| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Festus/100k people | Missouri/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 166 | n/a (estimate) | 1,212 | 2,403 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 7.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 3 | n/a | 21.9 | 45.2 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 51.5 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 22 | n/a | 160.7 | 357.5 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 25 | n/a (estimate) | 183 | 462 | 359 |
| Burglary | 9 | n/a | 65.7 | 236.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 115 | n/a | 839.8 | 1,306.5 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 17 | n/a | 124.2 | 398.4 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 141 | n/a (estimate) | 1,030 | 1,941 | 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 Festus is 42.8% lower than the national average. Specifically, there were 25 violent crimes reported in Festus, equivalent to 183 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 49.2%. Additionally, Festus recorded 141 property crimes, amounting to 1030 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average by 41.5%.
Festus 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.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Festus residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 5 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 80% of Festus 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, 20% 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 Festus 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 Festus crime rate is 43% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.45 crimes per day - 0.07 violent crimes and 0.39 property crimes.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Festus. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Festus has decreased by 33.1%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 49%, while property crime has decreased by 29.2%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Festus.
In Festus, 79.9% of residents have graduated from high school, whereas the national average stands at 83%. The educational makeup of a community 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.
In Festus, the ratio of police officers and civilians stands at 3 per 1,000 residents, contrasting with the national average of 3.25. This discrepancy highlights the potential impact of law enforcement and community policing on crime rates. The strength of their collaboration can serve as a deterrent to criminal behavior, fostering a safer environment. Effective law enforcement leans heavily on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and cooperation between police and residents. It's essential to recognize that the effectiveness of these efforts isn't solely tied to the quantity of officers but also hinges on the quality of their engagement with the community.
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 Festus stands at $265,864, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
| Item | Festus | Missouri | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 35 | 12,115 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 3.0 | 3.7 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Missouri /100K | National /100K |
| Missouri | 19,657 | 344 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Valmeyer, IL | 1,236 | 0 | 249 | 249 |
| LaBarque Creek, MO | 1,200 | 65 | 272 | 337 |
| Cedar Hill, MO | 1,686 | 144 | 603 | 747 |
| Horine, MO | 1,133 | 224 | 942 | 1,166 |
| Hillsboro, MO | 3,366 | 200 | 1,112 | 1,312 |
| Pevely, MO | 6,102 | 231 | 1,104 | 1,335 |
| Imperial, MO | 5,109 | 258 | 1,083 | 1,340 |
| Festus, MO | 12,514 | 183 | 1,030 | 1,212 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Kelso, WA | 12,512 | 230 | 1,933 | 2,163 |
| Escanaba, MI | 12,509 | 357 | 1,997 | 2,354 |
| Holiday City-Berkeley, NJ | 12,508 | 278 | 1,819 | 2,097 |
| Orange City, FL | 12,521 | 261 | 1,388 | 1,649 |
| Overlea, MD | 12,505 | 491 | 2,396 | 2,886 |
| Festus, MO | 12,514 | 183 | 1,030 | 1,212 |