| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Shirley/100k people | Massachusetts/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 26 | n/a (estimate) | 379 | 1,427 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 1.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 2 | n/a | 29.2 | 27.6 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 36.0 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 5 | n/a | 72.9 | 249.3 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 7 | n/a (estimate) | 102 | 315 | 359 |
| Burglary | 1 | n/a | 14.6 | 130.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 12 | n/a | 175.0 | 876.3 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 6 | n/a | 87.5 | 105.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 19 | n/a (estimate) | 277 | 1,112 | 1,760 |

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.
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.
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%.
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.

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| Item | Shirley | Massachusetts | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 14 | 11,659 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.9 | 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 |
| Clinton, MA | 7,222 | 44 | 57 | 101 |
| Groton, MA | 1,154 | 44 | 192 | 235 |
| Rutland, MA | 1,789 | 103 | 216 | 319 |
| West Concord, MA | 7,498 | 102 | 362 | 464 |
| South Lancaster, MA | 1,628 | 104 | 367 | 471 |
| Pepperell, MA | 2,750 | 109 | 368 | 476 |
| East Pepperell, MA | 1,981 | 112 | 397 | 509 |
| Shirley, MA | 1,758 | 102 | 277 | 379 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Harlan, IN | 1,758 | 98 | 433 | 531 |
| Malvern, AL | 1,758 | 158 | 687 | 845 |
| West Unity, OH | 1,758 | 130 | 685 | 815 |
| Lake Sherwood, CA | 1,758 | 68 | 292 | 360 |
| Hamilton, IN | 1,759 | 73 | 324 | 397 |
| Shirley, MA | 1,758 | 102 | 277 | 379 |