Spencer, IA Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Spencer, IA

What is Spencer's overall crime grade?

Spencer, Iowa earns an overall crime grade of A- for 2026, placing it among the safer small cities in the Midwest. This grade reflects crime rates that are meaningfully below national averages, particularly impressive given that Spencer's unemployment rate sits at 5.7% and its poverty rate is 12.3% — both of which are factors that can correlate with higher crime in other communities. With a population of approximately 11,038 and a population density of just 389 residents per square mile, Spencer's relatively low density contributes to its strong safety profile. The A- grade signals a very safe environment, with only minor concerns keeping it from a perfect score.

Is Spencer, Iowa a safe place to live?

By nearly every measurable standard, Spencer is a safe city. Its A- overall crime grade puts it well ahead of many Iowa communities and the national baseline. Property crime — including burglary and vehicle theft — accounts for the largest share of reported incidents, as is typical in small Midwestern cities, while violent crime rates remain low. Neighborhoods near the downtown district and around the Spencer Municipal Golf Course consistently see fewer reported incidents. Families, retirees, and young professionals tend to feel comfortable throughout most of the city. Spencer's median household income of $45,224 and median home value of $134,471 reflect a stable, working-class community where economic stress is present but not extreme, helping keep crime rates in check.

How does Spencer's crime rate compare to national averages?

Spencer's A- crime grade indicates that its crime rates fall significantly below the national average across most categories. In the United States, the average city scores closer to a C on comparative crime indices; Spencer's A- represents a substantial improvement over that benchmark. Property crimes — the most common category in Spencer — occur at a rate well under what you'd expect for a city with a 12.3% poverty rate and 5.7% unemployment. Violent crimes are comparatively rare. For context, cities of similar population size (around 10,000–12,000 residents) nationally average crime grades in the C+ to B range, making Spencer's A- a standout result for northwest Iowa.

What types of crime are most common in Spencer?

Like most small Iowa cities, Spencer's reported incidents skew heavily toward property crimes rather than violent offenses. The most frequently reported categories include petty theft, motor vehicle theft, and vandalism. Burglary and larceny incidents tend to cluster around commercial corridors and parking areas, while residential neighborhoods — particularly those near North 15th Avenue and West Moore Street — report relatively few incidents. Assault and other violent crimes represent a much smaller share of total reports and occur at rates consistent with Spencer's A- safety grade. Disturbances and minor drug-related incidents make up a secondary tier of reported activity but do not significantly impact the city's overall grade.

Which neighborhoods in Spencer are considered safest?

While hyperlocal block-by-block data varies over time, several areas in Spencer consistently show lower incident concentrations on the city's crime map. Residential zones near the Spencer Municipal Golf Course, parts of North 15th Avenue, and neighborhoods adjacent to the downtown district are frequently cited as among the quieter parts of the city. Areas near the Spencer YMCA and the suburban stretches along West Moore Street also tend to have strong community engagement and well-maintained housing stock — both factors associated with lower crime. Spencer's overall A- grade means that even its more active areas for incidents remain relatively safe by state and national comparisons.

Is Spencer a good place to buy a home from a safety perspective?

Spencer's A- crime grade makes it an attractive option for homebuyers who prioritize safety. With a median home value of just $134,471 and a median rent of $693, buyers get strong affordability alongside a high safety rating — a combination that's increasingly rare. The city's low population density of 389 people per square mile means less urban congestion and the community dynamics that often accompany higher crime. A household income of $45,224 aligns reasonably with housing costs, keeping financial stress — a known driver of property crime — relatively contained. For families evaluating long-term safety alongside investment value, Spencer's crime profile and housing economics present a compelling case.