Stoughton, WI Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Stoughton, WI Crime

Is Stoughton, WI safe?

Yes — Stoughton earns an A+ overall crime grade, placing it among the safest communities in Wisconsin. With a population of approximately 13,146 and a population density of just 843 residents per square mile, the city maintains a manageable, close-knit environment that supports low crime levels. The unemployment rate sits at a remarkably low 1.8% and the poverty rate is only 6.1% — both figures strongly associated with reduced crime risk. Residents regularly enjoy downtown areas, Stoughton Memorial Park, and neighborhood streets with a high degree of confidence in their personal safety.

What is the crime rate in Stoughton, WI?

Stoughton's crime rate is exceptionally low relative to national and state benchmarks, reflected in its A+ overall crime grade. The city's socioeconomic profile reinforces this: a median household income of $65,878, a poverty rate of just 6.1%, and near-full employment at a 1.8% unemployment rate all correlate with fewer property and violent crime incidents. Communities with these characteristics typically see property crime rates well below the national average and violent crime rates that are a fraction of what larger urban centers experience. Stoughton is consistent with that pattern, making it a statistical outlier in a positive sense.

What types of crime are most common in Stoughton?

In a community with an A+ crime grade like Stoughton, the incident mix skews heavily toward minor, non-violent offenses. Where crimes do occur, property-related incidents — such as minor theft, vandalism, or vehicle break-ins — tend to represent the largest share, as is typical in low-crime Wisconsin towns of comparable size. Violent crimes such as assault or robbery account for a very small fraction of total incidents. The city's low population density of 843 people per square mile and strong median income of $65,878 limit the environmental conditions that typically drive higher crime concentrations. Residents near the downtown historic district and areas around Stoughton High School report particularly quiet conditions.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Stoughton?

Given Stoughton's A+ overall crime grade, the city as a whole performs at an elite safety level. Neighborhoods near the downtown historic district along Main Street benefit from high foot traffic, active community events, and strong social cohesion — all factors that research links to lower crime rates. Residential areas near Stoughton High School are consistently regarded as family-friendly and quiet. The East Side and Glen Oaks areas also carry reputations for low incident rates and community-oriented living. With a citywide median home value of $223,104 and median rent of $933, housing across most of Stoughton's neighborhoods reflects stable, well-maintained communities where crime is the exception rather than the rule.

Is Stoughton a good place to live in 2026?

By nearly every measurable indicator, Stoughton ranks as an excellent place to live in 2026. The city holds an A+ crime grade, signaling top-tier public safety. Economically, a median household income of $65,878, an unemployment rate of just 1.8%, and a poverty rate of 6.1% — well below the national average of roughly 12–13% — point to a financially stable and resilient community. Housing remains accessible, with a median home value of $223,104 and median rent of $933, both competitive for a community in the greater Madison metro area. Combined with Stoughton's rich Norwegian heritage, vibrant local events, and scenic parks, these data points make a compelling case for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

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

Stoughton's A+ crime grade puts it at the top tier of Wisconsin municipalities. For context, many mid-sized Wisconsin cities carry crime grades in the C to B range, and larger urban centers often score in the D to F range for certain crime categories. Stoughton's combination of low unemployment (1.8%), low poverty (6.1%), moderate population density (843 per sq mi), and a stable median income ($65,878) creates conditions that consistently produce lower-than-average crime rates. Compared to similarly sized Wisconsin towns, Stoughton performs at or near the top across both property and violent crime metrics.

How can I stay updated on crime in Stoughton?

The most reliable ways to monitor crime activity in Stoughton include checking the Stoughton Police Department's official website for incident reports and public safety announcements, and using third-party platforms like CrimeMapping.com or SpotCrime for interactive, map-based views of recent incidents. Signing up for community alert systems and participating in neighborhood watch programs — particularly in areas like the East Side or downtown corridor — adds another layer of real-time awareness. Given Stoughton's A+ crime grade, these tools primarily serve as confirmation of the city's safety rather than urgent warning systems, but staying informed is always a smart practice regardless of how safe a community is.