| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Emporia/100k people | Kansas/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 644 | n/a (estimate) | 2,671 | 2,395 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 3.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 16 | n/a | 66.4 | 44.1 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 4 | n/a | 16.6 | 30.9 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 69 | n/a | 286.2 | 359.9 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 89 | n/a (estimate) | 369 | 439 | 359 |
| Burglary | 104 | n/a | 431.4 | 261.6 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 432 | n/a | 1,791.9 | 1,458.5 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 19 | n/a | 78.8 | 236.3 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 555 | n/a (estimate) | 2,302 | 1,956 | 1,760 |

Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Emporia is 26.1% higher than the national average. Specifically, there were 89 violent crimes reported in Emporia, equivalent to 369 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average by 2.8%. Additionally, Emporia recorded 555 property crimes, amounting to 2302 per 100,000 people, higher than the national average by 30.8%.
For violent crimes per 100,000 people, Emporia has a rate of violent crime that is very close to the national average. There were a total of 369 violent crimes, while the national average reported 359. This is an indication that the level of crime is essentially on par with all other cities.
During the most recently reported crime year, Emporia 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.
AreaVibes surveyed 14 local residents in Emporia to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 36% of people answered that there was very little crime in Emporia and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 64% of people responded that there was far too much crime and they would be hesitant to walk the streets alone at night. Keep in mind that the opinions of residents may vary depending on which area they live in.
To get a feel for the safety of living in Emporia, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Emporia presents a total crime rate that is 26% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Emporia experiences an average of 1.76 daily crimes, comprising 0.24 violent incidents and 1.52 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.
Year-over-year crime rates in Emporia has increased by 16.5% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Emporia 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 147.2%, while property crime has increased by 7.4%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Emporia.
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 Emporia 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. Emporia has an unemployment rate of 3.4%, compared to a national average of 4.9%.
In areas where housing affordability is an issue, crime can become a significant concern. Some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions, which can increase stress and potentially contribute to domestic disputes and related crimes. The median home price in Emporia is $177,520, compared to a national average of $326,622.
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 Emporia are $1,000, compared to a national average of $1,444 per month.
| Item | Emporia | Kansas | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | n/a | 5,262 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | n/a | 2.5 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Kansas /100K | National /100K |
| Kansas | 9,632 | 349 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Olpe, KS | 526 | 464 | 2,067 | 2,531 |
| Americus, KS | 953 | 543 | 2,421 | 2,965 |
| Hartford, KS | 347 | 614 | 2,735 | 3,348 |
| Reading, KS | 171 | 624 | 2,782 | 3,406 |
| Neosho Rapids, KS | 378 | 639 | 2,849 | 3,488 |
| Emporia, KS | 25,435 | 369 | 2,302 | 2,671 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Riverbank, CA | 25,441 | 164 | 1,525 | 1,689 |
| Hazleton, PA | 25,442 | 233 | 492 | 725 |
| Hastings, NE | 25,424 | 318 | 2,007 | 2,325 |
| Conway, SC | 25,463 | 445 | 1,975 | 2,419 |
| Key West, FL | 25,464 | 352 | 2,259 | 2,612 |
| Emporia, KS | 25,435 | 369 | 2,302 | 2,671 |