Great Falls, MT Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Great Falls, MT

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Great Falls crime rate is 114.3% 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 Great Falls, there were 300 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 497 per 100,000 individuals, 34.3% higher than the national average. Additionally, Great Falls recorded 2708 property crimes, amounting to 4484 per 100,000 residents, 129.5% higher than the U.S. average.

With a total of 4981 crimes per 100,000 people, the Great Falls crime rates stand at 114.32 higher than the national average. Consequently, the area grapples with one of the nation's highest total crime rates. Addressing this challenge is crucial for enhancing the safety and livability in Great Falls, making it a priority to reduce crime through community engagement, effective law enforcement, and collaborative efforts to secure a better future for residents and prospective residents.

Great Falls has some of the highest property crime rates in the country with 4484 crimes per 100,000 people - this ranks in the bottom 10% of all American cities that reported crime. Your chance of being a victim of property crime in Great Falls is 1 in 23, which is far higher than the national average.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Great Falls?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Great Falls residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 56 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 20% of Great Falls residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 80% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Great Falls a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Great Falls 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 Great Falls crime rate is 114% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 8.24 crimes per day - 0.82 violent crimes and 7.42 property crimes.

Has Crime in Great Falls Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Great Falls. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Great Falls has decreased by 2.7%. Violent crimes have decreased by 7.4%, while property crimes have decreased by 2.1%. 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 Great Falls

Great Falls has a population density of 2539.2 people per square mile, while with the national average is 90.6 people per square mile. Cities characterized by high population density are frequently larger urban centers offering diverse economic prospects. Within these areas, income inequality may be accentuated, resulting in the coexistence of poverty and affluence. Such economic disparities can contribute to elevated property crimes and on occasion, violent crimes. Conversely, areas with low population density generally record lower Great Falls crime rates.

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 Great Falls, the cost of living is 10.33% lower than the national average.

Great Falls has an average rental rate of $748 per month, compared to the national average of $949. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.

Great Falls crime map