| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Fergus Falls/100k people | Minnesota/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 366 | n/a (estimate) | 2,569 | 1,863 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 2.9 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 7.0 | 36.8 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 1 | n/a | 7.0 | 48.9 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 27 | n/a | 189.5 | 168.0 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 29 | n/a (estimate) | 204 | 257 | 359 |
| Burglary | 30 | n/a | 210.6 | 184.7 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 293 | n/a | 2,056.9 | 1,208.5 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 14 | n/a | 98.3 | 213.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 337 | n/a (estimate) | 2,366 | 1,606 | 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 Fergus Falls crime rate is higher than the national average by 21.2%. Specifically, there were 29 violent crimes in Fergus Falls, equivalent to 204 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 43.3%. Furthermore, Fergus Falls recorded 337 property crimes, amounting to 2366 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 34.4%.
In the latest reported crime year, Fergus Falls 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.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Fergus Falls residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 8 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 50% of Fergus Falls 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, 50% 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 Fergus Falls 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 Fergus Falls crime rate is 21% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 1 crimes per day - 0.08 violent crimes and 0.92 property crimes.
Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Fergus Falls. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Fergus Falls has decreased by 6.9%. Violent crimes have increased by 20.8%, while property crimes have decreased by 8.7%. 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.
Fergus Falls has a poverty rate that stands at 10.7, in contrast to the national average of 15.1. Historically, a direct correlation has been observed between poverty rates and crime stats. Higher poverty rates have led to higher crime rates, while lower poverty rates have led to a reduction in Fergus Falls crime rates. Income disparities and heightened poverty levels can serve as catalysts for elevated or reduced criminal activity, as individuals may or may not turn to illicit means to fulfill their basic needs. This could be one of many factors that may influence crime.
The level of education within a community can impact crime rates. Higher educational attainment often correlates with lower crime rates, as it provides individuals with better job opportunities and alternatives to criminal behavior. While lower educational achievement rates tend to lead to higher crime rates. In Fergus Falls, 87.2% of people have completed high school, while 83% of people have completed high school nationally.
In Fergus Falls, the average rental rates are $959 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. Rapid increases in rental costs can lead to neighborhood instability as residents are forced to move frequently in search of more affordable housing. This transience can weaken community bonds and hinder the establishment of social support networks, which can indirectly contribute to crime. While affordable rent and areas with higher income per capita, allow for long term renters and community bonds to the formed, therefore reducing crime rates on the long term.
| Item | Fergus Falls | Minnesota | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 28 | 7,759 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.1 | 1.8 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Minnesota /100K | National /100K |
| Minnesota | 1,283 | 26 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Elizabeth, MN | 110 | 327 | 2,041 | 2,368 |
| Underwood, MN | 404 | 340 | 2,128 | 2,468 |
| Rothsay, MN | 514 | 345 | 2,159 | 2,504 |
| Ashby, MN | 436 | 349 | 2,184 | 2,533 |
| Dalton, MN | 324 | 358 | 2,237 | 2,595 |
| Erhard, MN | 169 | 381 | 2,379 | 2,759 |
| Foxhome, MN | 113 | 395 | 2,470 | 2,865 |
| Fergus Falls, MN | 14,278 | 204 | 2,366 | 2,569 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Hazel Crest, IL | 14,284 | 540 | 2,693 | 3,233 |
| Riverhead, NY | 14,287 | 325 | 1,472 | 1,797 |
| Royal Kunia, HI | 14,269 | 165 | 1,476 | 1,641 |
| Maumee, OH | 14,267 | 162 | 2,434 | 2,596 |
| Hidalgo, TX | 14,290 | 134 | 1,455 | 1,590 |
| Fergus Falls, MN | 14,278 | 204 | 2,366 | 2,569 |