| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Greenbelt/100k people | Maryland/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 1,216 | n/a (estimate) | 5,026 | 2,470 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 7.2 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 10 | n/a | 41.3 | 33.0 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 79 | n/a | 326.5 | 123.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 68 | n/a | 281.1 | 257.0 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 157 | n/a (estimate) | 649 | 420 | 359 |
| Burglary | 36 | n/a | 148.8 | 190.0 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 767 | n/a | 3,170.3 | 1,446.8 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 256 | n/a | 1,058.2 | 412.8 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 1,059 | n/a (estimate) | 4,377 | 2,050 | 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 Greenbelt is 137.2% higher than the national average. Specifically, there were 157 violent crimes reported in Greenbelt, equivalent to 649 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average by 80.7%. Additionally, Greenbelt recorded 1059 property crimes, amounting to 4377 per 100,000 people, higher than the national average by 148.7%.
With a total of 5026 crimes per 100,000 people, the Greenbelt crime rates stand at 137.18 higher than the national average. Consequently, the area grapples with one of the nation's highest total crime rates. Addressing this challenge is crucial for enhancing the safety and livability in Greenbelt, making it a priority to reduce crime through community engagement, effective law enforcement, and collaborative efforts to secure a better future for residents and prospective residents.
Greenbelt 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.
Greenbelt faces some of the nation's most elevated property crime rates, recording 4377 incidents per 100,000 people. This places the city among the worst 10% of all U.S. cities that reported crime. Regrettably, the likelihood of falling victim to property crime in Greenbelt stands at 1 in 23, significantly surpassing the national average. These statistics underscore the imperative need for bolstered community safety measures to mitigate property crimes and enhance the well-being of its residents.
Vehicle thefts across all of America are on the rise and Greenbelt has one of the highest vehicle theft rates in the country. In the most recent crime report, Greenbelt reported 256 vehicle thefts, which equates to 1058 stolen vehicles per 100,000 people. This falls in the bottom 10% of all cities, meaning that 90% of cities have better vehicle theft rates. The chance of having your vehicle stolen in Greenbelt is 1 in 95.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Greenbelt residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 32 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 31% of Greenbelt 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, 69% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
To get a feel for the safety of living in Greenbelt, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Greenbelt presents a total crime rate that is 137% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Greenbelt experiences an average of 3.33 daily crimes, comprising 0.43 violent incidents and 2.9 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Greenbelt. 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 Greenbelt has increased by 45.5%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 42.7%, while property crime has increased by 45.9%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Greenbelt.
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 Greenbelt 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. Greenbelt has an unemployment rate of 6.1%, 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 Greenbelt is $404,193, 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 Greenbelt are $2,520, compared to a national average of $1,444 per month.

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| Item | Greenbelt | Maryland | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 68 | 5,343 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.9 | 3.3 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Maryland /100K | National /100K |
| Maryland | 7,370 | 135 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Martin's Additions, MD | 1,119 | 59 | 288 | 347 |
| Highland, MD | 1,126 | 59 | 288 | 347 |
| Derwood, MD | 1,693 | 59 | 288 | 347 |
| Chevy Chase View, MD | 1,184 | 59 | 288 | 347 |
| Kensington, MD | 2,290 | 66 | 322 | 387 |
| Cabin John, MD | 2,355 | 66 | 322 | 387 |
| Chevy Chase town, MD | 3,037 | 66 | 322 | 387 |
| Greenbelt, MD | 23,942 | 649 | 4,377 | 5,026 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Cottage Lake, WA | 23,962 | 137 | 1,036 | 1,173 |
| Avon, OH | 23,911 | 74 | 896 | 970 |
| Chalmette, LA | 23,911 | 556 | 2,453 | 3,008 |
| Westchase, FL | 23,975 | 112 | 596 | 709 |
| Copiague, NY | 23,901 | 367 | 1,661 | 2,028 |
| Greenbelt, MD | 23,942 | 649 | 4,377 | 5,026 |