What does this measure?

The number of reported violent crimes per 1,000 residents. Murder, rape, robbery and aggravated assault are included in violent crimes.

Why is this important?

Crime affects quality of life for those who directly experience and witness it, sometimes resulting in long-lasting trauma. Indirectly, it also affects the lives of others in the community, as well housing stability and a community's perceived attractiveness as a place to live, work and do business.

How is our county performing?

In 2016, there were 2.7 violent crimes reported per 1,000 residents in Berks County, lower than Pennsylvania's rate. The county rate fluctuated year to year, ending 21% below the 2005 rate. By comparison, the state's violent crime rate dropped steadily during 2005 to 2016 - a 22% decline, while the US fell 18% in the same period. In contrast, Reading City had 6.8 violent crimes reported per 1,000 residents, a 38% decline from 2005.

Violent crime rates in 2016 were higher in Berks than in most neighboring counties except Schuylkill. Montgomery's rate was less than half that of Berks, at 1.2, followed by Chester, 1.4, Lebanon at 1.5, Lancaster at 1.8 and Lehigh at 1.9. Schuylkill's rate was significantly higher than all counties at 4.7. Similar to Berks, Lancaster and Schuylkill had year-to-year fluctuations in their rates though both had higher rates in 2016 than in 2005. The largest declines occurred in Lehigh and Montgomery (both at 45%), and Lebanon (52%).

Notes about the data

Crime reports are never complete because not all crimes are reported, and some crimes in particular, such as rape and assault, are believed to be underreported. Data are from the FBI's Uniform Crime Report. It should be noted that this indicator represents crime penetration. Because areas vary in population, counts of criminal incidents do not accurately measure impact. By presenting crimes per 1,000 residents, it is possible to compare rural and urban areas of the state.

There may be additional research available on this topic. Click on Reports and Resources to learn more.