| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Watseka/100k people | Illinois/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 83 | n/a (estimate) | 1,809 | 1,970 | 2,324 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 7.8 | 6.3 |
| Rape | 2 | n/a | 43.6 | 48.1 | 40.0 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 84.7 | 66.1 |
| Assault | 5 | n/a | 109.0 | 146.7 | 268.2 |
| Violent crime | 7 | n/a (estimate) | 153 | 287 | 370 |
| Burglary | 5 | n/a | 109.0 | 208.5 | 269.8 |
| Theft | 66 | n/a | 1,438.8 | 1,192.7 | 1,401.9 |
| Vehicle theft | 5 | n/a | 109.0 | 281.6 | 282.7 |
| Property crime | 76 | n/a (estimate) | 1,657 | 1,683 | 1,954 |
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 Watseka crime rate is lower than the national average by 22.2%. Specifically, there were 7 violent crimes in Watseka, equivalent to 153 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 58.7%. Furthermore, Watseka recorded 76 property crimes, amounting to 1657 per 100,000 residents, which was lower than the average by 15.2%.
In the most recently reported crime year, Watseka registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.
Is Watseka a safe place to live? While the answer may not be straightforward due to variations in safety levels across the city, gaining an understanding of the overall crime rate can prove to be advantageous. In general, Watseka has a crime rate that is lower than the national average by 22%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 0.23 daily incidents, encompassing 0.02 violent crimes and 0.21 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Watseka as a potential place to call home.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Watseka. 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 Watseka has decreased by 46.1%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 56.3%, while property crime has decreased by 44.9%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Watseka.
If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Watseka crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Watseka has an unemployment rate of 3.2%, compared to a national average of 4.7%.
Watseka has a population density of 1683.3 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 90.6 people per square mile. High population density cities are often large urban hubs teeming with diverse economic opportunities. Within these environments, income disparities can become pronounced, leading to higher poverty levels. This economic divide may contribute to an uptick in property crimes and, occasionally, violent crimes. In contrast, areas characterized by low population density typically exhibit lower Watseka crime rates.
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 Watseka stands at $79,700, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.
| Item | Watseka | Illinois | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 9 | 30,690 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.7 | 2.6 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Illinois /100K | National /100K |
| Illinois | 32,213 | 263 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Onarga, IL | 1,134 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Kentland, IN | 1,809 | 137 | 690 | 827 |
| Clifton, IL | 1,178 | 126 | 740 | 866 |
| Gilman, IL | 1,734 | 139 | 818 | 957 |
| Milford, IL | 1,230 | 148 | 868 | 1,016 |
| Sheldon, IL | 1,198 | 156 | 914 | 1,070 |
| Morocco, IN | 1,097 | 383 | 1,935 | 2,318 |
| Watseka, IL | 4,956 | 153 | 1,657 | 1,809 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| West Sayville, NY | 4,956 | 214 | 858 | 1,072 |
| Keyser, WV | 4,956 | 272 | 1,204 | 1,476 |
| Barling, AR | 4,957 | 490 | 1,206 | 1,696 |
| Perry, OK | 4,959 | 287 | 1,873 | 2,160 |
| Needles, CA | 4,959 | 1,865 | 2,336 | 4,201 |
| Watseka, IL | 4,956 | 153 | 1,657 | 1,809 |
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