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Is Westlake, Ohio Safe City to Live?
11-28-2024 | Armbruster

Is Westlake, Ohio Safe City to Live?

Westlake is a great place to live! For a complete answer, it’s essential to look at community safety measures, including local programs and resident resources.  Suppose you don’t have time to sift through government data, check out sections on crime rates and statistics, safety services, police programs, and the pros and cons of living here.  Our team covered everything—from crime data and police efforts to insights on daily life—so you can determine whether Westlake, Ohio, is a safe city.

Westlake, Ohio Crime Rates

Westlake consistently ranks as one of Ohio's safer cities, with crime rates well below state and national averages. According to recent data, the overall crime rate in Westlake is about 5 per 1,000 residents, positioning it in the top 25% of safest cities in the United States.
  • Violent Crime: Westlake has a violent crime rate of 0.47 per 1,000 residents, meaning there’s only a 1 in 2,119 chance of experiencing a violent crime, much lower than Ohio’s state average of 1 in 341.
  • Property Crime: Property-related incidents, like theft and burglary, occur at about 4.36 per 1,000 residents, compared to Ohio’s average of 1 in 56, giving Westlake residents a notably lower risk.
Westlake’s neighborhoods, such as Dover and Hilliard, are known for their low crime rates and family-friendly environment.  Areas around Crocker Park may experience slightly higher property crime rates due to busy commercial activity, but overall, Westlake’s crime trends remain stable, reinforcing its reputation as a safe place to live.

Is Westlake, Ohio Safe?

Westlake goes beyond traditional policing to ensure community safety. Here’s how the city prioritizes safety across various programs and resources:

Local Safety Programs

The Westlake Police Department actively engages the community through multiple initiatives:
  • Regular Patrols: Officers conduct routine patrols in residential areas and commercial zones to deter and reduce criminal activity.
  • Neighborhood Watch Programs: Residents are encouraged to monitor their neighborhoods and report suspicious activity, fostering a proactive safety culture.
  • Community Engagement Events: Events like “Coffee with a Cop” promote open communication, allowing residents to connect with officers and discuss community concerns in a relaxed setting.

High Police Visibility

Police officers maintain a strong presence across Westlake, especially in high-traffic areas like Crocker Park and main shopping districts. This visibility deters crime and reassures residents of their safety.

Resident Resources

Westlake provides several tools to keep residents informed and involved in community safety:
  • Crime Tracking Apps: Real-time updates on local incidents keep everyone informed and aware.
  • Safety Workshops: The city hosts sessions on emergency preparedness, empowering residents with practical safety skills.
  • Neighborhood Meetings: These gatherings offer residents a chance to discuss safety concerns directly with local authorities.
  • “Safe Home” Program: Through this program, residents can work with police on personalized home security assessments, receiving tailored tips to enhance their home safety.
These combined efforts create a strong support network in Westlake, where law enforcement and residents work together to maintain a safe, connected community.

Is Westlake, Ohio a Good Place to Live?

Absolutely! Here's how safety influences day-to-day living in Westlake:

Family-Friendly Environment

Low crime rates allow families to feel safe letting their children play outdoors, and the city's secure environment benefits schools, improving the quality of education and peace for parents.
  • Recreational Opportunities: Thanks to the city's safety measures, residents enjoy well-maintained parks, like Clague Park and Bradley Woods Reservation, which are safe spaces for outdoor activities, community events, and festivals.
  • Positive Impact on Property Values: Homes in Westlake retain value due to the city's safety, making it an appealing location for buyers and renters and supporting a strong housing market.
  • Access to Quality Amenities: Westlake's healthcare facilities, including University Hospitals St. John Medical Center, provide reliable care in a safe environment, and the city offers senior-friendly services that make it an ideal choice for retirees.

Pros and Cons of Living in Westlake

Westlake is a safe, convenient, and welcoming place to live. However, like any place, Westlake has its downsides.

Pros

Westlake's low crime rates and active community safety programs make it a secure choice. The city is family- and senior-friendly, with top-rated schools, quality healthcare, and a short commute to Cleveland.  Additionally, Community events, like block parties and farmers' markets, foster a strong sense of belonging.

Cons

Westlake's traffic can slow commutes during peak hours, and its car-dependent layout means limited public transportation options.  Bottom line: Westlake is a safe and family-friendly area close to Cleveland, but getting around generally requires a car.

So, Are You Ready to Make the Move?

With low crime rates, Westlake, Ohio, is a safe and welcoming choice. But before you're fully ready, get in touch with our professional Westlake moving company and get yourself a a free moving estimate.
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