Modesto, CA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Modesto, CA

Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Modesto is 36.2% higher than the national average. Specifically, there were 1669 violent crimes reported in Modesto, equivalent to 762 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average by 106%. Additionally, Modesto recorded 5264 property crimes, amounting to 2403 per 100,000 people, higher than the national average by 22.9%.

With a violent crime rate of 762 crimes per 100,000 residents, Modesto is known as one of the most dangerous cities in the United States. In fact, Modesto ranks in the bottom 10% of all cities that reported violent crime last year. This translates into a 1 in 132 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime. Keep in mind that some areas will be safer than others and this doesn't necessarily mean that the entire city suffers from a high violent crime rate.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Modesto?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Modesto residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 173 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 29% of Modesto 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, 71% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Modesto a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Modesto 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, Modesto has an overall crime rate that is 36% higher than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 18.99 daily occurrences, comprising 4.57 violent crimes and 14.42 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Modesto as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Modesto Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Modesto. 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 Modesto has decreased by 0.1%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 4.1%, while property crime has decreased by 1.4%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Modesto.

Potential Causes for Crime in Modesto

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 Modesto, the cost of living is 11.46% higher than the national average.

Modesto has a ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents that differs from the national norm, with 1.42 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 median home price in Modesto is $300,700, compared to the national average of $184,700. High housing costs can lead to financial stress for residents. When individuals struggle to make ends meet due to expensive housing, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities to address their financial difficulties, such as theft or fraud. Communities with stable housing environments tend to foster stronger social bonds and community engagement. This can lead to increased vigilance and cooperation among residents, which can deter criminal behavior.

Modesto crime map