Neenah, WI Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Neenah, WI

Is Neenah, WI safe?

Yes — Neenah earns an overall crime grade of A, placing it among the safer small cities in Wisconsin. With a population of roughly 26,083 and a population density of about 1,074 residents per square mile, the city maintains a community scale that supports effective neighborhood-level policing. Violent crime incidents are notably low relative to comparable Midwestern cities, and property crime rates are well below national averages. Areas near Downtown Neenah, the Lake Winnebago shoreline, and the West Neenah residential corridors consistently see minimal reported incidents. That A-grade reflects not just raw incident counts but the city's low unemployment rate of 3.3% and active community engagement — both of which are strongly correlated with sustained public safety.

What is the crime rate in Neenah, WI?

Neenah's overall crime grade is A, meaning its crime rate is significantly lower than the national average across both violent and property crime categories. To put that in context, cities earning an A grade typically experience crime rates that rank in roughly the top 10–20% safest communities nationwide. With a median household income of $59,778 and an unemployment rate of just 3.3%, Neenah's socioeconomic profile supports these low crime figures — research consistently links stable employment and moderate income levels to reduced criminal activity. The city's 11.8% poverty rate, while worth monitoring, has not translated into elevated crime, a testament to local intervention programs and community cohesion. Property crimes such as vehicle break-ins and petty theft represent the most frequently reported incident types, while violent offenses remain rare.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Neenah?

Neenah's A-grade safety profile is broadly distributed across the city rather than concentrated in one pocket. Neighborhoods near Lake Winnebago and the West Neenah residential areas are consistently regarded as among the quietest, benefiting from low-density housing, strong homeownership rates, and active neighborhood watch participation. The Downtown Neenah district, anchored by the riverfront and local commercial activity, sees the typical minor property incidents common to any commercial corridor but remains well-patrolled and pedestrian-friendly. Areas near Neenah High School and the Riverview corridor are also well-regarded for family safety. Because Neenah's overall grade is A, the variance between its safest and least-safe blocks is narrow compared to larger cities — no single neighborhood stands out as a significant outlier.

How does Neenah's crime compare to other Wisconsin cities?

Neenah's A crime grade positions it favorably against most Wisconsin municipalities. Larger cities in the state with populations above 50,000 frequently earn B or C grades due to higher concentrations of property crime and, in some cases, elevated violent crime rates. Neenah's combination of a modest population (26,083), low unemployment (3.3%), affordable median rent ($762/month), and a median home value of $144,267 creates a stable housing environment — factors that directly suppress displacement-driven crime. Among Fox Valley communities, Neenah's safety metrics compare well, making it a strong choice for families and professionals weighing relocation within the region.

Is Neenah a good place to live in 2026?

By nearly every measurable indicator, yes. Neenah's A overall crime grade is the headline safety figure, but it's reinforced by a well-rounded socioeconomic profile: a median household income of $59,778, a median home value of $144,267 (well below the national median, meaning strong affordability), a median rent of just $762/month, and an unemployment rate of 3.3% — all of which outperform many comparably sized U.S. cities. The 11.8% poverty rate is the one metric worth watching, as concentrated poverty can create localized safety pressures over time, but current crime data shows no meaningful impact on the city's A-grade standing. Residents enjoy access to Lake Winnebago, a walkable downtown, and a population density (1,074/sq mi) that fosters community without the congestion of larger metros. For families, retirees, and remote workers seeking a safe, affordable Midwestern city, Neenah's 2026 data makes a compelling case.