Idaho is well known for its breathtaking scenery, quaint small-town atmosphere, and limitless outdoor activities, but how does it stack up in terms of safety?
Consistently rated as one of the safest states in the union, Idaho offers peace of mind. In fact, Idaho ranks fourth nationally in terms of safety according to WalletHub.
Not just crime is measured here; other important aspects that contribute to Idaho’s great reputation include overall quality of life, emergency preparation, and other important factors.
What Does the Data Regarding Crime Rates Tell Us?
Idaho’s violent crime rate is still lower in 2024 than the national average, according to World Population Review. Using the most recent information available:
- Idaho’s violent crime rate is roughly 241 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, which is much lower than the national average of 380 violent crimes per 100,000 residents.
- With overall crime rates—especially violent crime—much below the national median for the United States, the state has continuously been rated as one of the safest in the nation.
- Idaho continues to have a lower violent crime rate than its neighboring states, including Wyoming, which also reports low crime rates. This makes Idaho one of the safer states in the Mountain West.
Idaho Crime: Regional Differences
The following figures are from Neighborhood Scout:
Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls still has a comparatively low rate of violent crime, despite having significantly more property crime than Boise. Though still safer than many other parts of the nation, the likelihood of becoming a victim of violent crime is 1 in 286 for locals.
Boise
The capital city enjoys a low violent crime rate, with a 1 in 400 probability of becoming a victim, and property crime rates that are likewise much lower than the national average. In comparison to other American cities, this makes Boise a very safe city.
Meridian
Meridian is renowned for its welcoming environment for families and has a crime rate that is 66.8% lower than the national average. It’s among the safest areas to reside in Idaho in terms of violent and property crimes.
About Traffic Safety
While accidents can occur, every effort is made to maintain the highest level of road safety. The Idaho State Police advise that when traveling on these roads, especially when the weather gets bad, you should slow down and drive at a safe speed.
Although they are essential for maintaining clear roadways, snowplows can also be engaged in collisions, as the Idaho Transportation Department has shown in a number of recent reports involving snowplows.
It is recommended that cars allow snowplows plenty of room and not pass them unless it is absolutely required.
Read Also: This Small Georgia Town Suddenly Transformed Into the State’s Crime Hotspot
Natural Disasters and Hazards to the Environment
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Coexisting with nature is another aspect of living in Idaho, and although it contributes greatly to the state’s appeal, there are certain risks involved. As was previously indicated, wildfires can pose a significant risk in the summer, especially in rural or wooded areas.
Fortunately, Idaho has dedicated firefighting personnel and fire prevention techniques in place, so it is well-equipped to manage these circumstances.
Idaho is not recognized for having many large earthquakes, however there are occasionally little tremors. This is in addition to fires.
Although flooding is uncommon, it can be a problem in some areas of the state during periods of intense rain or quick snowmelt.
Read Also: Michigan’s Crime Hotspots: Cities with the Highest Risk
Law enforcement and Public Safety
Strong police presence and involved communities are also factors in Idaho’s low crime rate. In general, law enforcement in the state is well-respected, especially in places like Boise where the police are well-known for their close collaboration with the local community.
Police are still present in more remote locations, but because of the distance, it may take them a little longer to respond. Nevertheless, Idaho has a comparatively high overall crime-solving rate, and serious crimes are usually resolved fast.
Police and Community Watch
A spirit of mutual responsibility among residents of many Idaho villages deters crime. A sense of “we’re all in this together” motivates people to participate in neighborhood watches and other community policing initiatives. Here, people watch out for one another and cooperate to stop crimes before they happen.
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