Lexington, NE Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Lexington, NE

Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Lexington is 14.2% lower than the national average. Specifically, there were 14 violent crimes reported in Lexington, equivalent to 135 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 63.5%. Additionally, Lexington recorded 193 property crimes, amounting to 1859 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average by 4.9%.

During the most recently reported crime year, Lexington 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.

The property crime rate per 100,000 people in Lexington is very similar to the national average. Lexington had a property crime rate of 1859, while the national average was 1954. Based on these numbers, you could expect an average amount of property crime in this area.

Is Lexington a Safe Place to Live?

Is Lexington 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, Lexington has a crime rate that is lower than the national average by 14%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 0.57 daily incidents, encompassing 0.04 violent crimes and 0.53 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Lexington as a potential place to call home.

Has Crime in Lexington Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Lexington. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Lexington has increased by 31.9%. Violent crimes have decreased by 12.5%, while property crimes have increased by 36.9%. 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 Lexington

In Lexington, the cost of living is 18.55% 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.

The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Lexington, there are 1.94 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage with the community.

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 Lexington are $837, compared to a national average of $949 per month.

Lexington crime map