Study: Safest Cities in Oregon 2016
From snow-capped mountains to the rugged coast, Oregon has it all, including plenty of safe cities.
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| Safest Cities in Oregon 2016 © CreditDonkey |
The proof is in the numbers: The Beaver State’s violent crime rate is well below the national average, and its property crime rate is on par with the rest of the country. CreditDonkey has highlighted the 50 best cities to live in Oregon for anyone who’s concerned about crime.
The locales we’ve selected are different in many ways, but they have one thing in common — they all provide their residents with a safe place to call home. If you’re a native Oregonian or a move here is on the agenda, our guide to the state’s safest cities should be at the top of your reading list.
Study Methodology
We analyzed the number of violent and property crimes that occurred per 1,000 inhabitants based on the FBI 2014 Uniform Crime Report. For violent crimes, we included:
- Murder
- Rape
- Robbery
- Aggravated assault
Property crime refers to:
- Burglary
- Larceny
- Motor vehicle theft
- Arson
Aside from the overall violent and property crime rates, we also considered the frequency of two specific crimes: robbery and burglary. These two crimes tend to occur more often, making them more of a concern for everyday citizens.
To formulate our final rankings, each city was assigned a CreditDonkey safety score, based on the violent and property crime rates as well as the robbery and burglary rates. A lower score indicates a better safety rating. We’ve ranked each city from 1 to 50 below, with Oregon’s safest city taking the top spot.
Safest Cities 2016: Rankings
1. Condon
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.0
Though small, Condon proves itself to be the undisputed king of our safest cities list with zero violent or property crimes reported for 2014. Amazing views of the Cascades, ample opportunities for hiking, boating, and fishing plus friendly neighbors make for a winning combination. Add in the safety factor, and you’ve got assurance that the local police department works diligently to preserve Condon’s simple and safe way of life.
2. Columbia City
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 4.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.2
Coming in a close second is Columbia City, whose motto hails it as a “City of Beauty and Livability.” Like Condon, Columbia City had zero violent crimes reported in 2014. In the property crime category, there were seven larcenies and two motor vehicle thefts on record. It’s one of only three cities that didn’t have any burglaries reported for the year.
Although a major highway passes through the center of Columbia City, most out-of-area travelers don't even realize they are passing through a small town when they travel through on Highway 30.
Our Police Department practices community-oriented policing - they even offer residents "Vacation/Premise Check" service - residents can request periodic drive-by visual checks or walk-around security checks when they leave town. Neighbors watch out for their neighborhoods and routinely report suspicious activity.
Leahnette Rivers, City Administrator/Recorder, City of Columbia City
Did you know:
Speaking on behalf of the police department we will remain committed to building and maintaining positive relationships throughout the community, we will continue to utilize the philosophy of community-oriented policing and its related problem solving strategies, and look forward to continued opportunities to improve our operations in any area which may arise. We will also continue to emphasize efforts in addressing developing crime trends, maintain our commitment to motor vehicle safety, and will continue to work with our citizens in ensuring compliance with our ordnances in order to address quality of life issues.
Michael McGlothin, Police Chief
3. Hubbard
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 4.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.5
The Hubbard Police Department’s mission is to maintain peace and enhance the safety of citizens. The city’s low crime rate suggests a job well done on both counts. The violent crime rate for 2014 was composed of a single rape and a single aggravated assault while the total number of property crimes came to 14.
4. Junction City
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 7.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.2
Junction City blends elements of rural and urban living. Though small, it offers many of the perks you’d find in a larger city. The historic downtown is ideal for an afternoon stroll, and you can cap the day off with dinner at one of the city’s unique restaurants. The Junction City Police Department’s Patrol Team is active 24/7 — good to know if you ever need to call on officers for help.
5. Scappoose
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 7.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.3
The city of Scappoose is proud to offer its residents an exceptionally safe environment for living, working, and playing. The police department is staffed full-time, and officers are supported in their efforts by citizen volunteers. Reserve officers and members of the Community Emergency Response Team are trained to assist the department in critical situations that threaten public safety.
6. West Linn
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 9.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.6
With more than 26,000 residents, West Linn is the largest Oregon city to earn a spot in our rankings thus far. It’s one of the southern Portland area’s busier suburbs, and it’s especially popular with young professionals and families. A minimal eight violent crimes occurred here in 2014, with no robberies or murders. The West Linn Police Department is deserving of praise for its devotion to keeping the city safe.
