| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Ashland/100k people | Virginia/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 213 | n/a (estimate) | 2,695 | 1,788 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 4.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 12.7 | 27.8 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 3 | n/a | 38.0 | 33.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 43 | n/a | 544.1 | 152.2 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 47 | n/a (estimate) | 595 | 218 | 359 |
| Burglary | 5 | n/a | 63.3 | 108.7 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 146 | n/a | 1,847.4 | 1,315.9 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 15 | n/a | 189.8 | 145.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 166 | n/a (estimate) | 2,100 | 1,570 | 1,760 |

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Ashland crime rate is 27.2% 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 Ashland, there were 47 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 595 per 100,000 individuals, 65.6% higher than the national average. Additionally, Ashland recorded 166 property crimes, amounting to 2100 per 100,000 residents, 19.3% higher than the U.S. average.
In a remarkable testament to the city's commitment to safety, Ashland 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 Ashland residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 7 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 29% of Ashland 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, 71% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Is Ashland a safe place to live? While the answer may not be straightforward due to variations in safety levels across the city, gaining an understanding of the overall crime rate can prove to be advantageous. In general, Ashland has a crime rate that is higher than the national average by 27%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 0.58 daily incidents, encompassing 0.13 violent crimes and 0.45 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Ashland as a potential place to call home.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Ashland. 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 Ashland has increased by 23.8%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 27%, while property crime has increased by 23%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Ashland.
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 Ashland crime rates. Ashland registers a population density of 1115 people per square mile, in contrast to the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.
The educational level within a community can have an influence on crime rates. Typically, higher levels of education are associated with reduced crime rates, as they offer individuals improved employment prospects and alternatives to engaging in criminal activities. Conversely, lower educational attainment tends to correspond with higher crime rates. In Ashland, 79% of residents have achieved at least a high school diploma, which differs from the national average of 83%.
High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Ashland are $1,597, compared to a national average of $1,444 per month.
| Item | Ashland | Virginia | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 27 | 8,827 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 3.7 | 3.2 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Virginia /100K | National /100K |
| Virginia | 25,766 | 352 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Wyndham, VA | 12,054 | 83 | 598 | 681 |
| Short Pump, VA | 27,939 | 94 | 678 | 772 |
| Innsbrook, VA | 9,413 | 116 | 834 | 950 |
| Tuckahoe, VA | 49,974 | 141 | 1,013 | 1,154 |
| Chamberlayne, VA | 5,254 | 167 | 1,205 | 1,372 |
| Rockwood, VA | 8,294 | 185 | 1,330 | 1,514 |
| Glen Allen, VA | 15,320 | 192 | 1,383 | 1,575 |
| Ashland, VA | 8,026 | 595 | 2,100 | 2,695 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Ripley, TN | 8,025 | 1,743 | 2,152 | 3,894 |
| Floris, VA | 8,028 | 76 | 551 | 627 |
| Centerville, GA | 8,028 | 305 | 1,567 | 1,872 |
| Grove City, PA | 8,030 | 168 | 491 | 658 |
| Jerseyville, IL | 8,030 | 85 | 1,626 | 1,711 |
| Ashland, VA | 8,026 | 595 | 2,100 | 2,695 |