| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Salem/100k people | Massachusetts/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 784 | n/a (estimate) | 1,706 | 1,427 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 1.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 6 | n/a | 13.1 | 27.6 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 16 | n/a | 34.8 | 36.0 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 48 | n/a | 104.4 | 249.3 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 70 | n/a (estimate) | 152 | 315 | 359 |
| Burglary | 49 | n/a | 106.6 | 130.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 619 | n/a | 1,347.0 | 876.3 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 46 | n/a | 100.1 | 105.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 714 | n/a (estimate) | 1,554 | 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 Salem crime rate is lower than the national average by 19.5%. Specifically, there were 70 violent crimes in Salem, equivalent to 152 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 57.6%. Furthermore, Salem recorded 714 property crimes, amounting to 1554 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 11.7%.
In a remarkable testament to the city's commitment to safety, Salem 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.
Salem has a property crime rate that closely mirrors the national average. There were a total of 1554 property crimes in Salem, while the national average was 1760 per 100,000 people. This results in the area being no safer or more dangerous than the average city.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Salem residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 48 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 63% of Salem residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 38% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
To get a feel for the safety of living in Salem, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Salem presents a total crime rate that is 20% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Salem experiences an average of 2.15 daily crimes, comprising 0.19 violent incidents and 1.96 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.
Year-over-year crime rates in Salem has increased by 13.6% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Salem 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 30%, while property crime has increased by 21%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Salem.
Salem has a poverty rate that stands at 15.9, 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 Salem 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.
Salem has a population density of 5412 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 Salem crime rates.
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 Salem, the average rental rates are $1,984 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444.
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 | Salem | Massachusetts | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 97 | 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 |
| Boxford, MA | 3,040 | 0 | 145 | 145 |
| Rockport, MA | 5,358 | 42 | 126 | 169 |
| Topsfield, MA | 3,158 | 0 | 255 | 255 |
| Rowley, MA | 1,844 | 58 | 204 | 262 |
| Winchester, MA | 23,430 | 17 | 383 | 400 |
| Ipswich, MA | 4,988 | 134 | 274 | 408 |
| Arlington, MA | 46,742 | 55 | 434 | 490 |
| Salem, MA | 44,881 | 152 | 1,554 | 1,706 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Altoona, PA | 44,840 | 335 | 1,850 | 2,185 |
| Sierra Vista, AZ | 44,960 | 218 | 1,664 | 1,881 |
| Riverton, UT | 44,974 | 72 | 897 | 968 |
| Moorhead, MN | 44,762 | 365 | 1,675 | 2,041 |
| Urbandale, IA | 45,000 | 89 | 635 | 724 |
| Salem, MA | 44,881 | 152 | 1,554 | 1,706 |
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