| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Oswego/100k people | Illinois/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 218 | n/a (estimate) | 607 | 1,970 | 2,324 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 7.8 | 6.3 |
| Rape | 15 | n/a | 41.7 | 48.1 | 40.0 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 5.6 | 84.7 | 66.1 |
| Assault | 15 | n/a | 41.7 | 146.7 | 268.2 |
| Violent crime | 32 | n/a (estimate) | 89 | 287 | 370 |
| Burglary | 11 | n/a | 30.6 | 208.5 | 269.8 |
| Theft | 161 | n/a | 448.1 | 1,192.7 | 1,401.9 |
| Vehicle theft | 14 | n/a | 39.0 | 281.6 | 282.7 |
| Property crime | 186 | n/a (estimate) | 518 | 1,683 | 1,954 |
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 Oswego crime rate is lower than the national average by 73.9%. Specifically, there were 32 violent crimes in Oswego, equivalent to 89 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 75.9%. Furthermore, Oswego recorded 186 property crimes, amounting to 518 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 73.5%.
Oswego enjoys a remarkably low crime rate, standing at just 607, a significant contrast to the national average of 2324. This distinction firmly establishes Oswego as one of the safest places to reside in the entire United States. This crime rate is meticulously calculated, taking into account the total occurrences of both violent and property crimes per 100,000 individuals, providing a comprehensive perspective on the area's safety and livability.
Oswego shines as one of the safest cities in the United States, thanks to its remarkably low rate of only 89 violent incidents per 100,000 residents. This impressive safety record has made Oswego an attractive choice for individuals seeking a secure and hospitable community to call home.
In the most recently reported crime year, Oswego registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.
In 1991, property crime rates in the United States soared to over 5,140 crimes per 100,000 people. In the years since, the U.S. property crime rate has continued to decline with the most recent year reporting only 1954 property crimes. In Oswego, the property crime rate was even less than the national average with a rate of 518, cementing it as one of the safest places to live with regards to property crime.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Oswego residents. Out of the respondents (13 in total), 54% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Oswego were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 46% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
To get a feel for the safety of living in Oswego, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Oswego presents a total crime rate that is 74% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Oswego experiences an average of 0.6 daily crimes, comprising 0.09 violent incidents and 0.51 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 Oswego. 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 Oswego has increased by 47.3%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 33.3%, while property crime has increased by 50%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Oswego.
The economic prosperity of a city's inhabitants exerts substantial influence on crime stats. Elevated poverty rates and income inequality can precipitate heightened criminal activity, as individuals may turn to illicit means to fulfill their fundamental requirements. While lower poverty rates could lead to lower Oswego crime rates. In Oswego, the poverty rate stands at 1.7%, diverging from the national average of 15.1%.
In cities grappling with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves needing to reside in cramped or subpar housing conditions, elevating stress levels and potentially fueling domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. Oswego has a median home price of $254,200, deviating from the national average of $184,700. Large disparities in housing costs can significantly impact the well-being of residents and the prevalence of crime within the community.
High rental costs can limit economic mobility, making it difficult for individuals to save money, invest in education, or access better job opportunities. This can perpetuate a cycle of poverty and increase the risk of involvement in criminal activities. In summary, high rental costs can create economic challenges, overcrowding, and neighborhood dynamics that may increase the likelihood of certain types of crime, particularly property crimes. In Oswego, the average rental rates are $1,513 per month, compared to the national average of $949.
| Item | Oswego | Illinois | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 58 | 30,690 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.9 | 2.6 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Illinois /100K | National /100K |
| Illinois | 32,213 | 263 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Sandwich, IL | 7,351 | 14 | 70 | 84 |
| Prestbury, IL | 1,978 | 40 | 236 | 276 |
| Winfield, IL | 9,683 | 57 | 258 | 315 |
| Elburn, IL | 5,559 | 47 | 361 | 408 |
| Yorkville, IL | 19,386 | 93 | 444 | 537 |
| Big Rock, IL | 1,271 | 88 | 516 | 604 |
| Newark, IL | 1,325 | 99 | 581 | 680 |
| Oswego, IL | 35,470 | 89 | 518 | 607 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Richmond, IN | 35,467 | 430 | 2,170 | 2,600 |
| Wildwood, MO | 35,476 | 211 | 1,011 | 1,222 |
| Inver Grove Heights, MN | 35,492 | 196 | 2,105 | 2,301 |
| Gahanna, OH | 35,442 | 239 | 2,374 | 2,613 |
| Mount Vernon, WA | 35,502 | 270 | 2,948 | 3,219 |
| Oswego, IL | 35,470 | 89 | 518 | 607 |
Here are the best places to live in Illinois
These are the 10 most affordable cities in Illinois
10 best cities to buy a new house in Illinois
See the best places to live in & around Oswego