Rantoul, IL Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Rantoul, IL

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 Rantoul crime rate is higher than the national average by 21.8%. Specifically, there were 73 violent crimes in Rantoul, equivalent to 610 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 64.9%. Furthermore, Rantoul recorded 266 property crimes, amounting to 2222 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 13.7%.

While murder rates in the United States have shown a consistent decline since 1990, recent years have witnessed an increase. Unfortunately, Rantoul ranks among the cities with the highest murder rates in the nation, when compared to all reporting cities in the U.S. In Rantoul, there were a total of 5 murders, translating to 42 murders per 100,000 residents. This alarming statistic underscores the need for heightened attention to community safety and crime prevention efforts in the area.

Rantoul exhibits a property crime rate closely aligned with the national average. There were 2222 reported property crimes, which closely matches the national average of 1954 per 100,000 people. Consequently, the area's safety profile mirrors that of an average city, neither notably safer nor more dangerous than the norm. This balance suggests that Rantoul maintains a consistent approach to property crime prevention in line with the broader national landscape.

Is Rantoul a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Rantoul 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 Rantoul crime rate is 22% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.93 crimes per day - 0.2 violent crimes and 0.73 property crimes.

Has Crime in Rantoul Increased Since Last Year?

In the most recent crime report, year-over-year crime rates in Rantoul has increased by 27.9%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Rantoul, 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 52.1%, while property crime has increased by 22.6%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about whether or not Rantoul is a safe place to live.

Potential Causes for Crime in Rantoul

In Rantoul, the cost of living is 17.25% lower than the national average. A high cost of living can induce economic stress for locals, especially those with limited financial resources. When people grapple with soaring housing expenses, utility bills, healthcare costs, and other essential necessities, they may be driven towards criminal activities, including theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities boasting a lower cost of living may mitigate economic pressures and potentially result in reduced crime rates.

The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Rantoul, there are 3.08 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage with the community.

High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Rantoul are $788, compared to a national average of $949 per month.

Rantoul crime map