Crime affects the quality of life of those who directly experience and witness it, and it also impacts the lives of others in a community who may feel threatened by it. Low crime rates may promote connections within the community, housing stability, and a community's attractiveness as a place to live, work and do business.

In 2021, there were 165 serious crimes reported per 10,000 residents in the 9-county region, similar to the state rate of 173. Regionally, serious crimes have declined 53% since 2000, greater than the 44% decline statewide. The lowest decrease was in Seneca (24%) with the highest in Wyoming (75%) since 2000.

Serious crime rates were highest in Monroe, at 195 crimes per 10,000 residents in 2021. Rates were lowest in Yates and Wyoming, 74 and 64, respectively. The City of Rochester has consistently had the highest crime rate in the area with a rate of 376 crimes per 10,000 in 2021, a decrease of 7% from 2020, and down 51% from 2000.

Crime reports are never complete because not all crimes are reported, and some crimes in particular, such as rape and assault, are believed to be underreported. National data not available for 2021. Data for this indicator are released in the third quarter.