A+
82%
Total crime NAT. AVG.
90%
Violent crime NAT. AVG.
80%
Property crime NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: This data reflects the 2024 calendar year and was released from the FBI in September, 2025; this is the most current data available.
StatisticReportedincidents/100k peopleTownsend/100k peopleDelaware/100k peopleNational/100k people
Total crime11n/a (estimate)3842,1072,119
Murder0n/a0.05.75.0
Rape0n/a0.015.737.5
Robbery0n/a0.047.060.6
Assault1n/a34.9292.4256.1
Violent crime1n/a (estimate)35361359
Burglary2n/a69.9175.1229.2
Theft5n/a174.71,361.91,272.1
Vehicle theft3n/a104.8208.8258.8
Property crime10n/a (estimate)3491,7461,760

Townsend crime map

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The Townsend crime map by CrimeoMeter provides a detailed overview of all crimes in Townsend as reported by the local law enforcement agencies. Based on the color coded legend above, the crime map outlines the areas with lower crime compared to the areas with higher crime. The Townsend crime heat map offers insight into the total crimes on a block group level. Please note that the red areas on the Townsend crime map does not always indicate that it is a dangerous area for its residents. Areas on the heat map could be inflated if they are located in high traffic areas like airports, sports centers or large parks. Other areas on the heat map could see increased crime rates if they are located in major tourist areas like the downtown core.
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An Overview of Crime Rates in Townsend, DE

Crime is typically categorized into two main types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. Based on the most recent report, the Townsend crime rate is lower than the national average by 81.9%. Specifically, there were 1 violent crimes in Townsend, equivalent to 35 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 90.3%. Furthermore, Townsend recorded 10 property crimes, amounting to 349 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 80.2%.

Townsend enjoys a remarkably low crime rate, standing at just 384, a significant contrast to the national average of 2119. This distinction firmly establishes Townsend as one of the safest places to reside in the entire United States. This crime rate is meticulously calculated, taking into account the total occurrences of both violent and property crimes per 100,000 individuals, providing a comprehensive perspective on the area's safety and livability.

Townsend stands out with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the United States. Reporting only 35 violent crimes per 100,000 people, Townsend secures its place among the safest cities in the nation, making it an enticing destination for those in search of a new home.

In a remarkable testament to the city's commitment to safety, Townsend reported a murder rate of 0. This could indicate that it is a very safe place to live, but also serves as an inspiration to other urban areas striving for safer communities. Examining the full crime report will provide a complete overview of all crimes - violent and property.

In 1991, property crime rates in the United States soared to over 5,140 crimes per 100,000 people. In the years since, the U.S. property crime rate has continued to decline with the most recent year reporting only 1760 property crimes. In Townsend, the property crime rate was even less than the national average with a rate of 349, cementing it as one of the safest places to live with regards to property crime.

Is Townsend a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Townsend 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 Townsend crime rate is 82% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.03 crimes per day - 0 violent crimes and 0.03 property crimes.

Potential Causes for Crime in Townsend

Townsend has a population density of 2517.8 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 Townsend crime rates.

In Townsend, the cost of living is 26.58% 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.

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 Townsend, the average rental rates are $2,575 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444.

Compare Townsend, DE Crime

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      Crime Quick Facts

      • Townsend crime rates are 82% lower than the national average
      • Violent crimes in Townsend are 90% lower than the national average
      • In Townsend you have a 1 in 261 chance of becoming a victim of crime
      • Townsend is safer than 88% of the cities in the United States
      • Year over year crime in Townsend has decreased by 27%

      Townsend, DE Crime Quiz

         

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        Daily Crime In Townsend (per 100,000 people)

        How Safe is Townsend (higher is better)

        Chance of Being A Victim of Crime in Townsend

        The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Townsend is 1 in 2863
        The chance of being a victim of property crime in Townsend is 1 in 287
        The chance of being a victim of crime in Townsend is 1 in 261

        Year Over Year Crime In Townsend (per 100,000 people)

        Townsend police department

        Item Townsend Delaware National
        Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians)n/a962558,732
        Police officers & civilians /1000 residentsn/a5.43.3

        Sex offenders in Delaware

        State Total offenders Delaware /100K National /100K
        Delaware4,039505266
        There are a total of 4,039 sex offenders in Delaware. This yields a total of 505 sex offenders in Delaware per 100,000 residents which is 90% greater than the national average.

        Nearby Cities With Low Crime Rates

        City Population Violent crime/100k people Property crime/100k people Total crime/100k people
        St. Georges, DE1,08472348420
        Clayton, DE3,485110506616
        Delaware City, DE1,848157575732
        Charlestown, MD1,590151739890
        Cheswold, DE1,7362949671,261
        Glasgow, DE15,9672701,3051,575
        Middletown, DE23,0571251,5431,668
        Townsend, DE2,64235349384

        Cities with similar population

        City Population Violent crime/100k people Property crime/100k people Total crime/100k people
        Pennington, NJ2,64269514583
        Mohawk, NY2,6422199921,211
        Pembroke, GA2,642139714853
        Shallowater, TX2,643206240445
        Lakeview, OR2,6431641,1801,344
        Townsend, DE2,64235349384
        Source: The Townsend, DE crime data displayed above is derived from the FBI's uniform crime reports for the year of 2024. The crime report encompasses more than 18,000 city and state law enforcement agencies reporting data on property and violent crimes. The uniform crime reports program represents approximately 309 million American residents, which results in 98% coverage of metropolitan statistical areas.