| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Wauwatosa/100k people | Wisconsin/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 1,263 | n/a (estimate) | 2,689 | 1,433 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 4.2 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 7 | n/a | 14.9 | 34.8 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 23 | n/a | 49.0 | 39.4 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 67 | n/a | 142.6 | 200.1 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 97 | n/a (estimate) | 207 | 279 | 359 |
| Burglary | 70 | n/a | 149.0 | 117.2 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 943 | n/a | 2,007.8 | 875.6 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 153 | n/a | 325.8 | 161.3 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 1,166 | n/a (estimate) | 2,483 | 1,154 | 1,760 |
Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Wauwatosa is 26.9% higher than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Wauwatosa, there were 97 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 207 per 100,000 individuals, 42.5% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 1166 property crimes, amounting to 2483 per 100,000 residents, 41.1% higher than the U.S. average.
Wauwatosa 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.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Wauwatosa residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 12 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 42% of Wauwatosa 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, 58% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Is Wauwatosa a safe place to live? While the answer may not be straightforward due to variations in safety levels across the city, gaining an understanding of the overall crime rate can prove to be advantageous. In general, Wauwatosa has a crime rate that is higher than the national average by 27%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 3.46 daily incidents, encompassing 0.27 violent crimes and 3.19 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Wauwatosa as a potential place to call home.
Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Wauwatosa. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Wauwatosa has decreased by 7.5%. Violent crimes have increased by 40.6%, while property crimes have decreased by 10%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.
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 Wauwatosa, 95.2% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, in contrast to the national average where 83% have achieved high school graduation.
The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Wauwatosa, there are 2.4 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage 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 Wauwatosa stands at $450,093, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
| Item | Wauwatosa | Wisconsin | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 112 | 9,355 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.4 | 2.4 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Wisconsin /100K | National /100K |
| Wisconsin | 24,983 | 456 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Thiensville, WI | 3,227 | 0 | 213 | 213 |
| Bayside, WI | 4,686 | 23 | 229 | 252 |
| Big Bend, WI | 1,316 | 50 | 207 | 257 |
| Merton, WI | 3,864 | 53 | 220 | 273 |
| River Hills, WI | 1,472 | 0 | 384 | 384 |
| Lannon, WI | 1,221 | 83 | 345 | 429 |
| Elm Grove, WI | 6,322 | 0 | 496 | 496 |
| Wauwatosa, WI | 49,450 | 207 | 2,483 | 2,689 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Jeffersonville, IN | 49,450 | 322 | 1,666 | 1,988 |
| Ceres, CA | 49,472 | 397 | 1,848 | 2,245 |
| Palm Springs, CA | 49,537 | 603 | 3,213 | 3,817 |
| Roswell, NM | 49,357 | 848 | 2,509 | 3,357 |
| Covina, CA | 49,338 | 353 | 1,612 | 1,965 |
| Wauwatosa, WI | 49,450 | 207 | 2,483 | 2,689 |
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