A+
82%
Total crime NAT. AVG.
72%
Violent crime NAT. AVG.
84%
Property crime NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: This data reflects the 2024 calendar year and was released from the FBI in September, 2025; this is the most current data available.
StatisticReportedincidents/100k peopleShirley/100k peopleMassachusetts/100k peopleNational/100k people
Total crime26n/a (estimate)3791,4272,119
Murder0n/a0.01.85.0
Rape2n/a29.227.637.5
Robbery0n/a0.036.060.6
Assault5n/a72.9249.3256.1
Violent crime7n/a (estimate)102315359
Burglary1n/a14.6130.3229.2
Theft12n/a175.0876.31,272.1
Vehicle theft6n/a87.5105.5258.8
Property crime19n/a (estimate)2771,1121,760

Shirley crime map

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The Shirley crime map by CrimeoMeter provides a detailed overview of all crimes in Shirley as reported by the local law enforcement agencies. Based on the color coded legend above, the crime map outlines the areas with lower crime compared to the areas with higher crime. The Shirley crime heat map offers insight into the total crimes on a block group level. Please note that the red areas on the Shirley crime map does not always indicate that it is a dangerous area for its residents. Areas on the heat map could be inflated if they are located in high traffic areas like airports, sports centers or large parks. Other areas on the heat map could see increased crime rates if they are located in major tourist areas like the downtown core.
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An Overview of Crime Rates in Shirley, MA

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Shirley crime rate is 82.1% lower than the national average. These incidents are classified into two primary categories: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes include assault, robbery, rape and murder. Whereas property crimes encompass theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In the case of Shirley, there were 7 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 102 per 100,000 individuals, 71.6% lower than the national average. Additionally, Shirley recorded 19 property crimes, amounting to 277 per 100,000 residents, 84.3% lower than the U.S. average.

Shirley proudly maintains an impressively low crime rate, registering at a mere 379, which sharply contrasts with the national average of 2119. This stark contrast firmly positions Shirley as one of the most secure residential destinations throughout the entire United States. The total crime rate takes into account the total occurrences of both violent and property crimes per 100,000 people, offering an invaluable assessment of the area's safety suitability for living.

Shirley stands out with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the United States. Reporting only 102 violent crimes per 100,000 people, Shirley secures its place among the safest cities in the nation, making it an enticing destination for those in search of a new home.

In the most recently reported crime year, Shirley 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.

The property crime rates per 100,000 individuals have shown a steady decrease of more than 50% since 1990, with a slight uptick in recent years. The most recent crime data reveals that Shirley records a property crime rate of 277 incidents per 100,000 people, significantly lower than the national average of 1760. This underscores Shirley as an exceptionally secure and attractive residential destination, highlighting its unwavering dedication to fostering safety and community well-being.

Is Shirley a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Shirley 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 Shirley crime rate is 82% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.07 crimes per day - 0.02 violent crimes and 0.05 property crimes.

Has Crime in Shirley Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in Shirley crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Shirley has decreased by 35% year over year. Violent crime has decreased by 58.8% and property crime has decreased by 17.4%.

Potential Causes for Crime in Shirley

Highly populated regions typically encompass expansive urban hubs teeming with diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality can be exacerbated, giving rise to enclaves of poverty amid affluence. Communities marked by economic disparities may contend with heightened property crimes, and in certain instances, violent crimes. Conversely, regions characterized by low population density often exhibit lower Shirley crime rates. For instance, in Shirley, the population density stands at 1338.5 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.

The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Shirley stands at $463,418, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.

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 Shirley, the average rental rates are $1,217 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444.

Homes For Sale In Shirley, MA

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      Crime Quick Facts

      • Shirley crime rates are 82% lower than the national average
      • Violent crimes in Shirley are 72% lower than the national average
      • In Shirley you have a 1 in 264 chance of becoming a victim of crime
      • Shirley is safer than 78% of the cities in the United States
      • Year over year crime in Shirley has decreased by 14%

      Shirley, MA Crime Quiz

         

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        Daily Crime In Shirley (per 100,000 people)

        How Safe is Shirley (higher is better)

        Chance of Being A Victim of Crime in Shirley

        The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Shirley is 1 in 980
        The chance of being a victim of property crime in Shirley is 1 in 361
        The chance of being a victim of crime in Shirley is 1 in 264

        Year Over Year Crime In Shirley (per 100,000 people)

        Shirley police department

        Item Shirley Massachusetts National
        Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians)1411,659558,732
        Police officers & civilians /1000 residents1.92.23.3
        There are a total of 14 Shirley police officers. This results in 1.9 police officers per 1,000 residents which is 11.4% less than the Massachusetts average and 41.3% less than the National average.

        Sex offenders in Massachusetts

        State Total offenders Massachusetts /100K National /100K
        Massachusetts4,55172266
        There are a total of 4,551 sex offenders in Massachusetts. This yields a total of 72 sex offenders in Massachusetts per 100,000 residents which is 73% less than the national average.

        Nearby Cities With Low Crime Rates

        City Population Violent crime/100k people Property crime/100k people Total crime/100k people
        Clinton, MA7,2224457101
        Groton, MA1,15444192235
        Rutland, MA1,789103216319
        West Concord, MA7,498102362464
        South Lancaster, MA1,628104367471
        Pepperell, MA2,750109368476
        East Pepperell, MA1,981112397509
        Shirley, MA1,758102277379

        Cities with similar population

        City Population Violent crime/100k people Property crime/100k people Total crime/100k people
        Harlan, IN1,75898433531
        Malvern, AL1,758158687845
        West Unity, OH1,758130685815
        Lake Sherwood, CA1,75868292360
        Hamilton, IN1,75973324397
        Shirley, MA1,758102277379
        Source: The Shirley, MA crime data displayed above is derived from the FBI's uniform crime reports for the year of 2024. The crime report encompasses more than 18,000 city and state law enforcement agencies reporting data on property and violent crimes. The uniform crime reports program represents approximately 309 million American residents, which results in 98% coverage of metropolitan statistical areas.