| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Spring Lake/100k people | North Carolina/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 449 | n/a (estimate) | 3,918 | 2,344 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 7.5 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 3 | n/a | 26.2 | 28.0 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 3 | n/a | 26.2 | 50.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 56 | n/a | 488.7 | 290.1 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 62 | n/a (estimate) | 541 | 376 | 359 |
| Burglary | 78 | n/a | 680.7 | 323.9 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 240 | n/a | 2,094.4 | 1,390.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 69 | n/a | 602.1 | 254.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 387 | n/a (estimate) | 3,377 | 1,968 | 1,760 |

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Spring Lake crime rate is 84.9% higher 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 Spring Lake, there were 62 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 541 per 100,000 individuals, 50.7% higher than the national average. Additionally, Spring Lake recorded 387 property crimes, amounting to 3377 per 100,000 residents, 91.9% higher than the U.S. average.
Spring Lake 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.
Vehicle thefts across all of America are on the rise and Spring Lake has one of the highest vehicle theft rates in the country. In the most recent crime report, Spring Lake reported 69 vehicle thefts, which equates to 602 stolen vehicles per 100,000 people. This falls in the bottom 10% of all cities, meaning that 90% of cities have better vehicle theft rates. The chance of having your vehicle stolen in Spring Lake is 1 in 167.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Spring Lake residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 13 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 38% of Spring Lake 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, 62% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Spring Lake 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 Spring Lake crime rate is 85% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 1.23 crimes per day - 0.17 violent crimes and 1.06 property crimes.
If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Spring Lake crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Spring Lake has an unemployment rate of 3.9%, compared to a national average of 4.9%.
In Spring Lake, the cost of living is 11.46% lower than the national average. A substantial cost of living can burden residents, particularly those with constrained financial means. When individuals contend with steep housing expenses, grocery bills, utility costs, healthcare and essential needs that strain their budgets, they may turn to criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities characterized by a more affordable cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, which could potentially lead to decreased crime rates.
In areas where housing affordability is an issue, crime can become a significant concern. Some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions, which can increase stress and potentially contribute to domestic disputes and related crimes. The median home price in Spring Lake is $172,291, compared to a national average of $326,622.
| Item | Spring Lake | North Carolina | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 28 | 14,511 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.3 | 4.8 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | North Carolina /100K | National /100K |
| North Carolina | 26,293 | 320 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Eastover, NC | 3,859 | 145 | 760 | 905 |
| Rockfish, NC | 3,802 | 175 | 917 | 1,092 |
| Silver City, NC | 1,134 | 197 | 1,029 | 1,225 |
| Lillington, NC | 3,690 | 211 | 1,102 | 1,312 |
| Raeford, NC | 5,115 | 110 | 1,432 | 1,543 |
| Linden, NC | 114 | 424 | 2,221 | 2,645 |
| Hope Mills, NC | 16,493 | 427 | 2,234 | 2,660 |
| Spring Lake, NC | 12,346 | 541 | 3,377 | 3,918 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Newcastle, WA | 12,354 | 47 | 2,271 | 2,319 |
| Myrtle Grove, NC | 12,355 | 143 | 750 | 893 |
| St. Peter, MN | 12,333 | 73 | 558 | 631 |
| Lansing, KS | 12,363 | 152 | 597 | 749 |
| Norton, OH | 12,365 | 133 | 1,635 | 1,768 |
| Spring Lake, NC | 12,346 | 541 | 3,377 | 3,918 |