| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Norwood/100k people | Massachusetts/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 279 | n/a (estimate) | 880 | 1,427 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 1.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 3.2 | 27.6 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 3 | n/a | 9.5 | 36.0 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 49 | n/a | 154.6 | 249.3 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 53 | n/a (estimate) | 167 | 315 | 359 |
| Burglary | 17 | n/a | 53.6 | 130.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 173 | n/a | 545.7 | 876.3 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 36 | n/a | 113.6 | 105.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 226 | n/a (estimate) | 713 | 1,112 | 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 Norwood crime rate is lower than the national average by 58.5%. Specifically, there were 53 violent crimes in Norwood, equivalent to 167 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 53.5%. Furthermore, Norwood recorded 226 property crimes, amounting to 713 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 59.5%.
During the most recently reported crime year, Norwood 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.
What do the local residents think about crime in Norwood? Well, based on a recent survey of 16 people (conducted by AreaVibes), 75% of Norwood residents said that there was virtually no crime and that they felt safe walking at night. Another 25% of respondents said that there was too much crime in the area and they did not feel safe walking alone at night.
Determining whether Norwood 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, Norwood has an overall crime rate that is 58% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.76 daily occurrences, comprising 0.15 violent crimes and 0.62 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Norwood as a potential place to establish residency.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Norwood. 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 Norwood has decreased by 4.1%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 29.3%, while property crime has decreased by 9.6%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Norwood.
Norwood has a poverty rate that stands at 8.1, in contrast to the national average of 15.1. Historically, a direct correlation has been observed between poverty rates and crime stats. Higher poverty rates have led to higher crime rates, while lower poverty rates have led to a reduction in Norwood crime rates. Income disparities and heightened poverty levels can serve as catalysts for elevated or reduced criminal activity, as individuals may or may not turn to illicit means to fulfill their basic needs. This could be one of many factors that may influence crime.
Limited employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-wage jobs can result in higher rates of unemployment and underemployment. Regions where individuals grapple with joblessness or meager wages may exhibit greater vulnerability to an uptick in crime due to financial instability. While areas that have strong employment rates, often will see a reduction in overall crime. Norwood, for instance, reports an unemployment rate of 2.2%, which differs from the national average of 4.9%.
Norwood has an average rental rate of $2,501 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.
| Item | Norwood | Massachusetts | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 68 | 11,659 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.3 | 2.2 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Massachusetts /100K | National /100K |
| Massachusetts | 4,551 | 72 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Bridgewater, MA | 8,837 | 75 | 200 | 275 |
| Sharon, MA | 6,394 | 37 | 240 | 277 |
| Medfield, MA | 6,867 | 149 | 231 | 380 |
| Franklin Town, MA | 34,557 | 95 | 288 | 383 |
| Cochituate, MA | 6,978 | 102 | 362 | 464 |
| Wellesley, MA | 29,744 | 47 | 485 | 532 |
| Milton, MA | 28,525 | 52 | 562 | 614 |
| Norwood, MA | 30,301 | 167 | 713 | 880 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Westfield, NJ | 30,292 | 16 | 556 | 572 |
| Stockbridge, GA | 30,260 | 385 | 2,195 | 2,580 |
| Central, LA | 30,353 | 261 | 1,151 | 1,412 |
| Kent, OH | 30,369 | 127 | 1,272 | 1,399 |
| Desert Hot Springs, CA | 30,374 | 492 | 1,200 | 1,692 |
| Norwood, MA | 30,301 | 167 | 713 | 880 |