| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Smithfield/100k people | Virginia/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 117 | n/a (estimate) | 1,281 | 1,788 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 4.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 10.9 | 27.8 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 21.9 | 33.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 13 | n/a | 142.3 | 152.2 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 16 | n/a (estimate) | 175 | 218 | 359 |
| Burglary | 9 | n/a | 98.5 | 108.7 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 86 | n/a | 941.2 | 1,315.9 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 6 | n/a | 65.7 | 145.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 101 | n/a (estimate) | 1,105 | 1,570 | 1,760 |
Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Smithfield is 39.6% lower than the national average. Specifically, there were 16 violent crimes reported in Smithfield, equivalent to 175 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 51.2%. Additionally, Smithfield recorded 101 property crimes, amounting to 1105 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average by 37.2%.
Smithfield 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.
Determining whether Smithfield 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, Smithfield has an overall crime rate that is 40% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.32 daily occurrences, comprising 0.04 violent crimes and 0.28 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Smithfield as a potential place to establish residency.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Smithfield. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Smithfield has decreased by 7.9%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 60%, while property crime has decreased by 13.7%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Smithfield.
In Smithfield, the poverty rate currently stands at 12.2%, which contrasts with the national average of 15.1%. It's essential to recognize that the economic status of a city's inhabitants could be a pivotal factor influencing crime stats. Communities grappling with high poverty rates and income inequality are often susceptible to elevated crime levels, as some individuals may turn to unlawful activities to fulfill their essential needs. While lower poverty rates could lead to a reduction in Smithfield crime rates.
Smithfield has a population density of 931.6 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 90.6 people per square mile. High population density cities are often large urban hubs teeming with diverse economic opportunities. Within these environments, income disparities can become pronounced, leading to higher poverty levels. This economic divide may contribute to an uptick in property crimes and, occasionally, violent crimes. In contrast, areas characterized by low population density typically exhibit lower Smithfield crime rates.
In Smithfield, the cost of living is 13.76% higher 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.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Item | Smithfield | Virginia | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 25 | 8,827 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 3.0 | 3.2 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Virginia /100K | National /100K |
| Virginia | 25,766 | 352 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Rushmere, VA | 1,024 | 65 | 472 | 537 |
| Windsor, VA | 2,848 | 203 | 678 | 881 |
| Poquoson, VA | 12,541 | 313 | 665 | 977 |
| Carrollton, VA | 6,533 | 131 | 943 | 1,074 |
| Surry, VA | 337 | 258 | 1,859 | 2,118 |
| Hampton, VA | 138,888 | 248 | 2,882 | 3,130 |
| Newport News, VA | 184,134 | 736 | 2,416 | 3,152 |
| Smithfield, VA | 8,784 | 175 | 1,105 | 1,281 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Montvale, NJ | 8,785 | 50 | 938 | 988 |
| Prien, LA | 8,785 | 182 | 806 | 988 |
| Live Oak city, CA | 8,786 | 651 | 2,783 | 3,434 |
| Jennings Lodge, OR | 8,781 | 215 | 1,551 | 1,766 |
| Fort Lupton, CO | 8,787 | 270 | 1,502 | 1,773 |
| Smithfield, VA | 8,784 | 175 | 1,105 | 1,281 |
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