Jacksonville, IL Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Jacksonville, IL

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Jacksonville crime rate is 2.9% higher than the national average. These incidents are classified into two primary categories: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes include assault, robbery, rape and murder. Whereas property crimes encompass theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In the case of Jacksonville, there were 42 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 237 per 100,000 individuals, 36% lower than the national average. Additionally, Jacksonville recorded 382 property crimes, amounting to 2154 per 100,000 residents, 10.2% higher than the U.S. average.

The Jacksonville crime rate is about average when compared to all the other cities across the U.S. per 100,000 residents. When we compared the total crimes (violent and property) in Jacksonville, we found that the reported crime rates were almost equal to the average of all other areas that reported crime.

In the most recently reported crime year, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville has a property crime rate that closely mirrors the national average. There were a total of 2154 property crimes in Jacksonville, 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.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Jacksonville?

AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Jacksonville residents. Out of the respondents (7 in total), 57% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Jacksonville were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 43% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.

Is Jacksonville a Safe Place to Live?

To determine if Jacksonville 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. Jacksonville has a total crime rate that is 3% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 1.16 daily crimes (0.12 violent daily crimes and 1.05 daily property crimes) in Jacksonville.

Has Crime in Jacksonville Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in Jacksonville crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Jacksonville has increased by 247.5% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 40% and property crime has increased by 315.2%.

Potential Causes for Crime in Jacksonville

Jacksonville has a poverty rate that stands at 16.2, 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 Jacksonville 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.

In Jacksonville, the cost of living is 16.48% lower than the national average. A substantial cost of living can burden residents, particularly those with constrained financial means. When individuals contend with steep housing expenses, grocery bills, utility costs, healthcare and essential needs that strain their budgets, they may turn to criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities characterized by a more affordable cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, which could potentially lead to decreased crime rates.

In Jacksonville, the average rental rates are $659 per month, compared to the national average of $949. Rapid increases in rental costs can lead to neighborhood instability as residents are forced to move frequently in search of more affordable housing. This transience can weaken community bonds and hinder the establishment of social support networks, which can indirectly contribute to crime. While affordable rent and areas with higher income per capita, allow for long term renters and community bonds to the formed, therefore reducing crime rates on the long term.

Jacksonville crime map