| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Independence/100k people | Iowa/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 51 | n/a (estimate) | 820 | 1,540 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 2.1 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 3 | n/a | 48.2 | 35.2 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 1 | n/a | 16.1 | 18.7 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 6 | n/a | 96.4 | 187.2 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 10 | n/a (estimate) | 161 | 243 | 359 |
| Burglary | 2 | n/a | 32.1 | 199.1 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 36 | n/a | 578.7 | 962.6 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 3 | n/a | 48.2 | 135.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 41 | n/a (estimate) | 659 | 1,297 | 1,760 |
When we analyze the latest crime report, the Independence crime rate is 61.3% lower than the national average. These incidents are classified into two primary categories: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes include assault, robbery, rape and murder. Whereas property crimes encompass theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In the case of Independence, there were 10 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 161 per 100,000 individuals, 55.2% lower than the national average. Additionally, Independence recorded 41 property crimes, amounting to 659 per 100,000 residents, 62.6% lower than the U.S. average.
During the most recently reported crime year, Independence 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.
Property crime rates per 100,000 individuals have exhibited a consistent decrease of about 50% since 1990, with a minor upturn observed in recent years. According to the latest crime data, Independence maintains a property crime rate of 659 incidents per 100,000 people, significantly below the national average of 1760. This serves as a strong indication of the status of Independence as a secure and desirable place to reside, emphasizing its commitment to safety and well-being within the community.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Independence 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 Independence crime rate is 61% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.14 crimes per day - 0.03 violent crimes and 0.11 property crimes.
Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Independence. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Independence has decreased by 27.1%. Violent crimes have decreased by 44.4%, while property crimes have decreased by 21.2%. 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.
Regions characterized by high population density frequently encompass expansive urban hubs that offer diverse economic prospects. In such areas, income inequality can be exacerbated, creating pockets of poverty alongside affluence. Economic disparities within these regions may correlate with elevated property crimes and, in certain instances, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density numbers generally exhibit reduced Independence crime rates. Independence registers a population density of 1034.7 people per square mile, in contrast to the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.
In Independence, 86% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, whereas the national average stands at 83%. The educational makeup of any city 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.
The median home price in Independence is $229,057, compared to the national average of $326,622. High housing costs can lead to financial stress for residents. When individuals struggle to make ends meet due to expensive housing, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities to address their financial difficulties, such as theft or fraud. Communities with stable housing environments tend to foster stronger social bonds and community engagement. This can lead to increased vigilance and cooperation among residents, which can deter criminal behavior.
| Item | Independence | Iowa | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 12 | 3,827 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.0 | 1.8 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Iowa /100K | National /100K |
| Iowa | 6,040 | 205 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Jesup, IA | 2,784 | 88 | 470 | 558 |
| Winthrop, IA | 1,048 | 93 | 498 | 591 |
| La Porte City, IA | 2,623 | 102 | 543 | 645 |
| Oelwein, IA | 6,065 | 209 | 556 | 765 |
| Fairbank, IA | 1,460 | 88 | 881 | 969 |
| Dunkerton, IA | 1,018 | 214 | 1,142 | 1,356 |
| Walker, IA | 914 | 232 | 1,240 | 1,472 |
| Independence, IA | 6,286 | 161 | 659 | 820 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Violet, LA | 6,286 | 485 | 2,140 | 2,625 |
| Hockinson, WA | 6,285 | 106 | 802 | 908 |
| Sheridan, OR | 6,288 | 308 | 2,219 | 2,527 |
| Munford, TN | 6,289 | 449 | 623 | 1,072 |
| South Williamsport, PA | 6,281 | 41 | 643 | 685 |
| Independence, IA | 6,286 | 161 | 659 | 820 |
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