As crime rates rise in Arizona, so do the costs 

The Arizona Chamber Foundation and the Common Sense Institute (CSI) Arizona have released a comprehensive report titled “The Cost of Crime in Arizona,” highlighting the substantial economic and societal impacts of crime statewide.

Arizona residents pay the price

Crime in Arizona imposed a staggering $20.6 billion cost in 2022, equal to 4% of the state’s GDP. This translates to $2,796 per resident or $7,200 per household.

“The findings of our report reflect the significant toll crime is imposing on Arizona, costing the state billions of dollars annually,” stated Zachary Milne, senior economist and research analyst at CSI. “The recent rise in violent crime is not only undermining public safety, but is costing Arizonans gravely. Lawmakers should keep these costs in mind when crafting state policy.” 

Violent crime

Murder rates in Arizona have risen 47% above 2014 levels, marking the end of a nearly 20-year decline in crime rates.  

Between 1994 and 2014, Arizona’s violent crime rates averaged just over 6% higher than the national average. However, violent crime in the state surged nearly 30% from 2014 to 2017. Since 2014, Arizona’s violent crime rate has averaged nearly 18% above the national average, ranking worse than most states across all categories of violent and property crime.

Violent crime, while accounting for just over 20% of reported incidents, represented 87% of the costs due to significant quality-of-life impacts. Maricopa County, with 62% of Arizona’s population, bore 67% of crimes and 75% of violent crimes, highlighting its disproportionate burden.

Drug trafficking, reduced sentences

A surge in fentanyl use and illegal immigration coincides with rising violent crime, compounded by overdose deaths and drug trafficking. Criminal justice policy changes, including reduced sentencing and bail reforms, have further influenced this trend, with 2022 crime costs $4.1 billion higher than under pre-2015 conditions. 

“With crime costing Arizona over $20 billion annually, this report underscores the urgent need for solutions that prioritize public safety, protect businesses, and support victims,” said Danny Seiden, president and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry. “We hope this data serves as a wake-up call for policymakers.”