| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Waynesville/100k people | North Carolina/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 358 | n/a (estimate) | 3,311 | 2,344 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 2 | n/a | 18.5 | 7.5 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 11 | n/a | 101.7 | 28.0 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 18.5 | 50.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 39 | n/a | 360.7 | 290.1 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 54 | n/a (estimate) | 499 | 376 | 359 |
| Burglary | 28 | n/a | 258.9 | 323.9 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 266 | n/a | 2,460.0 | 1,390.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 10 | n/a | 92.5 | 254.1 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 304 | n/a (estimate) | 2,811 | 1,968 | 1,760 |
The Waynesville crime rates are 56.2% higher than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 54 violent crimes in Waynesville (499 per 100,000 people), which is 39.1% higher than the national average and there were a total of 304 property crimes (2811 per 100,000 residents) which is 59.7% higher than average.
While murder rates in the United States have generally declined since 1990, recent years have seen an unfortunate uptick. Waynesville stands out with one of the nation's highest murder rates among cities reporting crime data. In Waynesville, a total of 2 murders were reported, equating to 18 murders per 100,000 residents. This statistic underscores the challenges facing the area in terms of severe violent crime and the importance of ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security within the community.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Waynesville residents. Out of the respondents (29 in total), 69% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Waynesville were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 31% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Waynesville 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 Waynesville crime rate is 56% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.98 crimes per day - 0.15 violent crimes and 0.83 property crimes.
Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Waynesville. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Waynesville has decreased by 55.3%. Violent crimes have increased by 5.9%, while property crimes have decreased by 59.5%. 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.
In Waynesville, the cost of living is 0.93% 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.
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 Waynesville, there are 4.23 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.
High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Waynesville are $1,179, compared to a national average of $1,444 per month.
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 | Waynesville | North Carolina | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 42 | 14,511 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 4.2 | 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 |
| Lake Junaluska, NC | 3,344 | 106 | 557 | 664 |
| Clyde, NC | 1,522 | 126 | 658 | 784 |
| West Canton, NC | 1,462 | 141 | 738 | 879 |
| Webster, NC | 336 | 239 | 1,253 | 1,492 |
| Cullowhee, NC | 7,021 | 268 | 1,401 | 1,669 |
| Canton, NC | 4,427 | 158 | 1,879 | 2,038 |
| Dillsboro, NC | 223 | 341 | 1,786 | 2,128 |
| Waynesville, NC | 10,454 | 499 | 2,811 | 3,311 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| East Stroudsburg, PA | 10,453 | 237 | 1,384 | 1,622 |
| Linthicum, MD | 10,458 | 371 | 1,810 | 2,180 |
| Doraville, GA | 10,449 | 563 | 5,223 | 5,786 |
| Waverly, IA | 10,459 | 141 | 886 | 1,027 |
| Browns Mills, NJ | 10,446 | 279 | 1,824 | 2,103 |
| Waynesville, NC | 10,454 | 499 | 2,811 | 3,311 |
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