Grinnell, IA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Grinnell, IA

The Grinnell crime rates are 18.5% 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 77 violent crimes in Grinnell (813 per 100,000 people), which is 119.8% higher than the national average and there were a total of 184 property crimes (1942 per 100,000 residents) which is 0.6% lower than average.

Grinnell ranks among the bottom 10% of all U.S. cities reporting violent crime, earning its reputation as one of the nation's most dangerous areas. With a violent crime rate of 813 per 100,000 people, Grinnell is considered one of the most unsafe cities in America. This statistic translates to a 1 in 124 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Grinnell, underscoring the need for increased safety measures and community engagement to improve the city's security.

During the most recently reported crime year, Grinnell experienced a total of 0 reported murders. This statistic paints it as a beacon of security when it comes to severe violent crimes. Such an achievement not only instills a profound sense of security for its residents but also sets a high standard for other communities striving to create similarly secure environments. It underscores the area as a place where safety is a top priority, enhancing its appeal as a desirable location to live and thrive.

Grinnell has a property crime rate that closely mirrors the national average. There were a total of 1942 property crimes in Grinnell, while the national average was 1954 per 100,000 people. This results in the area being no safer or more dangerous than the average city.

Is Grinnell a Safe Place to Live?

Is Grinnell a safe place to live? While the answer may not be straightforward due to variations in safety levels across the city, gaining an understanding of the overall crime rate can prove to be advantageous. In general, Grinnell has a crime rate that is higher than the national average by 19%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 0.72 daily incidents, encompassing 0.21 violent crimes and 0.5 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Grinnell as a potential place to call home.

Has Crime in Grinnell Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Grinnell. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Grinnell has increased by 24.3%. Violent crimes have increased by 60.4%, while property crimes have increased by 13.6%. 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 Grinnell

Grinnell has a poverty rate that stands at 11, in contrast to the national average of 15.1. Historically, a direct correlation has been observed between poverty rates and crime stats. Higher poverty rates have led to higher crime rates, while lower poverty rates have led to a reduction in Grinnell crime rates. Income disparities and heightened poverty levels can serve as catalysts for elevated or reduced criminal activity, as individuals may or may not turn to illicit means to fulfill their basic needs. This could be one of many factors that may influence crime.

Highly populated regions typically encompass expansive urban hubs teeming with diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality can be exacerbated, giving rise to enclaves of poverty amid affluence. Communities marked by economic disparities may contend with heightened property crimes, and in certain instances, violent crimes. Conversely, regions characterized by low population density often exhibit lower Grinnell crime rates. For instance, in Grinnell, the population density stands at 1594.1 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 90.6 people per square mile.

High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Grinnell are $739, compared to a national average of $949 per month.

Grinnell crime map