7. Gearhart
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 9.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.8
Gearhart is a quiet beach community, situated approximately halfway between Seaside and Surf Pines. Aside from the cool breezes and roar of the ocean, the 1,500 people who live here appreciate its overwhelming sense of safety. The Gearhart Police Department works hand-in-hand with citizens to make sure that doesn’t change.
8. Brookings
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 9.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.1
At the southern end of the Oregon coast is Brookings, a coastal town of approximately 6,400 people. Like some of the other cities on our list, Brookings emphasizes a community-policing stance in its approach to combatting crime. Citizens have opportunities to work in partnership with law enforcement through the police reserves and programs like Volunteer in Police Services.
9. Coquille
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 10.
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.7
The Coquille River winds through this city, giving local fishermen easy access to salmon and steelhead during the fall and winter months. In summer, the river is perfect for boating and kayaking. All year round, the Coquille Police Department is working hard behind and in front of the scenes to ensure that the city’s crime rate remains low.
10. Bandon
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 12.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.8
Bandon lies about 18 miles west of Coquille, at the spot where the Coquille River meets with the Pacific Ocean. One of the things the city is most notable for is its cranberry production, and it shows off its harvest treasures at the annual Cranberry Festival. The low crime rate is another reason to celebrate — we’d like to point out that Bandon didn’t report a single violent crime in 2014.
11. Yamhill
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 12.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.9
Yamhill is a small farming community in the heart of the Willamette Valley’s wine country region. It stands out in our rankings as another city to make it through 2014 without a single violent crime report. Just 13 property crimes were reported, including three burglaries. It’s an all-around great place to live if you want to experience a taste of Oregon in safety.
12. Sherwood
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.1
The city of Sherwood is part of the Tualatin Valley, and the nearby Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for animals — not criminals. The refuge and Sherwood itself also attract people who want to escape the hustle and bustle of nearby Portland. There are more than 19,000 residents in the city who can sleep soundly at night knowing they live in one of Oregon’s safest places.
13. Enterprise
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 13.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.1
Picturesque is an apt word to describe Enterprise. To the north is dense forestland while the south offers an unparalleled view of the Wallowa Mountains. Surrounding the city is a vast expanse of prairie land, and herds of grazing cattle are a regular sight. Another thing that remains constant is the low crime rate, with zero violent crimes and 25 property crimes reported in 2014.
Did you know:
Michele R. Young, City Administrator/Recorder, City of Enterprise
14. Lake Oswego
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 13.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.2
The city of Lake Oswego surrounds the lake of the same name, and the Willamette River borders the city to the east. Less than 10 miles south of Portland, it’s a thriving suburb of almost 38,000 people. The crime rate is lower than what you’d expect in a city of this size, with only 19 violent crimes reported in 2014. Four of those were robberies.
The most common mistake people in Lake Oswego make is assuming they won’t be a victim of a crime in such a safe community. So we really stress to people to not leave things of value in their vehicles unattended, garage doors open, house doors unlocked, etcetera. Educating the public has been affective as we still maintain a low, per capita, crime rate.
For people going on vacation, we recommend having someone they trust stay at their house or at least stop by frequently. People also have the option of making the police department aware of their absence.
Julia Warren, Administrative Assistant to the Chief, City of Lake Oswego - Police
15. North Plains
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 13.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.5
North Plains sits about 18 miles to the northwest of Portland, making it a pleasant place to settle down if you prefer living in a smaller city. The North Plains Police Department believes in citizen cooperation and works closely with residents to reduce crime and the fear of crime. In 2014, the department was successful in limiting the violent crime rate to three incidents and the number of property crimes to 28.
16. Coburg
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.6
Crime doesn’t happen often in Coburg, but when there’s an emergency, you can count on the police department to keep you informed. The Community Emergency Notification System sends out alerts when a crisis arises so you always know what to do. Officers constantly patrol the city to spot potentially dangerous situations that could endanger residents’ lives or property.
17. Jacksonville
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000:14.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.6
There’s always a good time to be had in the historic city of Jacksonville, which was founded on the heels of a gold rush in 1851. From skating at the park to movie nights with the mayor, it’s easy to stay entertained. Members of the Jacksonville Police Department regularly patrol the streets to ensure that all is quiet and peaceful.
18. Philomath
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.6
Philomath is nicknamed the City of Volunteers, and the people here are always willing to lend a hand. That includes members of the Philomath Police Department. If you’re headed out of town, for instance, the Vacation Watch program ensures that officers are keeping an eye on your home while you’re away.
