| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Waynesville/100k people | North Carolina/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 396 | n/a (estimate) | 3,873 | 2,469 | 2,324 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 8.1 | 6.3 |
| Rape | 5 | n/a | 48.9 | 30.5 | 40.0 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 19.6 | 54.9 | 66.1 |
| Assault | 37 | n/a | 361.9 | 311.6 | 268.2 |
| Violent crime | 44 | n/a (estimate) | 430 | 405 | 370 |
| Burglary | 39 | n/a | 381.4 | 370.8 | 269.8 |
| Theft | 300 | n/a | 2,934.0 | 1,494.0 | 1,401.9 |
| Vehicle theft | 13 | n/a | 127.1 | 199.3 | 282.7 |
| Property crime | 352 | n/a (estimate) | 3,443 | 2,064 | 1,954 |
When we analyze the latest crime report, the Waynesville crime rate is 66.6% 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 Waynesville, there were 44 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 430 per 100,000 individuals, 16.4% higher than the national average. Additionally, Waynesville recorded 352 property crimes, amounting to 3443 per 100,000 residents, 76.1% higher than the U.S. average.
Waynesville 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.
AreaVibes surveyed 25 local residents in Waynesville to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 68% of people answered that there was very little crime in Waynesville and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 32% 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 Waynesville 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 Waynesville crime rate is 67% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 1.08 crimes per day - 0.12 violent crimes and 0.96 property crimes.
Year-over-year crime rates in Waynesville has decreased by 50.6% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Waynesville is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. Crime rates are categorized by violent and property crime. Year-over-year violent crime has decreased by 13.7%, while property crime has decreased by 53.1%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Waynesville.
Waynesville has a poverty rate of 20.4, 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.
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. Waynesville currently has an unemployment rate of 1.3%, 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.
Elevated rental costs can generate economic strain for both individuals and families, particularly those with restricted financial means. When a substantial proportion of one's income is allocated to housing costs, it often leaves limited resources for fulfilling other crucial necessities such as groceries, healthcare and education. This financial pressure can fuel desperation, potentially prompting individuals to resort to criminal actions, including theft or fraud, as a means of coping with their financial hardships. In Waynesville, the average monthly rent stands at $794, while the national average is $949 per month.
| Item | Waynesville | North Carolina | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 42 | 14,511 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 4.2 | 4.8 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | North Carolina /100K | National /100K |
| North Carolina | 26,293 | 320 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Lake Junaluska, NC | 3,252 | 99 | 506 | 606 |
| Clyde, NC | 1,483 | 158 | 806 | 964 |
| West Canton, NC | 1,432 | 168 | 859 | 1,027 |
| Forest Hills, NC | 325 | 208 | 1,061 | 1,269 |
| Webster, NC | 325 | 338 | 1,722 | 2,060 |
| Dillsboro, NC | 219 | 354 | 1,803 | 2,157 |
| Cullowhee, NC | 6,798 | 400 | 2,038 | 2,438 |
| Waynesville, NC | 10,145 | 430 | 3,443 | 3,873 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Snohomish, WA | 10,141 | 207 | 2,716 | 2,923 |
| Wood River, IL | 10,149 | 357 | 2,377 | 2,734 |
| Mentone, CA | 10,141 | 578 | 2,706 | 3,284 |
| Lantana, TX | 10,152 | 152 | 807 | 959 |
| Fountain Inn, SC | 10,127 | 451 | 1,788 | 2,239 |
| Waynesville, NC | 10,145 | 430 | 3,443 | 3,873 |
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