| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Bowie/100k people | Maryland/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 1,408 | n/a (estimate) | 2,473 | 2,470 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 7.2 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 20 | n/a | 35.1 | 33.0 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 33 | n/a | 58.0 | 123.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 57 | n/a | 100.1 | 257.0 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 110 | n/a (estimate) | 193 | 420 | 359 |
| Burglary | 79 | n/a | 138.8 | 190.0 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 1,003 | n/a | 1,761.8 | 1,446.8 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 216 | n/a | 379.4 | 412.8 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 1,298 | n/a (estimate) | 2,280 | 2,050 | 1,760 |

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 Bowie crime rate is higher than the national average by 16.7%. Specifically, there were 110 violent crimes in Bowie, equivalent to 193 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 46.2%. Furthermore, Bowie recorded 1298 property crimes, amounting to 2280 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 29.5%.
In the latest reported crime year, Bowie recorded zero homicides. This statistic potentially positions the city as a paragon of security, radiating a profound sense of safety for its residents. A low number of severe violent crimes instills a deep feeling of well-being among its community but also establishes a lofty benchmark for other locales aspiring to foster equally secure environments.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Bowie residents. Out of the respondents (24 in total), 54% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Bowie were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 46% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Bowie 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 Bowie crime rate is 17% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 3.86 crimes per day - 0.3 violent crimes and 3.56 property crimes.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Bowie. 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 Bowie has increased by 100.6%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 52.8%, while property crime has increased by 106%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Bowie.
If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Bowie crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Bowie has an unemployment rate of 3.6%, compared to a national average of 4.9%.
The impact of law enforcement and community policing efforts plays a crucial role in shaping crime rates in any city. A robust and cooperative bond between law enforcement and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, enhancing overall safety. In Bowie, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 1.08, differing from the national average of 3.25. Effective law enforcement hinges not solely on officer numbers but also on the manner in which they interact and collaborate with the community. Building trust and cooperation are central tenets of community policing, amplifying its influence on crime prevention.
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 Bowie, the average monthly rent stands at $2,945, while the national average is $1,444 per month.
| Item | Bowie | Maryland | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 60 | 5,343 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.1 | 3.3 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Maryland /100K | National /100K |
| Maryland | 7,370 | 135 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Highland, MD | 1,126 | 59 | 288 | 347 |
| Crownsville, MD | 1,506 | 59 | 288 | 347 |
| Galesville, MD | 1,299 | 59 | 288 | 347 |
| Herald Harbor, MD | 2,496 | 66 | 322 | 387 |
| Queensland, MD | 1,843 | 68 | 330 | 398 |
| Arden on the Severn, MD | 1,501 | 79 | 387 | 466 |
| Spencerville, MD | 1,719 | 88 | 429 | 517 |
| Bowie, MD | 60,153 | 193 | 2,280 | 2,473 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Casper, WY | 60,154 | 289 | 2,112 | 2,401 |
| Greenwood, IN | 60,157 | 109 | 1,529 | 1,638 |
| Des Plaines, IL | 60,159 | 121 | 1,140 | 1,260 |
| Orland Park, IL | 60,161 | 28 | 1,097 | 1,126 |
| Great Falls, MT | 60,209 | 574 | 3,426 | 4,001 |
| Bowie, MD | 60,153 | 193 | 2,280 | 2,473 |