| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Dover/100k people | New Jersey/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 206 | n/a (estimate) | 1,093 | 1,645 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 2.3 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 5 | n/a | 26.5 | 17.3 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 8 | n/a | 42.5 | 49.3 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 29 | n/a | 153.9 | 148.8 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 42 | n/a (estimate) | 223 | 218 | 359 |
| Burglary | 12 | n/a | 63.7 | 145.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 137 | n/a | 727.0 | 1,119.4 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 15 | n/a | 79.6 | 162.6 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 164 | n/a (estimate) | 870 | 1,427 | 1,760 |

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Dover crime rate is 48.4% 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 42 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 223 per 100,000 individuals, 37.9% lower than the national average. Additionally, Dover recorded 164 property crimes, amounting to 870 per 100,000 residents, 50.6% lower than the U.S. average.
During the most recently reported crime year, Dover experienced a total of 0 reported murders. This statistic paints it as a beacon of security when it comes to severe violent crimes. Such an achievement not only instills a profound sense of security for its residents but also sets a high standard for other communities striving to create similarly secure environments. It underscores the area as a place where safety is a top priority, enhancing its appeal as a desirable location to live and thrive.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Dover 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: 57% of Dover 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, 43% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Is Dover 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, Dover has a crime rate that is lower than the national average by 48%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 0.56 daily incidents, encompassing 0.12 violent crimes and 0.45 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Dover as a potential place to call home.
Year-over-year crime rates in Dover has increased by 64.8% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Dover 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 75%, while property crime has increased by 62.4%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Dover.
Dover reports an unemployment rate of 3.4%, contrasting with the national average of 4.9%. Constrained employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-paying positions can contribute to elevated rates of unemployment and underemployment. Areas where individuals contend with joblessness or insufficient wages may display heightened susceptibility to an increase in criminal activities attributed to economic insecurity. Conversely, regions characterized by robust employment rates often witness a decrease in overall Dover crime rates.
In Dover, 71% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, whereas the national average stands at 83%. The educational makeup of any city can exert a significant influence on crime rates. Typically, higher levels of educational attainment are associated with reduced crime rates, as they furnish individuals with improved employment prospects and viable alternatives to engaging in criminal activities. Conversely, communities characterized by lower educational achievement often grapple with higher crime rates, as limited opportunities may drive individuals towards criminal behavior.
The median home price in Dover is $469,303, compared to the national average of $326,622. High housing costs can lead to financial stress for residents. When individuals struggle to make ends meet due to expensive housing, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities to address their financial difficulties, such as theft or fraud. Communities with stable housing environments tend to foster stronger social bonds and community engagement. This can lead to increased vigilance and cooperation among residents, which can deter criminal behavior.
| Item | Dover | New Jersey | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 30 | 14,540 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.6 | 5.7 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | New Jersey /100K | National /100K |
| New Jersey | 4,539 | 54 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Ogdensburg, NJ | 2,235 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Mount Arlington, NJ | 5,933 | 0 | 148 | 148 |
| Stanhope, NJ | 3,418 | 83 | 111 | 195 |
| Wanaque, NJ | 12,174 | 36 | 187 | 223 |
| Hopatcong, NJ | 14,711 | 75 | 177 | 251 |
| Peapack and Gladstone, NJ | 2,646 | 34 | 224 | 258 |
| New Providence, NJ | 13,898 | 44 | 255 | 299 |
| Dover, NJ | 18,528 | 223 | 870 | 1,093 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Upper Grand Lagoon, FL | 18,531 | 161 | 858 | 1,019 |
| Canby, OR | 18,522 | 213 | 901 | 1,114 |
| Lenoir, NC | 18,535 | 258 | 3,220 | 3,478 |
| Sheridan, WY | 18,519 | 136 | 989 | 1,126 |
| Westerly, RI | 18,517 | 64 | 913 | 977 |
| Dover, NJ | 18,528 | 223 | 870 | 1,093 |