Leitchfield, KY Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Leitchfield, KY

Crime is typically categorized into two main types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. Based on the most recent report, the Leitchfield crime rate is lower than the national average by 19.1%. Specifically, there were 12 violent crimes in Leitchfield, equivalent to 187 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 49.6%. Furthermore, Leitchfield recorded 109 property crimes, amounting to 1694 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 13.3%.

In the most recently reported crime year, Leitchfield 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.

Is Leitchfield a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Leitchfield a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Leitchfield crime rate is 19% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.33 crimes per day - 0.03 violent crimes and 0.3 property crimes.

Has Crime in Leitchfield 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 Leitchfield 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 Leitchfield has decreased by 24.8% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 33.3% and property crime has decreased by 28.3%.

Potential Causes for Crime in Leitchfield

The educational level achieved in any given city can influence crime rates significantly. Greater educational achievement is frequently associated with decreased crime rates, as it offers individuals improved job prospects and alternatives to engaging in crime related activities. Conversely, lower educational attainment rates tend to coincide with elevated crime rates. In Leitchfield, 69.5% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, in contrast to the national average where 83% have achieved high school graduation.

Escalating cost of living expenses, encompassing exorbitant housing costs, grocery and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards criminal activities, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In Leitchfield, the cost of living is 12.35% lower than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.

High rental costs can limit economic mobility, making it difficult for individuals to save money, invest in education, or access better job opportunities. This can perpetuate a cycle of poverty and increase the risk of involvement in criminal activities. In summary, high rental costs can create economic challenges, overcrowding, and neighborhood dynamics that may increase the likelihood of certain types of crime, particularly property crimes. In Leitchfield, the average rental rates are $555 per month, compared to the national average of $949.

Leitchfield crime map