Altoona, IA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Altoona, IA

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Altoona crime rate is 38.9% lower 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 Altoona, there were 40 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 183 per 100,000 individuals, 50.5% lower than the national average. Additionally, Altoona recorded 270 property crimes, amounting to 1237 per 100,000 residents, 36.7% lower than the U.S. average.

In a remarkable testament to the city's commitment to safety, Altoona reported a murder rate of 0. This could indicate that it is a very safe place to live, but also serves as an inspiration to other urban areas striving for safer communities. Examining the full crime report will provide a complete overview of all crimes - violent and property.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Altoona?

AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Altoona residents. Out of the respondents (5 in total), 0% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Altoona were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 100% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.

Is Altoona a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Altoona is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Altoona has an overall crime rate that is 39% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.85 daily occurrences, comprising 0.11 violent crimes and 0.74 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Altoona as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Altoona Increased Since Last Year?

In the most recent crime report, year-over-year crime rates in Altoona has decreased by 28.2%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Altoona, aiding residents in assessing whether it is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. These crime rates are categorized into two primary groups: violent and property crimes. Year-over-year, violent crime has decreased by 25.9%, while property crime has decreased by 28.6%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about whether or not Altoona is a safe place to live.

Potential Causes for Crime in Altoona

High cost of living can lead to economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When people struggle to make ends meet due to high housing costs, healthcare expenses, or other basic necessities, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. On the flipside, cities that have a lower cost of living, could see a reduced crime rate. In Altoona, the cost of living is 8.4% lower than the national average.

In areas where housing affordability is an issue, crime can become a significant concern. Some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions, which can increase stress and potentially contribute to domestic disputes and related crimes. The median home price in Altoona is $199,600, compared to a national average of $184,700.

Elevated rental costs can generate economic strain for both individuals and families, particularly those with restricted financial means. When a substantial proportion of one's income is allocated to housing costs, it often leaves limited resources for fulfilling other crucial necessities such as groceries, healthcare and education. This financial pressure can fuel desperation, potentially prompting individuals to resort to criminal actions, including theft or fraud, as a means of coping with their financial hardships. In Altoona, the average monthly rent stands at $1,027, while the national average is $949 per month.

Altoona crime map