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 2017, there were 214 serious crimes reported per 10,000 residents in the 9-county region, higher than the state rate of 181. Regionally, serious crimes have declined 39% since 2000, less than the 41% decline statewide. The only exceptions to county-wide decreases were in Orleans where the rate increased 19%.

Serious crime rates were highest in Monroe, averaging about 349 crimes per 10,000 residents since 2000. Rates were lowest in Yates and Wyoming, averaging about 140 and 155, respectively, over the same time period. The City of Rochester has consistently had the highest crime rate in the area with a rate of 471 crimes per 10,000 in 2017, an increase of 2% from 2016, and down 39% 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.