| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Salem/100k people | Ohio/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 186 | n/a (estimate) | 1,595 | 1,845 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 5 | n/a | 42.9 | 45.7 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 17.2 | 45.5 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 20 | n/a | 171.5 | 197.4 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 27 | n/a (estimate) | 232 | 294 | 359 |
| Burglary | 9 | n/a | 77.2 | 206.0 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 145 | n/a | 1,243.5 | 1,132.8 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 5 | n/a | 42.9 | 212.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 159 | n/a (estimate) | 1,364 | 1,551 | 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 24.7%. Specifically, there were 27 violent crimes in Salem, equivalent to 232 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 35.5%. Furthermore, Salem recorded 159 property crimes, amounting to 1364 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 22.5%.
During the most recently reported crime year, Salem 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.
AreaVibes has conducted polls asking local residents if they feel safe living in Salem. Based on the results of the surveys (8 responses), 63% of people felt that there was very little crime in Salem and felt safe walking alone at night. While 38% of people felt that it was not a safe place to live and did not feel safe walking alone at night.
Determining whether Salem 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, Salem has an overall crime rate that is 25% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.51 daily occurrences, comprising 0.07 violent crimes and 0.44 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Salem as a potential place to establish residency.
Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Salem. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Salem has decreased by 20.2%. Violent crimes have increased by 58.8%, while property crimes have decreased by 26.4%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.
Salem has a poverty rate that stands at 21.6, 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.
In Salem, the cost of living is 17.03% lower than the national average. A high cost of living can induce economic stress for locals, especially those with limited financial resources. When people grapple with soaring housing expenses, utility bills, healthcare costs, and other essential necessities, they may be driven towards criminal activities, including theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities boasting a lower cost of living may mitigate economic pressures and potentially result in reduced crime rates.
The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Salem, there are 1.55 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage with the community.
| Item | Salem | Ohio | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 19 | 17,044 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.5 | 2.7 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Ohio /100K | National /100K |
| Ohio | 17,872 | 156 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Columbiana, OH | 6,733 | 73 | 308 | 381 |
| Canfield, OH | 7,421 | 53 | 343 | 395 |
| Lisbon, OH | 2,746 | 40 | 477 | 517 |
| Poland, OH | 2,480 | 86 | 455 | 542 |
| Craig Beach, OH | 1,711 | 104 | 549 | 653 |
| Beloit, OH | 1,194 | 133 | 700 | 833 |
| Leetonia, OH | 2,213 | 137 | 724 | 861 |
| Salem, OH | 12,141 | 232 | 1,364 | 1,595 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Webb City, MO | 12,139 | 224 | 2,126 | 2,350 |
| Bucyrus, OH | 12,135 | 113 | 1,375 | 1,488 |
| Crossville, TN | 12,131 | 646 | 2,585 | 3,232 |
| Emeryville, CA | 12,131 | 1,231 | 13,488 | 14,719 |
| Grafton, WI | 12,131 | 78 | 618 | 696 |
| Salem, OH | 12,141 | 232 | 1,364 | 1,595 |
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