19. Canby
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 15.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.7
Canby is “The Garden Spot,” and a warm, welcoming atmosphere is always in full bloom. Just shy of 17,000 people reside here and it’s the duty of the Canby Police Department to protect them from crime. Citizens are encouraged to be proactive about preventing crime themselves by reporting any suspicious activity to the department.
20. Kings City
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.8
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.8
Originally created as a planned community, King City is a modestly sized city of roughly 3,600 people living southwest of Portland. With five violent crimes and 52 property crimes reported in 2014, it easily landed a spot in our rankings. King City’s police department deserves a hand for its commitment to promoting safety through excellent service.
21. Aumsville
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 15.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.8
Part of the Salem metro area, Aumsville hosts one of the state’s most anticipated summer events — the annual Corn Festival. People come from far and wide to join in the fun, and the city’s police department is responsible for making sure residents and visitors alike stay safe. Their diligence helped to keep the number of violent crimes to a relatively low four in 2014.
22. Beaverton
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.9
With close to 95,000 residents, Beaverton has the second-highest population in our rankings. Its proximity to Portland makes it a natural fit for families and people who live in the metro area. Beaverton has all the features and amenities that are most desirable in a city of this size, including a highly skilled, professional police force that’s adept at preventing crime.
23. Hines
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.0
Slightly fewer than 1,500 people make their home in Hines, which stands out for its strong safety rating. Zero violent crimes were reported in 2014, which is an impressive feat. There were a low five burglaries included in the 25 property crimes recorded by members of the Hines Police Department.
24. Monmouth
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.3
Pride, progress, and friendly hometown values are the standard in Monmouth, which sits about 16 miles to the southwest of Salem. The population approaches 10,000, with new faces appearing on the scene all the time. The low crime rate is one of many things that draws them in, and Monmouth’s police department plays an important part in enhancing the quality of life.
25. Lakeview
- Violent crime per 1,000: 3.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.4
Lakeview began as a center for commercial ranching activity, and agriculture and the timber industry remain prominent in the local economy. Tourism is also big business as visitors pass through town on their way to Goose Lake and the Fremont National Forest. Fishing, bird watching, hang gliding, and hiking are some of the activities you can pursue in safety.
26. Boardman
- Violent crime per 1,000: 3.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.6
- Property crime per 1,000: 15.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.5
Boardman lies along the Columbia River, where residents can carry out some of their favorite pastimes — kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. The city’s superior reputation for safety is a direct result of the effort put forth by the Boardman Police Department. Once a year, the appreciation pours through: The Boardman Five-O 5K is an opportunity for citizens to show their support for the department’s reserve and volunteer members.
27. Turner
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 20.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.8
Known as “The Good Neighbor Town,” Turner is the obvious choice if you want to be surrounded by friendly, helpful people. It’s located less than 10 miles from Salem, which is convenient for commuters. Better yet, crime is practically nonexistent, with just one violent crime and 38 property crimes reported in 2014.
28. Vernonia
- Violent crime per 1,000: 5.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.0
Logging and the timber industry are the linchpins of Vernonia’s economy, and they also have an influence on the city’s culture. It’s been featured in the History Channel show “Ax Men,” which has earned it something of a celebrity status. We think Vernonia also deserves special recognition for its low crime rate.
29. Rogue River
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 21.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.2
As the name suggests, the city of Rogue River is named for the waterway it straddles, but there’s certainly nothing roguish about the people who live here. Not a single violent crime was reported in 2014, and property crime reports totaled 46. Of that number, eight of the reported incidents involved a burglary.
30. Gold Beach
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 21.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.2
Gold Beach is located at the mouth of the Rogue River, where it flows into the Pacific. It ranks as an exceedingly safe place to live, thanks to the Gold Beach Police Department. The full-time staff is supplemented by volunteers, including Community Service Officers, who assist with traffic control and home security checks for residents who are away on vacation.
31. Keizer
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 21.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.3
If you ask residents what most accurately symbolizes Keizer, irises are likely to be the answer. The city is home to one of the country’s largest commercial iris growers, and the annual Iris Festival puts the spotlight on the local flower industry. While the festival is a major event, it doesn’t outshine the fact that Keizer is one of Oregon’s safest cities.
