| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Lenoir/100k people | North Carolina/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 633 | n/a (estimate) | 3,478 | 2,344 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 7.5 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 9 | n/a | 49.4 | 28.0 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 9 | n/a | 49.4 | 50.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 29 | n/a | 159.3 | 290.1 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 47 | n/a (estimate) | 258 | 376 | 359 |
| Burglary | 166 | n/a | 912.0 | 323.9 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 380 | n/a | 2,087.8 | 1,390.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 40 | n/a | 219.8 | 254.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 586 | n/a (estimate) | 3,220 | 1,968 | 1,760 |
The Lenoir crime rates are 64.1% higher than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 47 violent crimes in Lenoir (258 per 100,000 people), which is 28.1% lower than the national average and there were a total of 586 property crimes (3220 per 100,000 residents) which is 82.9% higher than average.
In the latest reported crime year, Lenoir recorded zero homicides. This statistic potentially positions the city as a paragon of security, radiating a profound sense of safety for its residents. A low number of severe violent crimes instills a deep feeling of well-being among its community but also establishes a lofty benchmark for other locales aspiring to foster equally secure environments.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Lenoir residents. Out of the respondents (35 in total), 43% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Lenoir were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 57% 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 Lenoir 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 Lenoir crime rate is 64% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 1.73 crimes per day - 0.13 violent crimes and 1.61 property crimes.
Year-over-year crime rates in Lenoir has decreased by 15.4% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Lenoir is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. Crime rates are categorized by violent and property crime. Year-over-year violent crime has decreased by 21.7%, while property crime has decreased by 14.8%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Lenoir.
Lenoir has a population density of 897.2 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 Lenoir crime rates.
In Lenoir, the cost of living is 12.07% lower than the national average. A substantial cost of living can burden residents, particularly those with constrained financial means. When individuals contend with steep housing expenses, grocery bills, utility costs, healthcare and essential needs that strain their budgets, they may turn to criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities characterized by a more affordable cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, which could potentially lead to decreased crime rates.
The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Lenoir, there are 3.5 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage with the community.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Item | Lenoir | North Carolina | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 64 | 14,511 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 3.5 | 4.8 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | North Carolina /100K | National /100K |
| North Carolina | 26,293 | 320 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Drexel, NC | 1,794 | 0 | 57 | 57 |
| Northlakes, NC | 1,331 | 67 | 348 | 415 |
| Bethlehem, NC | 4,098 | 80 | 420 | 500 |
| Hildebran, NC | 1,687 | 137 | 717 | 854 |
| Rutherford College, NC | 1,129 | 140 | 731 | 871 |
| Glen Alpine, NC | 1,996 | 143 | 747 | 890 |
| Salem, NC | 1,536 | 147 | 768 | 914 |
| Lenoir, NC | 18,535 | 258 | 3,220 | 3,478 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Upper Grand Lagoon, FL | 18,531 | 161 | 858 | 1,019 |
| Beltsville, MD | 18,541 | 430 | 2,099 | 2,529 |
| Dover, NJ | 18,528 | 223 | 870 | 1,093 |
| Canby, OR | 18,522 | 213 | 901 | 1,114 |
| Sheridan, WY | 18,519 | 136 | 989 | 1,126 |
| Lenoir, NC | 18,535 | 258 | 3,220 | 3,478 |
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