736 | 4,613 | 5,349 |
| Waynesboro, GA | 5,453 | 843 | 2,708 | 3,551 |
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