Dickinson, ND Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Dickinson, ND

What is Dickinson's overall crime grade, and how does it compare nationally?

Dickinson earns an overall crime grade of A, placing it among the safest small cities in the United States. With a population of approximately 22,880 and a population density of just 624 residents per square mile, the city benefits from a tight-knit community structure that supports lower crime rates. The unemployment rate sits at a remarkably low 2.8%, and the median household income of $66,306 reflects a stable local economy — both factors that research consistently links to reduced crime activity. For context, many similarly sized American cities carry crime grades of C or lower, making Dickinson's A rating a meaningful distinction for residents and prospective newcomers.

What types of crimes are most commonly reported in Dickinson?

Like most small North Dakota cities, Dickinson's reported incidents skew heavily toward property crimes rather than violent offenses. Theft-related incidents — including vehicle break-ins and shoplifting — represent the most frequently logged category across the city's crime map. Vandalism and minor disturbances are also reported periodically, particularly in higher-traffic commercial corridors. Violent crimes such as aggravated assault occur at rates well below national averages, consistent with Dickinson's A-level safety grade. Drug-related offenses have drawn attention from local law enforcement, though the city's low poverty rate of 11.9% helps limit the economic pressures that often drive substance-related crime in other communities.

Which neighborhoods in Dickinson tend to have the lowest crime activity?

While granular block-by-block data varies over time, residential areas near Dickinson State University and established subdivisions such as Fairway Estates are consistently associated with lower reported incident rates. The West River corridor and family-oriented neighborhoods on the city's outskirts tend to attract residents seeking quieter, lower-density environments — factors that correlate with reduced property crime exposure. Downtown Dickinson sees more foot traffic and commercial activity, which can elevate the frequency of minor incidents like theft, but it also benefits from higher police visibility. Using the interactive crime map on this page, you can filter by incident type and time period to compare activity levels across specific areas.

Is Dickinson a safe place to live in 2026?

By virtually every measurable indicator, yes — Dickinson is a safe place to live in 2026. The city's A crime grade reflects sustained low crime rates relative to both state and national benchmarks. The local economy remains robust, with unemployment at just 2.8% and a median home value of $237,691, signaling a stable housing market that attracts long-term residents rather than high-turnover populations. The median rent of $904 keeps housing accessible, reducing financial stress for working families. These socioeconomic conditions, combined with active community policing efforts, contribute to an environment where the vast majority of residents report feeling safe in their neighborhoods on a day-to-day basis.

How does Dickinson's poverty rate affect its crime levels?

Dickinson's poverty rate of 11.9% is a relevant data point when assessing crime risk, as poverty and crime rates are statistically correlated across U.S. cities. However, Dickinson's overall crime grade of A demonstrates that the city manages this challenge effectively. The low unemployment rate of 2.8% means that most residents who want work can find it — limiting the economic desperation that often fuels property crime in communities with higher joblessness. The median household income of $66,306 also suggests that income inequality is relatively contained, which supports community cohesion. Together, these factors help explain why Dickinson outperforms many peer cities despite a poverty rate that is not unusually low by national standards.

How can I stay updated on crime activity in Dickinson?

The most effective approach combines several sources. The Dickinson Police Department publishes incident reports and community alerts through its official Facebook page, which is updated regularly. Third-party platforms such as CrimeMapping.com and SpotCrime aggregate local law enforcement data into visual, filterable maps. The crime map on this page also provides an accessible overview of recent activity across Dickinson's neighborhoods. For residents in areas like Fairway Estates or near Dickinson State University, signing up for neighborhood watch communications can provide an additional layer of hyperlocal awareness. Consistent engagement with these tools is the best way to stay ahead of emerging trends in any part of the city.