| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Elkins/100k people | West Virginia/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 59 | n/a (estimate) | 881 | 1,411 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 48.0 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 1 | n/a | 14.9 | 9.7 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 31 | n/a | 462.7 | 185.8 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 32 | n/a (estimate) | 478 | 249 | 359 |
| Burglary | 5 | n/a | 74.6 | 178.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 20 | n/a | 298.5 | 905.1 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 2 | n/a | 29.9 | 78.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 27 | n/a (estimate) | 403 | 1,162 | 1,760 |
Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Elkins is 58.5% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Elkins, there were 32 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 478 per 100,000 individuals, 33% higher than the national average. Additionally, there were 27 property crimes, amounting to 403 per 100,000 residents, 77.1% lower than the U.S. average.
Elkins 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.
Property crime rates per 100,000 individuals have exhibited a consistent decrease of about 50% since 1990, with a minor upturn observed in recent years. According to the latest crime data, Elkins maintains a property crime rate of 403 incidents per 100,000 people, significantly below the national average of 1760. This serves as a strong indication of the status of Elkins as a secure and desirable place to reside, emphasizing its commitment to safety and well-being within the community.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Elkins residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 16 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 25% of Elkins 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, 75% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Elkins 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 Elkins crime rate is 58% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.16 crimes per day - 0.09 violent crimes and 0.07 property crimes.
In Elkins, the poverty rate currently stands at 19.8%, which contrasts with the national average of 15.1%. It's essential to recognize that the economic status of a city's inhabitants could be a pivotal factor influencing crime stats. Communities grappling with high poverty rates and income inequality are often susceptible to elevated crime levels, as some individuals may turn to unlawful activities to fulfill their essential needs. While lower poverty rates could lead to a reduction in Elkins crime rates.
Elkins has a population density of 2003.5 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 90.6 people per square mile. High population density cities are often large urban hubs teeming with diverse economic opportunities. Within these environments, income disparities can become pronounced, leading to higher poverty levels. This economic divide may contribute to an uptick in property crimes and, occasionally, violent crimes. In contrast, areas characterized by low population density typically exhibit lower Elkins crime rates.
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 Elkins stands at $215,436, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
| Item | Elkins | West Virginia | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 13 | 1,642 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.8 | 3.0 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | West Virginia /100K | National /100K |
| West Virginia | 4,917 | 266 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Parsons, WV | 1,583 | 108 | 502 | 609 |
| Belington, WV | 1,982 | 110 | 515 | 626 |
| Montrose, WV | 297 | 188 | 875 | 1,063 |
| Beverly, WV | 728 | 235 | 1,095 | 1,329 |
| Hendricks, WV | 409 | 267 | 1,246 | 1,513 |
| Womelsdorf (Coalton), WV | 199 | 296 | 1,380 | 1,676 |
| Hambleton, WV | 236 | 298 | 1,390 | 1,688 |
| Elkins, WV | 7,267 | 478 | 403 | 881 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Trumann, AR | 7,269 | 1,181 | 2,538 | 3,719 |
| Cottage Grove, WI | 7,270 | 116 | 452 | 567 |
| St. Augustine Beach, FL | 7,271 | 87 | 462 | 549 |
| Nibley, UT | 7,263 | 171 | 1,050 | 1,221 |
| Pike Creek, DE | 7,263 | 117 | 568 | 685 |
| Elkins, WV | 7,267 | 478 | 403 | 881 |
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