32. Independence
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.5
- Property crime per 1,000: 21.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.5
Independence is just a stone’s throw from Monmouth and crime-wise, the two cities are fairly similar. There were 19 violent crimes and 187 property crimes reported in 2014. There were four robberies and 15 burglaries included in those figures, and the Independence police department works hard keep those numbers low.
33. Oregon City
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 23.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.7
Oregon City is known as the first incorporated city west of the Rockies and the mothertown of the Beaver State. Its rich heritage is something residents take great pride in, as is the city’s modest crime rate. A new modern police headquarters is currently in development as part of a citywide plan to advance public safety.
34. Hillsboro
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.6
- Property crime per 1,000: 22.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.8
Once a largely agricultural area, Hillsboro has become a major tech hub, and the booming local economy attracts lots of job seekers. The population is growing at a steady clip, ready to surpass 99,000 people. While that makes the task of preventing crime more challenging, it hasn’t made the city any less safe.
35. Mount Angel
- Violent crime per 1,000: 4.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 21.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.2
The Mount Angel Oktoberfest celebration is one of the largest festivals in the Pacific Northwest, and hundreds of thousands of people pour into the area each year for this special event. Mount Angel’s police department relies on its full-time and reserve officers to keep the peace. If the city’s crime rate is any indication, they’re doing a superb job.
36. John Day
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 22.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 5.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.2
John Day’s natural surroundings are a big part of its appeal, but the low crime rate isn’t to be overlooked. One aggravated assault constituted the entire violent crime rate for 2014, and there were 38 property crimes. Ten of those were burglaries, which is comforting if you’re worried about your home getting targeted by criminals.
37. Milwaukie
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 22.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.2
Known as the birthplace of the Bing cherry, Milwaukie is a family-friendly suburb of Portland that’s also a hit with retirees. Milwaukie’s police department takes every possible measure to reduce and prevent crime, and citizen participation is always welcome. The Police Cadet Program and Citizen Police Academy are two different ways to aid local law enforcement.
38. Phoenix
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 22.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 5.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.3
When you think of Phoenix, you probably think of a hot desert landscape, but this Oregon city proves to be very different. Dense forest and rambling mountain ranges dominate the view, and there’s a relaxed vibe that residents seem to like. They also enjoy how infrequent crime is, with only one robbery and 25 burglaries reported in 2014.
39. Talent
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 24.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.4
Talent’s police department has a definite knack for making residents feel secure; the city’s crime rate is evidence of the good work officers are doing. Just 12 violent crimes were reported in 2014, which didn’t include any robberies or murders. Property crime was more common, but burglaries accounted for less than 15% of all incidents reported.
40. Gaston
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 28.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.5
With fewer than 700 residents, Gaston is undoubtedly the smallest city to be featured in our rankings. That works in its favor where crime is concerned. The total number of crimes reported here in 2014 came to 20, with only one violent crime included in that figure. Gaston’s adult and youth residents are invited to be a part of the Citizens’ Police Academy, which offers insight into how the city’s police department works.
41. Dallas
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 25.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.6
From bird watching to wine tasting, Dallas has something to suit just about every interest. The city’s motto, “Commitment to Community—People Serving People,” accurately sums up what life here is all about. The Dallas Police Department certainly takes those words to heart when it comes to safeguarding the public, and that’s reflected in the low crime rate.
42. Bend
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 26.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.7
More than 82,000 people live in Bend, making it the largest city in the central Oregon region. It’s in a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts who like hiking, biking, skiing, and white water rafting, all of which bring in a steady flow of tourists. It’s the Bend Police Department’s responsibility to ensure that residents and visitors are staying safe at all times.
43. Silverton
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 23.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 5.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.7
Silverton is perhaps best known for being the home of the Oregon Garden, a sprawling botanical garden that also happens to be the site of the only Frank Lloyd Wright home in the state. Crime doesn’t detract from the city’s natural beauty, and it’s a great place to live even if your thumb isn’t that green.
44. Banks
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 1.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 22.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 6.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.7
The Washington County Sheriff’s office provides law enforcement services to the city of Banks, which is located about 25 miles northwest of Portland. Deputies are always quick to respond, both to emergency and non-emergency situations, but thankfully, crime isn’t something they deal with too often. Two violent crimes and 42 property crimes were reported in Banks in 2014.
45. Gervais
- Violent crime per 1,000: 4.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.8
- Property crime per 1,000: 20.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 5.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.8
Gervais is just a short drive from Salem, but it’s such a delightful city that you won’t want to stray too far from home. The low crime rate enhances its livability, and the police department actively collaborates with citizens to promote safety. Gervais saw two robberies and 15 burglaries reported in 2014, with a total 63 crime reports altogether.
