Mason City, IA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Mason City, IA

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Mason City crime rate is 27.7% 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 Mason City, there were 79 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 292 per 100,000 individuals, 21% lower than the national average. Additionally, Mason City recorded 723 property crimes, amounting to 2675 per 100,000 residents, 36.9% higher than the U.S. average.

In a remarkable testament to the city's commitment to safety, Mason City 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 Mason City?

AreaVibes surveyed 54 local residents in Mason City to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 37% of people answered that there was very little crime in Mason City and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 63% of people responded that there was far too much crime and they would be hesitant to walk the streets alone at night. Keep in mind that the opinions of residents may vary depending on which area they live in.

Is Mason City a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in Mason City, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Mason City presents a total crime rate that is 28% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Mason City experiences an average of 2.2 daily crimes, comprising 0.22 violent incidents and 1.98 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.

Has Crime in Mason City Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Mason City. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Mason City has decreased by 6.7%. Violent crimes have decreased by 26.9%, while property crimes have decreased by 3.9%. 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 Mason City

Mason City has a poverty rate that stands at 10.8, in contrast to the national average of 15.1. Historically, a direct correlation has been observed between poverty rates and crime stats. Higher poverty rates have led to higher crime rates, while lower poverty rates have led to a reduction in Mason City crime rates. Income disparities and heightened poverty levels can serve as catalysts for elevated or reduced criminal activity, as individuals may or may not turn to illicit means to fulfill their basic needs. This could be one of many factors that may influence crime.

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 Mason City stands at $112,500, a contrast to the 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 Mason City, the average monthly rent stands at $733, while the national average is $949 per month.

Mason City crime map