| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Oskaloosa/100k people | Iowa/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 119 | n/a (estimate) | 1,042 | 1,540 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 2.1 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 8.8 | 35.2 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 18.7 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 15 | n/a | 131.4 | 187.2 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 16 | n/a (estimate) | 140 | 243 | 359 |
| Burglary | 25 | n/a | 218.9 | 199.1 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 73 | n/a | 639.3 | 962.6 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 5 | n/a | 43.8 | 135.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 103 | n/a (estimate) | 902 | 1,297 | 1,760 |

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Oskaloosa is 50.8% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Oskaloosa, there were 16 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 140 per 100,000 individuals, 61% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 103 property crimes, amounting to 902 per 100,000 residents, 48.8% lower than the U.S. average.
In a remarkable testament to the city's commitment to safety, Oskaloosa 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 has conducted polls asking local residents if they feel safe living in Oskaloosa. Based on the results of the surveys (6 responses), 100% of people felt that there was very little crime in Oskaloosa and felt safe walking alone at night. While 0% of people felt that it was not a safe place to live and did not feel safe walking alone at night.
To get a feel for the safety of living in Oskaloosa, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Oskaloosa presents a total crime rate that is 51% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Oskaloosa experiences an average of 0.33 daily crimes, comprising 0.04 violent incidents and 0.28 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Oskaloosa. 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 Oskaloosa has decreased by 40.2%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 42.9%, while property crime has decreased by 39.8%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Oskaloosa.
Oskaloosa has a poverty rate that stands at 19.5, 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 Oskaloosa 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.
Oskaloosa has a population density of 1507.2 people per square mile, while with the national average is 90.6 people per square mile. Cities characterized by high population density are frequently larger urban centers offering diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality may be accentuated, resulting in the coexistence of poverty and affluence. Such economic disparities can contribute to elevated property crimes and on occasion, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density generally record lower Oskaloosa 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 Oskaloosa is $170,766, compared to a national average of $326,622.
| Item | Oskaloosa | Iowa | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 19 | 3,827 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.6 | 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 |
| New Sharon, IA | 1,216 | 0 | 80 | 80 |
| Eddyville, IA | 1,169 | 111 | 592 | 703 |
| Pella, IA | 10,526 | 110 | 951 | 1,060 |
| Keomah Village, IA | 119 | 201 | 1,073 | 1,275 |
| Leighton, IA | 200 | 273 | 1,458 | 1,731 |
| Gibson, IA | 31 | 291 | 1,554 | 1,845 |
| Lovilia, IA | 640 | 303 | 1,616 | 1,919 |
| Oskaloosa, IA | 12,090 | 140 | 902 | 1,042 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Portales, NM | 12,084 | 782 | 2,871 | 3,653 |
| Bogalusa, LA | 12,080 | 1,131 | 4,214 | 5,345 |
| Jerome, ID | 12,101 | 112 | 694 | 806 |
| North Wantagh, NY | 12,102 | 151 | 682 | 832 |
| Spearfish, SD | 12,076 | 264 | 1,823 | 2,087 |
| Oskaloosa, IA | 12,090 | 140 | 902 | 1,042 |