| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Sidney/100k people | Montana/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 70 | n/a (estimate) | 1,161 | 2,041 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 2.7 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 6 | n/a | 99.5 | 59.2 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 1 | n/a | 16.6 | 19.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 21 | n/a | 348.2 | 342.5 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 28 | n/a (estimate) | 464 | 424 | 359 |
| Burglary | 9 | n/a | 149.2 | 167.2 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 29 | n/a | 480.8 | 1,286.0 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 4 | n/a | 66.3 | 164.0 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 42 | n/a (estimate) | 696 | 1,617 | 1,760 |

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Sidney crime rate is 45.2% 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 Sidney, there were 28 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 464 per 100,000 individuals, 29.3% higher than the national average. Additionally, Sidney recorded 42 property crimes, amounting to 696 per 100,000 residents, 60.4% lower than the U.S. average.
During the most recently reported crime year, Sidney 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.
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 Sidney records a property crime rate of 696 incidents per 100,000 people, significantly lower than the national average of 1760. This underscores Sidney as an exceptionally secure and attractive residential destination, highlighting its unwavering dedication to fostering safety and community well-being.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Sidney residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 9 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 44% of Sidney 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, 56% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
To determine if Sidney is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Sidney has a total crime rate that is 45% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.19 daily crimes (0.08 violent daily crimes and 0.12 daily property crimes) in Sidney.
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 Sidney 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 Sidney has decreased by 31.4% year over year. Violent crime has decreased by 15.2% and property crime has decreased by 39.1%.
Rising cost of living expenses, including increased housing costs, grocery, utility and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards crime, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In Sidney, the cost of living is 2.01% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.
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 Sidney, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 0 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.
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 Sidney stands at $428,181, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
| Item | Sidney | Montana | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 11 | 872 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | n/a | n/a | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Montana /100K | National /100K |
| Montana | 2,923 | 291 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Crane, MT | 257 | 421 | 1,605 | 2,026 |
| Fairview, MT | 1,015 | 462 | 1,761 | 2,223 |
| Sidney, MT | 6,559 | 464 | 696 | 1,161 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Brunswick, MD | 6,559 | 130 | 495 | 624 |
| Fowler, CA | 6,556 | 510 | 1,234 | 1,743 |
| Hamlet, NC | 6,555 | 404 | 2,114 | 2,518 |
| Kingston, RI | 6,555 | 123 | 822 | 945 |
| Chillicothe, IL | 6,552 | 152 | 944 | 1,095 |
| Sidney, MT | 6,559 | 464 | 696 | 1,161 |