Benson, NC Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Benson, NC

The Benson crime rates are 134.1% higher than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 47 violent crimes in Benson (1107 per 100,000 people), which is 199.3% higher than the national average and there were a total of 184 property crimes (4333 per 100,000 residents) which is 121.7% higher than average.

With a crime rate of 5440 per 100,000 residents, Benson has a crime rate that is 134.08% higher than the national average. This results in one of the highest total crime rates in the entire country. This does not necessarily mean that the entire city is unsafe. As with any area, there are some pockets in Benson that are much safer than others. A little research will go a long way in determining which areas could potentially offer a safer living environment.

Benson is one of the most dangerous cities in America with a violent crime rate of 1107 per 100,000 people - this ranks in the bottom 10% of all U.S. cities that reported crime. Your chance of being a victim of violent crime in Benson is 1 in 91.

In the most recently reported crime year, Benson registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.

Every year, one in 24 people fall victim to a property crime in Benson - which is high compared to the national average. With a property crime rate of 4333 per 100,000 people, Benson has one of the highest property crime rates in the country. In fact, the city ranks among the worst 10% of all cities that reported crime last year.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Benson?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Benson residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 7 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 43% of Benson residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 57% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Benson a Safe Place to Live?

To determine if Benson is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Benson has a total crime rate that is 134% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.63 daily crimes (0.13 violent daily crimes and 0.5 daily property crimes) in Benson.

Has Crime in Benson Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Benson. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Benson has increased by 14.9%. Violent crimes have increased by 62.1%, while property crimes have increased by 7%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

Potential Causes for Crime in Benson

In Benson, 68.3% of residents have graduated from high school, whereas the national average stands at 83%. The educational makeup of a community can exert a significant influence on crime rates. Typically, higher levels of educational attainment are associated with reduced crime rates, as they furnish individuals with improved employment prospects and viable alternatives to engaging in criminal activities. Conversely, communities characterized by lower educational achievement often grapple with higher crime rates, as limited opportunities may drive individuals towards criminal behavior.

In Benson, the median home price stands at $117,300, diverging from the national average of $184,700. Elevated housing costs often induce financial strain among residents. When individuals grapple with the challenges of affording housing, they may find themselves compelled to resort to criminal activities as a means of addressing their financial hardships, including acts like theft or fraud. This predicament is particularly pronounced in areas where housing affordability poses a persistent issue, giving rise to heightened concerns regarding crime. In such instances, some individuals and families may find themselves constrained to reside in cramped or subpar housing conditions, exacerbating stress levels and potentially fostering domestic disputes and associated criminal incidents.

Benson has an average rental rate of $680 per month, compared to the national average of $949. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.

Benson crime map