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 2018, there were 190 serious crimes reported per 10,000 residents in the 9-county region, higher than the state rate of 178. Regionally, serious crimes have declined 46% since 2000, greater than the 42% decline statewide. The only exceptions to double-digit county-wide decreases were in Orleans where the rate decreased 6%.

Serious crime rates were highest in Monroe, averaging about 343 crimes per 10,000 residents since 2000. Rates were lowest in Yates and Wyoming, averaging about 140 and 150, respectively, over the same time period. The City of Rochester has consistently had the highest crime rate in the area with a rate of 419 crimes per 10,000 in 2018, an decrease of 12% from 2017, and down 46% 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. Data for this indicator are released in the third quarter.