| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Wheeling/100k people | West Virginia/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 772 | n/a (estimate) | 2,975 | 1,411 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 14 | n/a | 53.9 | 48.0 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 14 | n/a | 53.9 | 9.7 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 227 | n/a | 874.7 | 185.8 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 255 | n/a (estimate) | 983 | 249 | 359 |
| Burglary | 145 | n/a | 558.7 | 178.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 343 | n/a | 1,321.7 | 905.1 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 29 | n/a | 111.7 | 78.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 517 | n/a (estimate) | 1,992 | 1,162 | 1,760 |
Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Wheeling is 40.4% 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 Wheeling, there were 255 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 983 per 100,000 individuals, 173.6% higher than the national average. Additionally, there were 517 property crimes, amounting to 1992 per 100,000 residents, 13.2% higher than the U.S. average.
Wheeling has gained notoriety as one of the most dangerous cities in the United States, given its alarming violent crime rate of 983 crimes per 100,000 people. In fact, Wheeling falls within the lowest 10% among cities reporting violent crimes last year, resulting in a concerning 1 in 102 likelihood of experiencing a violent crime. It's important to note that safety levels may vary across different areas within the city, and this statistic doesn't necessarily reflect the entire city's situation regarding violent crime.
Wheeling 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.
Wheeling maintains a property crime rate that closely resembles the national norm. In Wheeling, 1992 property crimes were reported, aligning with the national average of 1760 per 100,000 individuals. Consequently, the area's safety profile stands on par with the average city, neither significantly safer nor more dangerous. This consistency underscores a balanced commitment to community safety and security, providing residents with a stable and reassuring living environment.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Wheeling residents. Out of the respondents (31 in total), 29% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Wheeling were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 71% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
To get a feel for the safety of living in Wheeling, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Wheeling presents a total crime rate that is 40% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Wheeling experiences an average of 2.12 daily crimes, comprising 0.7 violent incidents and 1.42 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Wheeling. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Wheeling has increased by 11.6%. Specifically, violent crime has didn't change by 0%, while property crime has increased by 18.3%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Wheeling.
Regions characterized by high population density frequently encompass expansive urban hubs that offer diverse economic prospects. In such areas, income inequality can be exacerbated, creating pockets of poverty alongside affluence. Economic disparities within these regions may correlate with elevated property crimes and, in certain instances, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density numbers generally exhibit reduced Wheeling crime rates. Wheeling registers a population density of 1995.6 people per square mile, in contrast to the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.
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 Wheeling stands at $201,001, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
In Wheeling, the average rental rates are $974 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. Rapid increases in rental costs can lead to neighborhood instability as residents are forced to move frequently in search of more affordable housing. This transience can weaken community bonds and hinder the establishment of social support networks, which can indirectly contribute to crime. While affordable rent and areas with higher income per capita, allow for long term renters and community bonds to the formed, therefore reducing crime rates on the long term.
| Item | Wheeling | West Virginia | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 84 | 1,642 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 3.0 | 3.0 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | West Virginia /100K | National /100K |
| West Virginia | 4,917 | 266 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Bridgeport, OH | 1,712 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| St. Clairsville, OH | 5,236 | 0 | 142 | 142 |
| Bethlehem, WV | 2,554 | 51 | 237 | 287 |
| Wellsburg, WV | 2,146 | 102 | 478 | 581 |
| McMechen, WV | 1,903 | 104 | 487 | 591 |
| Bethany, WV | 1,062 | 105 | 489 | 594 |
| West Liberty, WV | 1,711 | 108 | 502 | 609 |
| Wheeling, WV | 27,630 | 983 | 1,992 | 2,975 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Chaska, MN | 27,617 | 85 | 635 | 720 |
| Temple Terrace, FL | 27,643 | 418 | 1,652 | 2,069 |
| Norco, CA | 27,611 | 146 | 2,543 | 2,688 |
| West Islip, NY | 27,610 | 193 | 876 | 1,069 |
| Hutto, TX | 27,658 | 58 | 1,034 | 1,092 |
| Wheeling, WV | 27,630 | 983 | 1,992 | 2,975 |
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