Barnstable, MA Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Barnstable, MA

What is Barnstable's overall crime grade?

Barnstable earns an overall crime grade of B for 2026, placing it among the safer communities in Massachusetts. This grade reflects a combination of relatively low violent crime incidence and manageable property crime levels across the town's villages. For context, a B grade means Barnstable outperforms a majority of similarly sized U.S. towns. Contributing factors include a low unemployment rate of 3.4%, a median household income of $77,227, and a poverty rate of just 8.7% — all of which correlate strongly with lower crime environments. Residents can feel confident that Barnstable's safety profile compares favorably to many Cape Cod and broader Massachusetts communities.

Is Barnstable safe to live in or visit?

Yes — with a crime grade of B, Barnstable is considered a safe town by most measures. The population of approximately 44,497 is spread across a low-density landscape of roughly 286 people per square mile, which naturally limits the concentration of criminal activity. Property crimes such as theft and vandalism represent the most commonly reported incident types, while violent crimes remain comparatively rare. Villages like Osterville, Centerville, and West Barnstable are frequently cited by residents as among the quieter, lower-crime areas. Tourists visiting Barnstable's beaches and historic districts can generally do so with confidence, though standard precautions — securing valuables, staying aware of surroundings at night — are always advisable.

What types of crime are most common in Barnstable?

Property crime dominates Barnstable's incident reports, consistent with the town's B overall crime grade. Theft, larceny, and vehicle break-ins account for the largest share of reported offenses, particularly in higher-traffic areas like Hyannis, which serves as the commercial and transportation hub of the region. Vandalism and minor disturbances also appear regularly in crime data. Violent crimes — including assault and robbery — occur at significantly lower rates and tend to be isolated rather than part of broader patterns. The town's median home value of $403,338 and median rent of $1,446 reflect a stable housing market that generally correlates with lower crime pressure across residential neighborhoods like Barnstable Village and Marstons Mills.

Which neighborhoods in Barnstable have the lowest crime?

While granular block-level crime grades vary, several of Barnstable's villages consistently rank among the safer areas based on reported incident density. Osterville and West Barnstable are known for their low population density and minimal commercial foot traffic, factors that tend to suppress both property and violent crime. Centerville and Cotuit similarly benefit from established residential character and active community engagement. Hyannis, as the most urbanized village, sees a higher share of reported incidents relative to the rest of the town — a pattern common in commercial centers — though it still falls within Barnstable's overall B-grade safety profile. Using the Barnstable crime map to filter by neighborhood and incident type gives the clearest picture of localized risk.

How does Barnstable's crime rate compare to the rest of Massachusetts?

Barnstable's B crime grade positions it favorably within Massachusetts. The town's 3.4% unemployment rate sits well below the national average, and its 8.7% poverty rate is modest — both indicators that research consistently links to lower crime rates. With a population of 44,497 and a density of only 286 people per square mile, Barnstable avoids the crime pressures typical of densely populated urban centers. Compared to larger Massachusetts cities, Barnstable's property crime rate is meaningfully lower, and its violent crime rate is a fraction of what residents in higher-density metros experience. The town's economic stability — anchored by a $77,227 median household income — further reinforces its above-average safety standing statewide.

Is Barnstable a good place to raise a family?

By the numbers, Barnstable checks many of the boxes families prioritize. The B overall crime grade signals a safe environment, and the town's low population density means children and families are not navigating high-congestion, high-crime urban corridors. The $403,338 median home value reflects demand for the area's quality of life, while the $77,227 median household income suggests a community with economic stability. Villages like Centerville, Osterville, and Barnstable Village are particularly popular with families for their neighborhood feel, proximity to Cape Cod's natural amenities, and lower incident rates. The town's 8.7% poverty rate and 3.4% unemployment rate round out a socioeconomic picture that supports sustained safety and community well-being for families considering a move to Cape Cod.