| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Smithville/100k people | Missouri/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 97 | n/a (estimate) | 891 | 2,403 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 7.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 6 | n/a | 55.1 | 45.2 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 1 | n/a | 9.2 | 51.5 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 13 | n/a | 119.4 | 357.5 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 20 | n/a (estimate) | 184 | 462 | 359 |
| Burglary | 6 | n/a | 55.1 | 236.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 61 | n/a | 560.3 | 1,306.5 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 10 | n/a | 91.8 | 398.4 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 77 | n/a (estimate) | 707 | 1,941 | 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 Smithville is 58% lower than the national average. Specifically, there were 20 violent crimes reported in Smithville, equivalent to 184 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 48.9%. Additionally, Smithville recorded 77 property crimes, amounting to 707 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average by 59.8%.
During the most recently reported crime year, Smithville 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.
Determining whether Smithville 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, Smithville has an overall crime rate that is 58% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.27 daily occurrences, comprising 0.05 violent crimes and 0.21 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Smithville as a potential place to establish residency.
Year-over-year crime rates in Smithville has decreased by 9.4% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Smithville 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 increased by 25%, while property crime has decreased by 15.4%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Smithville.
The educational level achieved in any given city can influence crime rates significantly. Greater educational achievement is frequently associated with decreased crime rates, as it offers individuals improved job prospects and alternatives to engaging in crime related activities. Conversely, lower educational attainment rates tend to coincide with elevated crime rates. In Smithville, 91.8% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, in contrast to the national average where 83% have achieved high school graduation.
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 Smithville stands at $371,477, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
Elevated rental costs can generate economic strain for both individuals and families, particularly those with restricted financial means. When a substantial proportion of one's income is allocated to housing costs, it often leaves limited resources for fulfilling other crucial necessities such as groceries, healthcare and education. This financial pressure can fuel desperation, potentially prompting individuals to resort to criminal actions, including theft or fraud, as a means of coping with their financial hardships. In Smithville, the average monthly rent stands at $1,117, while the national average is $1,444 per month.
| Item | Smithville | Missouri | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 15 | 12,115 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | n/a | 3.7 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Missouri /100K | National /100K |
| Missouri | 19,657 | 344 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Platte Woods, MO | 586 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Oakview, MO | 455 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Weatherby Lake, MO | 2,562 | 72 | 304 | 377 |
| Kearney, MO | 10,736 | 213 | 612 | 825 |
| Parkville, MO | 7,398 | 117 | 736 | 853 |
| Gower, MO | 1,727 | 177 | 743 | 919 |
| Plattsburg, MO | 2,421 | 184 | 774 | 959 |
| Smithville, MO | 10,630 | 184 | 707 | 891 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Reading, OH | 10,626 | 153 | 2,132 | 2,285 |
| Belle Chasse, LA | 10,634 | 198 | 875 | 1,073 |
| Vienna, WV | 10,635 | 154 | 3,309 | 3,463 |
| Fairfield, IA | 10,625 | 141 | 486 | 627 |
| Lincoln Park, NJ | 10,623 | 18 | 607 | 624 |
| Smithville, MO | 10,630 | 184 | 707 | 891 |