Coos County, situated in the northernmost region of New Hampshire, holds the distinction of being the least populated county, recording a population of 31,268 in the 2020 census.
Renowned for its picturesque natural landscapes, opportunities for outdoor recreation, and rich historical heritage, the county offers a unique blend of attractions. However, it’s important to note that safety levels vary across different areas within Coos County.
Examining crime data spanning from 2017 to 2021 reveals a notable context. Coos County exhibits a violent crime rate of 2.46 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 28.68 incidents per 1,000 residents.
These figures surpass the state averages of 1.37 for violent crime and 10.63 for property crime, indicating that certain areas within Coos County experience higher crime rates compared to the broader state statistics.
How Does Coos County Compare to Other Counties in New Hampshire?
Coos County, situated in New Hampshire, stands as one of the state’s 10 counties, exhibiting the highest crime rates among them. As reported by CrimeGrade.org, the county records a violent crime rate of 2.46 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 28.68 per 1,000 residents.
These figures surpass the state averages, which are 1.37 for violent crimes and 10.63 for property crimes. The table below provides a comprehensive overview of crime rates and grades for all New Hampshire counties, utilizing data from the years 2017-2021.
| County | Violent Crime Rate | Property Crime Rate | Violent Crime Grade | Property Crime Grade |
| Coos | 2.46 | 28.68 | C | D |
| Belknap | 1.83 | 18.64 | B | B |
| Carroll | 1.51 | 15.13 | B | B |
| Cheshire | 1.47 | 14.05 | B | B |
| Grafton | 1.44 | 12.17 | B | A |
| Hillsborough | 1.43 | 11.67 | B | A |
| Merrimack | 1.36 | 9.97 | B | A |
| Rockingham | 1.35 | 9.96 | B | A |
| Strafford | 1.34 | 9.95 | B | A |
| Sullivan | 1.32 | 9.94 | B | A |
As evident, Coos County exhibits the poorest crime grades in both categories, contrasting with mostly B or A grades in other counties.
Additionally, Coos County has the smallest population and the lowest median household income among New Hampshire counties. These factors likely contribute to the elevated crime rates in Coos County.
Furthermore, we will delve into the five most dangerous neighborhoods in Coos County, utilizing crime maps and statistics from CrimeGrade.org.
Berlin
Berlin, situated along the Androscoggin River, stands as the sole city and the most populous community in Coos County, boasting a population of 9,439 according to the 2020 census. In its heyday, Berlin thrived as a hub for paper-making and logging industries.
The city grapples with a violent crime rate of 3.17 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 34.64 incidents per 1,000 residents. Particularly, the eastern and southern parts of Berlin face higher susceptibility to criminal activities, with certain areas earning a crime risk score of 9 or 10 out of 10.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Cheapest Place to Live in Louisiana
Gorham
Gorham, located in Coos County, has a population of 2,556 according to the 2020 census. Positioned at the northern end of the Presidential Range, it attracts hikers, skiers, and snowmobilers.
The town has a violent crime rate of 3.13 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 35.35 per 1,000 residents. The western and northern parts of Gorham are particularly susceptible to crime, with certain areas scoring 9 or 10 out of 10 on the crime risk scale.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Cheapest Place to Live in Ohio
Lancaster
Lancaster, situated in Coos County, serves as the county seat, boasting a population of 3,282 according to the 2020 census. The town experiences a violent crime rate of 3.35 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 36.67 per 1,000 residents.
Crime disproportionately impacts the southern and eastern regions of the town, where certain areas carry a high crime risk, scoring 9 or 10 out of 10.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Nez Perce County, Idaho
Colebrook
Colebrook, situated in Coos County, is one of the two shire towns and holds a population of 2,191 according to the 2020 census. The town exhibits a violent crime rate of 4.11 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 38.81 per 1,000 residents.
Particularly, the central and northern regions of the town face higher susceptibility to crime, with certain areas earning a crime risk score of 9 or 10 out of 10.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Kootenai County, Idaho
Errol
Errol, located in Coos County, has a population of 263 according to the 2020 census. The town has a violent crime rate of 7.6 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 45.63 per 1,000 residents. With a crime risk score of 10 out of 10, Errol is identified as the most perilous neighborhood in Coos County.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Cities in New Hampshire
Final Words
Here are the top five riskiest neighborhoods in Coos County, New Hampshire, based on the most recent crime data. Nevertheless, crime is unpredictable, so it’s crucial to stay vigilant, be mindful of your surroundings, and take steps to safeguard yourself and your belongings. Prioritize your safety and appreciate the allure of Coos County.
