| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Lake Oswego/100k people | Oregon/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 462 | n/a (estimate) | 1,166 | 2,719 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 1 | n/a | 2.5 | 3.7 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 11 | n/a | 27.8 | 41.2 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 3 | n/a | 7.6 | 57.0 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 11 | n/a | 27.8 | 229.1 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 26 | n/a (estimate) | 66 | 331 | 359 |
| Burglary | 80 | n/a | 201.9 | 306.5 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 313 | n/a | 789.9 | 1,789.5 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 43 | n/a | 108.5 | 292.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 436 | n/a (estimate) | 1,100 | 2,388 | 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 Lake Oswego crime rate is lower than the national average by 45%. Specifically, there were 26 violent crimes in Lake Oswego, equivalent to 66 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 81.7%. Furthermore, Lake Oswego recorded 436 property crimes, amounting to 1100 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 37.5%.
Lake Oswego distinguishes itself with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the U.S., reporting a mere 66 violent crimes per 100,000 people. This achievement firmly establishes Lake Oswego among the safest cities in the nation, rendering it an alluring choice for those seeking a new place to call home.
AreaVibes has conducted polls asking local residents if they feel safe living in Lake Oswego. Based on the results of the surveys (12 responses), 67% of people felt that there was very little crime in Lake Oswego and felt safe walking alone at night. While 33% of people felt that it was not a safe place to live and did not feel safe walking alone at night.
Determining whether Lake Oswego is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Lake Oswego has an overall crime rate that is 45% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 1.27 daily occurrences, comprising 0.07 violent crimes and 1.19 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Lake Oswego as a potential place to establish residency.
In the most recent crime report, year-over-year crime rates in Lake Oswego has decreased by 31%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Lake Oswego, aiding residents in assessing whether it is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. These crime rates are categorized into two primary groups: violent and property crimes. Year-over-year, violent crime has decreased by 27.8%, while property crime has decreased by 31.2%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about whether or not Lake Oswego is a safe place to live.
Lake Oswego has a population density of 3754.4 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 Lake Oswego 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 Lake Oswego is $1,173,658, 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 Lake Oswego are $2,657, compared to a national average of $1,444 per month.
| Item | Lake Oswego | Oregon | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 69 | 5,156 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.8 | 2.2 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Oregon /100K | National /100K |
| Oregon | 883 | 24 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Maywood Park, OR | 1,256 | 46 | 335 | 382 |
| Durham, OR | 1,804 | 46 | 335 | 382 |
| Stafford, OR | 2,000 | 46 | 335 | 382 |
| Mulino, OR | 2,244 | 63 | 454 | 517 |
| Beavercreek, OR | 4,202 | 86 | 620 | 706 |
| Camas, WA | 24,814 | 47 | 734 | 781 |
| King City, OR | 4,445 | 41 | 755 | 796 |
| Lake Oswego, OR | 40,335 | 66 | 1,100 | 1,166 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| South Valley, NM | 40,361 | 832 | 3,193 | 4,026 |
| Marumsco, VA | 40,366 | 277 | 1,992 | 2,269 |
| Lancaster, TX | 40,385 | 410 | 3,127 | 3,537 |
| Milton, GA | 40,389 | 94 | 449 | 543 |
| Duncanville, TX | 40,397 | 308 | 2,278 | 2,586 |
| Lake Oswego, OR | 40,335 | 66 | 1,100 | 1,166 |