46. Sutherlin
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 25.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.8
The Sutherlin Police Department prides itself on delivering superior service to the city’s residents, and that shows through in everything its members do. In addition to handling crime reports, officers can also be called upon to keep an eye on your home while you’re away or address concerns over litter on the city’s streets. That attention to small details is part of what makes Sutherlin such an agreeable place to be.
47. Central Point
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 26.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.9
Central Point’s police department is also willing to go the extra mile to keep residents safe. The Guardian Angel program provides wellness checks to the city’s older citizens, while D.A.R.E. officers work with local schools to educate youth about drugs and alcohol. Volunteers are an important part of what the department does, and locals are always urged to donate their time.
48. La Grande
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 24.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 5.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 8.0
La Grande is where you’ll find East Oregon University, but it’s far from your typical college town. More than 13,000 people live in the area, including families that are drawn in by the city’s highly rated schools and moderately priced housing. La Grande must also be recognized for having a stellar safety rating and a police department that’s committed to maintaining it.
49. Tigard
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.9
- Property crime per 1,000: 26.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 8.0
Tigard is a hive of activity with more than 51,000 residents, many of whom work in nearby Portland. The city features a number of diverse neighborhoods, so you have a variety of choices when searching for a place to hang your hat. If you’re curious about which parts of the city are safest, the Tigard Police Department is always standing by to answer any questions you may have about crime.
50. Molalla
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 26.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 8.1
Last but certainly not least is Molalla, a small town of around 8,300 residents. In terms of violent crime, it’s on par with some of the cities included in our top 10. There were seven violent crimes reported in 2014, with zero robberies or murders. Property crime was more frequent, but the number of burglaries was limited to 37.
Did you know:
- We have recently added to the size of our police department by adding the first new officer position in many years.
- We are currently crafting several new neighborhood livability ordinances to address concerns of our citizens.
- We are bringing back National Night Out to help improve awareness and community involvement.
- We are expanding our social media efforts as well to get more citizens involved in Neighborhood Watch type activities and actions
- We are working on a pilot program blending targeted enforcement with highly visible and positive community contacts in problem areas.
These are just some of the steps we are taking to improve our already very safe community.
Chief Rod Lucich, Molalla
Conclusion
The 50 cities included in our rankings are the hands-down safest places to be in Oregon. If your hometown is included in our list, that’s likely to be reassuring if you’re concerned about crime. To learn more about safety and crime prevention, take a look at CreditDonkey’s essential home security tips.
The Top 50 Safest Cities in Oregon
| Rank | City | Population | Total # of Violent Crimes1 | Total # of Property Crimes2 | Violent Crime Per 1,000 | Robbery Per 1,000 | Property Crime Per 1,000 | Burglary Per 1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Condon | 716 | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
