| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Norfolk/100k people | Nebraska/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 353 | n/a (estimate) | 1,346 | 1,847 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 2.1 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 15 | n/a | 57.2 | 43.5 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 3 | n/a | 11.4 | 20.5 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 35 | n/a | 133.4 | 154.5 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 53 | n/a (estimate) | 202 | 221 | 359 |
| Burglary | 18 | n/a | 68.6 | 155.1 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 262 | n/a | 998.7 | 1,218.9 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 20 | n/a | 76.2 | 252.6 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 300 | n/a (estimate) | 1,144 | 1,627 | 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 Norfolk crime rate is lower than the national average by 36.5%. Specifically, there were 53 violent crimes in Norfolk, equivalent to 202 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 43.7%. Furthermore, Norfolk recorded 300 property crimes, amounting to 1144 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 35%.
In a remarkable testament to the city's commitment to safety, Norfolk reported a murder rate of 0. This could indicate that it is a very safe place to live, but also serves as an inspiration to other urban areas striving for safer communities. Examining the full crime report will provide a complete overview of all crimes - violent and property.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Norfolk residents. Out of the respondents (134 in total), 45% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Norfolk were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 55% 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk crime rate is 37% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.97 crimes per day - 0.15 violent crimes and 0.82 property crimes.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Norfolk. 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 Norfolk has increased by 52.2%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 112%, while property crime has increased by 44.9%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Norfolk.
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 Norfolk crime rate. The poverty level in Norfolk is 16%, while the national average is 15.1%.
Law enforcement and community policing efforts can play a pivotal role in shaping crime rates. Establishing a robust and cooperative partnership between the police and the community can act as a deterrent to criminal behavior and enhance overall safety. In Norfolk, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 2.21 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents compared to 3.25 nationally. Effective law enforcement often hinges on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the community. It's not solely about the quantity of officers but also the quality of their engagement with the community.
In Norfolk, the average rental rates are $1,061 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. Rapid increases in rental costs can lead to neighborhood instability as residents are forced to move frequently in search of more affordable housing. This transience can weaken community bonds and hinder the establishment of social support networks, which can indirectly contribute to crime. While affordable rent and areas with higher income per capita, allow for long term renters and community bonds to the formed, therefore reducing crime rates on the long term.
| Item | Norfolk | Nebraska | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 54 | 2,523 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.2 | 2.1 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Nebraska /100K | National /100K |
| Nebraska | 6,070 | 345 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Pierce, NE | 2,019 | 0 | 276 | 276 |
| Battle Creek, NE | 1,562 | 78 | 573 | 651 |
| Woodland Park, NE | 1,456 | 81 | 596 | 677 |
| Stanton, NE | 1,914 | 89 | 661 | 750 |
| Madison, NE | 2,325 | 115 | 848 | 962 |
| Hadar, NE | 295 | 185 | 1,367 | 1,551 |
| Hoskins, NE | 305 | 255 | 1,886 | 2,141 |
| Norfolk, NE | 25,122 | 202 | 1,144 | 1,346 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Wilsonville, OR | 25,121 | 139 | 1,003 | 1,142 |
| Herndon, VA | 25,119 | 239 | 1,796 | 2,035 |
| Loma Linda, CA | 25,144 | 341 | 1,537 | 1,878 |
| Norton Shores, MI | 25,151 | 192 | 1,884 | 2,076 |
| Palm River-Clair Mel, FL | 25,085 | 323 | 1,718 | 2,041 |
| Norfolk, NE | 25,122 | 202 | 1,144 | 1,346 |
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