| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Hays/100k people | Kansas/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 356 | n/a (estimate) | 1,694 | 2,395 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 3.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 12 | n/a | 57.1 | 44.1 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 9.5 | 30.9 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 35 | n/a | 166.6 | 359.9 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 49 | n/a (estimate) | 233 | 439 | 359 |
| Burglary | 36 | n/a | 171.3 | 261.6 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 256 | n/a | 1,218.4 | 1,458.5 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 15 | n/a | 71.4 | 236.3 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 307 | n/a (estimate) | 1,461 | 1,956 | 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 Hays crime rate is lower than the national average by 20.1%. Specifically, there were 49 violent crimes in Hays, equivalent to 233 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 35.1%. Furthermore, Hays recorded 307 property crimes, amounting to 1461 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 17%.
In the most recently reported crime year, Hays registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Hays residents. Out of the respondents (11 in total), 55% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Hays were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 45% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Hays 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 Hays crime rate is 20% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.98 crimes per day - 0.13 violent crimes and 0.84 property crimes.
Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Hays. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Hays has decreased by 26.1%. Violent crimes have decreased by 44.3%, while property crimes have decreased by 22.1%. 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.
The economic well-being of a city's residents plays a significant role in crime rates. High poverty rates and income inequality can lead to increased crime stats as individuals may resort to illegal activities to meet their basic needs. While lower rates could lead to a lower Hays crime rate. The poverty level in Hays is 15.3%, while the national average is 15.1%.
Hays has a population density of 2549.9 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 Hays crime rates.
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 Hays is $322,027, compared to a national average of $326,622.
| Item | Hays | Kansas | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 51 | 5,262 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.4 | 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 |
| Victoria, KS | 1,115 | 0 | 181 | 181 |
| Ellis, KS | 2,290 | 179 | 800 | 979 |
| Catharine, KS | 126 | 422 | 1,881 | 2,303 |
| Schoenchen, KS | 202 | 459 | 2,043 | 2,502 |
| Hays, KS | 21,398 | 233 | 1,461 | 1,694 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Gardner, MA | 21,410 | 329 | 620 | 949 |
| Green Valley, AZ | 21,416 | 300 | 1,272 | 1,572 |
| Stephenville, TX | 21,421 | 180 | 1,161 | 1,340 |
| Marquette, MI | 21,369 | 188 | 508 | 697 |
| New Hope, MN | 21,432 | 172 | 1,959 | 2,131 |
| Hays, KS | 21,398 | 233 | 1,461 | 1,694 |
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