Canton, SD Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Canton, SD

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 Canton crime rate is lower than the national average by 34.8%. Specifically, there were 12 violent crimes in Canton, equivalent to 396 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 7%. Furthermore, Canton recorded 34 property crimes, amounting to 1121 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 42.6%.

Canton exhibits a violent crime rate that closely echoes the national average reported by all cities, with 396 incidents per 100,000 people, in line with the nationwide figure of 370. This uniformity underscores Canton as a community where safety standards align seamlessly with the broader national context, delivering residents a steadfast and dependable sense of security.

During the most recently reported crime year, Canton 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.

Is Canton a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Canton 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 Canton crime rate is 35% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.13 crimes per day - 0.03 violent crimes and 0.09 property crimes.

Has Crime in Canton Increased Since Last Year?

In the most recent crime report, year-over-year crime rates in Canton has increased by 12.2%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Canton, 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 increased by 100%, while property crime has increased by 2.9%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about whether or not Canton is a safe place to live.

Potential Causes for Crime in Canton

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 Canton, the cost of living is 16.98% lower than the national average.

Canton has a ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents that differs from the national norm, with 1.55 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to 3.25 nationwide. Crime rates are profoundly influenced by the effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing endeavors. A resilient and cooperative partnership between law enforcement agencies and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, ultimately enhancing safety. The efficacy of law enforcement extends beyond mere numbers and extends into the realm of community policing strategies, emphasizing the cultivation of trust and collaboration between officers and the community. It is not merely a matter of quantity but the quality of engagement with the community that matters most.

The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Canton stands at $142,400, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

Canton crime map