What does this measure?
The number of property crimes, per 1,000 residents. These crimes include arson, burglary, theft, fraud, embezzlement, and destruction/vandalism.
Why is this important?
Crime detracts from the quality of life of those who directly experience and witness it, but it also impacts the lives of others within the community, as well as housing stability, and a community's attractiveness as a place to live, work, and do business.
How is our county doing?
The rate of reported property crimes in Essex County in 2024 was 15.4 per 1,000 residents, below the state rate of 20.8. This is a 30% decrease from 2015, when the rate was 22.1.
The highest property crime rates were in Salem (27.4), Saugus (22.9) and Danvers (22.2). Rates in all three communities decreased from 2015.
How do we compare to similar counties?
Middlesex (18.7 per 1,000 residents) had a slightly higher rate than Essex County in 2024. Comparable data for Lake, IL and Westchester, NY was not available.
Notes about the data
The City of Lawrence did not report data prior to 2020. Property crime includes burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft. Comparable national data and rates for comparison counties were not available.