| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Wilkesboro/100k people | North Carolina/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 204 | n/a (estimate) | 5,719 | 2,469 | 2,324 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 8.1 | 6.3 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 28.0 | 30.5 | 40.0 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 56.1 | 54.9 | 66.1 |
| Assault | 14 | n/a | 392.5 | 311.6 | 268.2 |
| Violent crime | 17 | n/a (estimate) | 477 | 405 | 370 |
| Burglary | 29 | n/a | 813.0 | 370.8 | 269.8 |
| Theft | 145 | n/a | 4,065.0 | 1,494.0 | 1,401.9 |
| Vehicle theft | 13 | n/a | 364.5 | 199.3 | 282.7 |
| Property crime | 187 | n/a (estimate) | 5,243 | 2,064 | 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 Wilkesboro crime rate is higher than the national average by 146.1%. Specifically, there were 17 violent crimes in Wilkesboro, equivalent to 477 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 28.9%. Furthermore, Wilkesboro recorded 187 property crimes, amounting to 5243 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 168.2%.
Wilkesboro has a crime rate of 5719 per 100,000 people, which surpasses the national average by 146.07%, leading to one of the highest total crime rates in the United States. Addressing this issue is vital for improving overall safety and desirability of Wilkesboro. Efforts to reduce crime through community engagement, effective law enforcement, and collaborative initiatives are essential to create a more secure and appealing environment for residents and prospective newcomers alike.
Wilkesboro 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.
Every year, one in 20 people fall victim to a property crime in Wilkesboro - which is high compared to the national average. With a property crime rate of 5243 per 100,000 people, Wilkesboro has one of the highest property crime rates in the country. In fact, the city ranks among the worst 10% of all cities that reported crime last year.
AreaVibes surveyed 8 local residents in Wilkesboro to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 50% of people answered that there was very little crime in Wilkesboro and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 50% 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.
Determining whether Wilkesboro 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, Wilkesboro has an overall crime rate that is 146% higher than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.56 daily occurrences, comprising 0.05 violent crimes and 0.51 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Wilkesboro as a potential place to establish residency.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Wilkesboro. 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 Wilkesboro has decreased by 40.4%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 22.7%, while property crime has decreased by 41.6%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Wilkesboro.
In Wilkesboro, the cost of living is 6% lower than the national average. A high cost of living can induce economic stress for locals, especially those with limited financial resources. When people grapple with soaring housing expenses, utility bills, healthcare costs, and other essential necessities, they may be driven towards criminal activities, including theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities boasting a lower cost of living may mitigate economic pressures and potentially result in reduced crime rates.
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 Wilkesboro, there are 6.7 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.
In cities grappling with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves needing to reside in cramped or subpar housing conditions, elevating stress levels and potentially fueling domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. Wilkesboro has a median home price of $170,200, deviating from the national average of $184,700. Large disparities in housing costs can significantly impact the well-being of residents and the prevalence of crime within the community.
| Item | Wilkesboro | North Carolina | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 23 | 14,511 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 6.7 | 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 |
| Mulberry, NC | 2,055 | 160 | 816 | 976 |
| Moravian Falls, NC | 2,074 | 167 | 851 | 1,018 |
| Millers Creek, NC | 1,461 | 183 | 931 | 1,113 |
| Hays, NC | 1,360 | 183 | 933 | 1,116 |
| Cricket, NC | 2,453 | 199 | 1,016 | 1,215 |
| Fairplains, NC | 1,757 | 210 | 1,069 | 1,279 |
| North Wilkesboro, NC | 4,139 | 356 | 2,705 | 3,061 |
| Wilkesboro, NC | 3,457 | 477 | 5,243 | 5,719 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Gravette, AR | 3,456 | 269 | 1,612 | 1,881 |
| Pawhuska, OK | 3,456 | 239 | 1,847 | 2,086 |
| Elm Creek, TX | 3,455 | 264 | 1,407 | 1,671 |
| Seymour, WI | 3,459 | 199 | 199 | 399 |
| Hobart, OK | 3,460 | 150 | 1,077 | 1,226 |
| Wilkesboro, NC | 3,457 | 477 | 5,243 | 5,719 |
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