| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Salina/100k people | Kansas/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 1,349 | n/a (estimate) | 2,968 | 2,395 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 3.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 40 | n/a | 88.0 | 44.1 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 37 | n/a | 81.4 | 30.9 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 147 | n/a | 323.5 | 359.9 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 224 | n/a (estimate) | 493 | 439 | 359 |
| Burglary | 147 | n/a | 323.5 | 261.6 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 906 | n/a | 1,993.5 | 1,458.5 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 72 | n/a | 158.4 | 236.3 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 1,125 | n/a (estimate) | 2,475 | 1,956 | 1,760 |
Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Salina is 40.1% higher 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 Salina, there were 224 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 493 per 100,000 individuals, 37.3% higher than the national average. Additionally, there were 1125 property crimes, amounting to 2475 per 100,000 residents, 40.6% higher than the U.S. average.
Salina showcased a dedication to violent crime safety in its latest reported crime year by achieving a murder rate of 0. This accomplishment could indicate that it is a safe place for residents, but also provides a shining example to other urban areas endeavoring to create safer communities.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Salina residents. Out of the respondents (53 in total), 30% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Salina were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 70% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Salina a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Salina crime rate is 40% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 3.7 crimes per day - 0.61 violent crimes and 3.08 property crimes.
Year-over-year crime rates in Salina has decreased by 28.6% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Salina 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 3.5%, while property crime has decreased by 32.1%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Salina.
If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Salina crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Salina has an unemployment rate of 2.8%, compared to a national average of 4.9%.
Law enforcement and community policing efforts can play a pivotal role in shaping crime rates. Establishing a robust and cooperative partnership between the police and the community can act as a deterrent to criminal behavior and enhance overall safety. In Salina, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 2.22 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents compared to 3.25 nationally. Effective law enforcement often hinges on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the community. It's not solely about the quantity of officers but also the quality of their engagement with the community.
High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Salina are $1,138, compared to a national average of $1,444 per month.
| Item | Salina | Kansas | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 107 | 5,262 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.2 | 2.5 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Kansas /100K | National /100K |
| Kansas | 9,632 | 349 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Assaria, KS | 452 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Solomon, KS | 1,161 | 176 | 786 | 963 |
| Tescott, KS | 310 | 398 | 1,774 | 2,172 |
| New Cambria, KS | 94 | 418 | 1,863 | 2,281 |
| Smolan, KS | 198 | 530 | 2,360 | 2,889 |
| Gypsum, KS | 428 | 537 | 2,393 | 2,930 |
| Brookville, KS | 249 | 555 | 2,472 | 3,027 |
| Salina, KS | 47,832 | 493 | 2,475 | 2,968 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Hattiesburg, MS | 47,823 | 222 | 3,465 | 3,687 |
| Four Corners, FL | 47,768 | 261 | 1,389 | 1,651 |
| Titusville, FL | 47,899 | 518 | 1,281 | 1,799 |
| Bothell, WA | 47,762 | 110 | 1,369 | 1,479 |
| Littleton, CO | 47,719 | 213 | 2,518 | 2,732 |
| Salina, KS | 47,832 | 493 | 2,475 | 2,968 |
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