| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | West Lafayette/100k people | Indiana/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 503 | n/a (estimate) | 1,120 | 1,850 | 2,324 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 6.2 | 6.3 |
| Rape | 14 | n/a | 31.2 | 32.8 | 40.0 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 4.5 | 43.0 | 66.1 |
| Assault | 30 | n/a | 66.8 | 224.2 | 268.2 |
| Violent crime | 46 | n/a (estimate) | 102 | 306 | 370 |
| Burglary | 43 | n/a | 95.8 | 226.1 | 269.8 |
| Theft | 383 | n/a | 853.2 | 1,118.6 | 1,401.9 |
| Vehicle theft | 31 | n/a | 69.1 | 199.4 | 282.7 |
| Property crime | 457 | n/a (estimate) | 1,018 | 1,544 | 1,954 |
Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in West Lafayette is 51.8% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In West Lafayette, there were 46 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 102 per 100,000 individuals, 72.3% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 457 property crimes, amounting to 1018 per 100,000 residents, 47.9% lower than the U.S. average.
With only 102 incidents per 100,000 people, West Lafayette boasts an exceptionally low rate of violent crimes, positioning it as one of the safest cities in the United States. Given these low violent crime rates, West Lafayette has become an appealing destination for individuals in search of a secure and welcoming place to establish their new home.
In a remarkable testament to the city's commitment to safety, West Lafayette reported a murder rate of 0. This could indicate that it is a very safe place to live, but also serves as an inspiration to other urban areas striving for safer communities. Examining the full crime report will provide a complete overview of all crimes - violent and property.
What is the prevailing sentiment among West Lafayette residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 15 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 80% of West Lafayette 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, 20% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Determining whether West Lafayette is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, West Lafayette has an overall crime rate that is 52% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 1.38 daily occurrences, comprising 0.13 violent crimes and 1.25 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of West Lafayette as a potential place to establish residency.
Year-over-year crime rates in West Lafayette has increased by 9.1% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not West Lafayette 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 increased by 18%, while property crime has increased by 8.3%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in West Lafayette.
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 West Lafayette crime rates. West Lafayette registers a population density of 3654.6 people per square mile, in contrast to the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.
The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in West Lafayette stands at $235,300, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.
West Lafayette has an average rental rate of $915 per month, compared to the national average of $949. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.
| Item | West Lafayette | Indiana | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 64 | 8,766 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | n/a | 2.4 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Indiana /100K | National /100K |
| Indiana | 12,315 | 198 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Battle Ground, IN | 1,796 | 81 | 411 | 492 |
| Shadeland, IN | 2,260 | 88 | 446 | 535 |
| Mulberry, IN | 1,319 | 125 | 629 | 754 |
| Brookston, IN | 1,398 | 133 | 669 | 801 |
| Otterbein, IN | 1,023 | 140 | 704 | 844 |
| Americus, IN | 234 | 173 | 873 | 1,046 |
| Delphi, IN | 2,979 | 190 | 958 | 1,147 |
| West Lafayette, IN | 49,668 | 102 | 1,018 | 1,120 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Mishawaka, IN | 49,675 | 282 | 2,867 | 3,150 |
| North Bethesda, MD | 49,719 | 172 | 706 | 878 |
| Azusa, CA | 49,584 | 289 | 2,075 | 2,364 |
| Poway, CA | 49,780 | 173 | 956 | 1,129 |
| Kannapolis, NC | 49,788 | 196 | 2,046 | 2,242 |
| West Lafayette, IN | 49,668 | 102 | 1,018 | 1,120 |
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