Do you dream of living in a peaceful and secure neighborhood in Indiana? While the state boasts a charming Midwestern character and beautiful landscapes, some areas struggle with higher crime rates.
Indiana’s reputation leans towards a safe and friendly environment. Known for its rolling farmlands, vibrant cities, and rich history, the state offers a variety of living options. However, it’s crucial to consider crime rates when choosing a place to call home.
This blog post aims to empower you with knowledge by exploring five Indiana neighborhoods with higher crime rates. It’s important to note that crime can occur anywhere, and this information should be used as a starting point for further research.
The data used in this post is compiled from credible sources such as local police department reports and the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program.
This blog post is for informational purposes only and shouldn’t be substituted for professional safety advice. Always prioritize your well-being and take proactive steps to ensure your safety regardless of your location.
1. Gary
Once a booming steel town, Gary, Indiana, has faced economic challenges in recent decades. These struggles have unfortunately been accompanied by higher crime rates. Gary’s violent crime rate consistently surpasses both Indiana’s and the national average. Property crimes also plague the city at a higher rate than the national norm.
Here are some specific neighborhoods in Gary to be aware of:
- The Concord Area: This area has a reputation for gang activity and drug trafficking.
- 5th Ave. and 21st St.: This intersection is known for violent crime and property theft.
- Delaney Projects: This public housing complex has struggled with gang violence and drug problems.
- Tarrytown and Clark Rd.: These areas experience high rates of property crime and violent offenses.
2. South Bend
South Bend, Indiana, is the state’s fourth-largest city and has experienced fluctuations in crime rates in recent years. While there have been some improvements, the city’s overall crime rate remains above the national average. Violent crime, particularly shootings, continues to be a concern.
Here are some neighborhoods in South Bend with higher crime rates:
- West Side and Near West Side: These areas have historically grappled with gang violence and drug activity.
- Other areas to research: It’s important to note that crime can fluctuate within a city. Utilize resources like the South Bend Police Department’s crime mapping tool for a more detailed picture.
3. Indianapolis
As Indiana’s capital and most populous city, Indianapolis experiences a higher crime rate than the state average. There’s a significant disparity between safer and higher-crime neighborhoods within the city limits.
Here are some neighborhoods in Indianapolis to be cautious of:
- Bosart-Collingwood: This neighborhood on the near east side struggles with gang activity, drug trafficking, and violent crime.
- Haughville: This area experiences high rates of property crime and violent offenses.
- West 29th Street: This corridor is known for gang activity and violent crime.
- Concord: This neighborhood on the near east side has a reputation for drug trafficking and violent crime.
4. Evansville
Evansville, Indiana, is a southwestern city with a mix of industry and revitalization efforts. While the city has seen some improvement in crime rates, it still experiences higher-than-average levels of violent crime.
Here are some neighborhoods in Evansville to be aware of:
- Jacobsville: This neighborhood on the north side has a reputation for gang activity and violent crime.
- Wesselman Park: This area experiences high rates of property crime and drug offenses.
- Franklin Street: This corridor is known for drug trafficking and violent crime.
5. Hammond
Hammond, Indiana, is situated directly across the state line from Chicago. The city has a mix of industrial areas and residential neighborhoods, with some pockets experiencing higher crime rates.
Here are some neighborhoods in Hammond to be cautious of:
- Hessville: This area on the city’s east side experiences high rates of property crime and drug offenses.
- Robertsdale: This neighborhood has a reputation for gang activity and violent crime.
- Ridge Manor: This area experiences high rates of property crime and drug trafficking.
Beyond the List: Taking Precautions
While this blog post highlights specific neighborhoods, it’s important to remember that crime can occur anywhere. Here are some general safety tips to consider:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and pay attention to your environment, especially at night.
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Avoid situations or areas that make you feel uncomfortable.
- Avoid poorly lit areas at night: Stick to well-lit streets and paths whenever possible.
- Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back: This allows someone to check on you if you’re delayed.
- Invest in a home security system: This can deter potential criminals and provide peace of mind.
- Get to know your neighbors: Building relationships with your neighbors can foster a sense of community and create a network of watchful eyes.
Researching a Specific Neighborhood
If you’re considering moving to a specific neighborhood, here are some resources to help you research crime rates:
- Local Police Department Websites: Most police departments offer online resources with crime mapping tools that allow you to view crime statistics for specific areas.
- Neighborhood Watch Programs: Many neighborhoods have established watch programs that can provide valuable insights into local safety concerns.
- Real Estate Websites: Some real estate websites offer crime data overlays on their neighborhood maps.
Conclusion
Feeling safe in your neighborhood is paramount to your overall well-being. By familiarizing yourself with crime rates and taking proactive safety measures, you can empower yourself to make informed decisions about where to live and how to stay safe.
Remember, there are resources available to help improve neighborhoods. Community involvement and collaboration with local law enforcement can play a significant role in reducing crime.
The key takeaway? Be informed, take precautions, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help in creating a safer environment for yourself and your community.
