Melrose Park, IL Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Melrose Park, IL

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Melrose Park crime rate is 14.1% 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 Melrose Park, there were 69 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 291 per 100,000 individuals, 21.4% lower than the national average. Additionally, Melrose Park recorded 405 property crimes, amounting to 1706 per 100,000 residents, 12.7% lower than the U.S. average.

In the latest reported crime year, Melrose Park recorded zero homicides. This statistic potentially positions the city as a paragon of security, radiating a profound sense of safety for its residents. A low number of severe violent crimes instills a deep feeling of well-being among its community but also establishes a lofty benchmark for other locales aspiring to foster equally secure environments.

The property crime rate per 100,000 people in Melrose Park is very similar to the national average. Melrose Park had a property crime rate of 1706, while the national average was 1954. Based on these numbers, you could expect an average amount of property crime in this area.

Is Melrose Park a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Melrose Park 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 Melrose Park crime rate is 14% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 1.3 crimes per day - 0.19 violent crimes and 1.11 property crimes.

Has Crime in Melrose Park Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Melrose Park. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Melrose Park has increased by 21.2%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 6.8%, while property crime has increased by 27.8%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Melrose Park.

Potential Causes for Crime in Melrose Park

Melrose Park reports an unemployment rate of 4.1%, contrasting with the national average of 4.7%. Constrained employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-paying positions can contribute to elevated rates of unemployment and underemployment. Areas where individuals contend with joblessness or insufficient wages may display heightened susceptibility to an increase in criminal activities attributed to economic insecurity. Conversely, regions characterized by robust employment rates often witness a decrease in overall Melrose Park crime rates.

Rising cost of living expenses, including increased housing costs, grocery, utility and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards crime, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In Melrose Park, the cost of living is 3.22% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.

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 Melrose Park stands at $200,700, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

Melrose Park crime map