| 2 | Columbia City | 1,955 | 0 | 9 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 4.6 | 0.0 |
| 3 | Hubbard | 3,202 | 2 | 14 | 0.6 | 0.0 | 4.4 | 0.9 |
| 4 | Junction City | 5,717 | 1 | 42 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 7.3 | 1.2 |
| 5 | Scappoose | 6,827 | 5 | 52 | 0.7 | 0.0 | 7.6 | 0.9 |
| 6 | West Linn | 26,202 | 8 | 252 | 0.3 | 0.0 | 9.6 | 0.6 |
| 7 | Gearhart | 1,494 | 1 | 14 | 0.7 | 0.0 | 9.4 | 1.3 |
| 8 | Brookings | 6,386 | 6 | 60 | 0.9 | 0.3 | 9.4 | 1.6 |
| 9 | Coquille | 3,809 | 6 | 38 | 1.6 | 0.0 | 10.0 | 3.2 |
| 10 | Bandon | 3,055 | 0 | 38 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 12.4 | 2.6 |
| 11 | Yamhill | 1,027 | 0 | 13 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 12.7 | 2.9 |
| 12 | Sherwood | 19,035 | 6 | 280 | 0.3 | 0.1 | 14.7 | 1.3 |
| 13 | Enterprise | 1,869 | 0 | 25 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 13.4 | 3.2 |
| 14 | Lake Oswego | 37,836 | 19 | 516 | 0.5 | 0.1 | 13.6 | 2.7 |
| 15 | North Plains | 2,049 | 3 | 28 | 1.5 | 0.0 | 13.7 | 2.9 |
| 16 | Coburg | 1,038 | 0 | 17 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 16.4 | 1.9 |
| 17 | Jacksonville | 2,823 | 0 | 42 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 14.9 | 3.5 |
| 18 | Philomath | 4,572 | 1 | 74 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 16.2 | 2.0 |
| 19 | Canby | 16,915 | 16 | 263 | 0.9 | 0.2 | 15.5 | 2.0 |
| 20 | King City | 3,601 | 5 | 52 | 1.4 | 0.8 | 14.4 | 2.5 |
| 21 | Aumsville | 3,866 | 4 | 60 | 1.0 | 0.0 | 15.5 | 2.8 |
| 22 | Beaverton | 94,416 | 127 | 1521 | 1.3 | 0.4 | 16.1 | 1.8 |
| 23 | Hines | 1,497 | 0 | 25 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 16.7 | 3.3 |
| 24 | Monmouth | 9,997 | 11 | 169 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 16.9 | 3.0 |
| 25 | Lakeview | 2,286 | 8 | 33 | 3.5 | 0.4 | 14.4 | 3.1 |
| 26 | Boardman | 3,416 | 11 | 53 | 3.2 | 0.6 | 15.5 | 2.6 |
| 27 | Turner | 1,902 | 1 | 38 | 0.5 | 0.0 | 20.0 | 2.6 |
| 28 | Vernonia | 2,157 | 12 | 36 | 5.6 | 0.0 | 16.7 | 1.9 |
| 29 | Rogue River | 2,187 | 0 | 46 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 21.0 | 3.7 |
| 30 | Gold Beach | 2,257 | 1 | 49 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 21.7 | 2.7 |
| 31 | Keizer | 37,189 | 65 | 785 | 1.7 | 0.2 | 21.1 | 2.4 |
| 32 | Independence | 8,672 | 19 | 187 | 2.2 | 0.5 | 21.6 | 1.7 |
| 33 | Oregon City | 35,112 | 30 | 814 | 0.9 | 0.2 | 23.2 | 2.6 |
| 34 | Hillsboro | 98,635 | 186 | 2205 | 1.9 | 0.6 | 22.4 | 2.5 |
| 35 | Mount Angel | 3,411 | 16 | 74 | 4.7 | 0.0 | 21.7 | 2.3 |
| 36 | John Day | 1,697 | 1 | 38 | 0.6 | 0.0 | 22.4 | 5.9 |
| 37 | Milwaukie | 20,562 | 51 | 462 | 2.5 | 0.4 | 22.5 | 3.6 |
| 38 | Phoenix | 4,619 | 4 | 104 | 0.9 | 0.2 | 22.5 | 5.4 |
| 39 | Talent | 6,262 | 12 | 153 | 1.9 | 0.0 | 24.4 | 3.2 |
| 40 | Gaston | 669 | 1 | 19 | 1.5 | 0.0 | 28.4 | 0.0 |
| 41 | Dallas | 14,852 | 26 | 381 | 1.8 | 0.2 | 25.7 | 3.0 |
| 42 | Bend | 82,418 | 114 | 2140 | 1.4 | 0.3 | 26.0 | 3.1 |
| 43 | Silverton | 9,403 | 16 | 222 | 1.7 | 0.1 | 23.6 | 5.3 |
| 44 | Banks | 1,880 | 2 | 42 | 1.1 | 1.1 | 22.3 | 6.4 |
| 45 | Gervais | 2,569 | 11 | 52 | 4.3 | 0.8 | 20.2 | 5.8 |
| 46 | Sutherlin | 7,729 | 18 | 195 | 2.3 | 0.4 | 25.2 | 3.4 |
| 47 | Central Point | 17,705 | 28 | 472 | 1.6 | 0.2 | 26.7 | 3.1 |
| 48 | La Grande | 13,070 | 15 | 326 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 24.9 | 5.7 |
| 49 | Tigard | 51,024 | 76 | 1369 | 1.5 | 0.9 | 26.8 | 2.8 |
| 50 | Molalla | 8,350 | 7 | 225 | 0.8 | 0.0 | 26.9 | 4.4 |
2Property crime includes burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
Rebecca Lake is a journalist at CreditDonkey, a home security comparison and reviews website. Write to Rebecca Lake at rebecca@creditdonkey.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for our latest posts.
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