| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Dover/100k people | New Hampshire/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 353 | n/a (estimate) | 1,055 | 1,137 | 2,324 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 1.8 | 6.3 |
| Rape | 3 | n/a | 9.0 | 39.6 | 40.0 |
| Robbery | 3 | n/a | 9.0 | 16.1 | 66.1 |
| Assault | 7 | n/a | 20.9 | 68.1 | 268.2 |
| Violent crime | 13 | n/a (estimate) | 39 | 126 | 370 |
| Burglary | 15 | n/a | 44.8 | 73.5 | 269.8 |
| Theft | 308 | n/a | 920.7 | 871.0 | 1,401.9 |
| Vehicle theft | 17 | n/a | 50.8 | 66.5 | 282.7 |
| Property crime | 340 | n/a (estimate) | 1,016 | 1,011 | 1,954 |
When we analyze the latest crime report, the Dover crime rate is 54.6% lower 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 Dover, there were 13 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 39 per 100,000 individuals, 89.5% lower than the national average. Additionally, Dover recorded 340 property crimes, amounting to 1016 per 100,000 residents, 48% lower than the U.S. average.
With only 39 incidents per 100,000 people, Dover 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, Dover has become an appealing destination for individuals in search of a secure and welcoming place to establish their new home.
Dover 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 conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Dover residents. Out of the respondents (23 in total), 65% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Dover were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 35% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
To determine if Dover is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Dover has a total crime rate that is 55% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.97 daily crimes (0.04 violent daily crimes and 0.93 daily property crimes) in Dover.
Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Dover. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Dover has increased by 4.1%. Violent crimes have decreased by 45.8%, while property crimes have increased by 7.9%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.
High population density areas are often large urban centers with diverse economic opportunities. These areas can exacerbate income inequality, with pockets of poverty existing alongside affluence. Areas with economic disparities may experience higher property crimes and, in some cases, violent crimes. On the other hand, areas with low population density tend to see lower Dover crime rates. The population density in Dover is 1194.3 people per square mile, while the national average is 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 Dover stands at $274,100, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.
Dover has an average rental rate of $1,184 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 | Dover | New Hampshire | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 66 | 1,969 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.2 | 2.4 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | New Hampshire /100K | National /100K |
| New Hampshire | 2,616 | 204 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Kittery Point, ME | 1,034 | 14 | 170 | 185 |
| York Harbor, ME | 3,484 | 16 | 190 | 207 |
| Cape Neddick, ME | 2,563 | 16 | 190 | 207 |
| Newfields, NH | 254 | 0 | 227 | 227 |
| South Eliot, ME | 3,047 | 28 | 332 | 360 |
| Durham, NH | 12,016 | 58 | 315 | 373 |
| North Berwick, ME | 1,716 | 97 | 387 | 484 |
| Dover, NH | 31,922 | 39 | 1,016 | 1,055 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Los Gatos, CA | 31,943 | 171 | 1,827 | 1,997 |
| Wheat Ridge, CO | 31,889 | 393 | 5,078 | 5,471 |
| Kaysville, UT | 31,957 | 64 | 791 | 854 |
| Spring Valley, CA | 31,866 | 610 | 2,857 | 3,466 |
| Des Moines, WA | 31,983 | 304 | 3,491 | 3,795 |
| Dover, NH | 31,922 | 39 | 1,016 | 1,055 |
Here are the best places to live in New Hampshire
Check out the 10 safest cities in New Hampshire
Top 10 best public schools in Dover
See the best places to live in & around Dover