Alton, IL Crime Map

Alton Crime Map: Safety Insights & Statistics for Alton, IL

Introduction to Alton, Illinois: A Riverfront City with a Complex Safety Profile

Nestled along the mighty Mississippi River, Alton, Illinois, is a historic city with a population of 83,705. Located in Madison County and part of the greater St. Louis metro area, Alton is known for its rich history, stunning riverfront views, and a unique blend of small-town charm and urban proximity. With a population density of 652 people per square mile, the city offers a relatively compact community feel, yet its crime profile reveals a varied landscape of safety. Whether you're considering a move, visiting, or simply curious about the Alton crime rate, our comprehensive Alton crime map and analysis provide the insights you need to understand this city's safety dynamics.

Alton's overall crime score stands at 0.196, earning it a B+ grade for safety. This suggests that, on average, Alton is a relatively safe place to live compared to many other cities of its size. However, the crime score ranges widely across the city, from a near-perfect 0.01 in the safest areas to a concerning 0.81 in higher-crime zones. Of the 29 city blocks analyzed, a significant 58.6% receive an A grade for safety, while 31% are graded B, indicating that much of Alton offers a secure environment. Still, small portions—3.4% with a C grade and 6.9% with a D grade—highlight areas where caution is warranted. Let's dive deeper into what these Alton crime statistics mean for residents and visitors alike.

Understanding Crime in Alton, IL

Crime in Alton presents a mixed picture, with an overall crime index of 135 (where 100 represents the national average). This indicates that crime rates here are somewhat higher than the typical U.S. city. Breaking it down, the violent crime index is approximately 119, while the property crime index sits at around 128. These figures suggest that both violent and property crimes contribute to the city's above-average crime rate, though property crimes appear to be a slightly larger concern.

Specific crime types that exceed national averages include larceny/theft, burglary, vehicle theft, and assault. This means residents and visitors should be particularly vigilant about securing personal belongings and staying aware of their surroundings in certain parts of the city. However, it's worth noting that no areas in Alton received an F grade for high crime, which is a positive sign compared to other urban centers in the region. Safety levels vary significantly depending on where you are in the city, with some zones offering exceptional security and others requiring more caution.

Compared to the broader St. Louis metro area, which often grapples with elevated crime rates, Alton holds its own as a relatively safer option within the region. While it doesn't match the safety of some rural Midwest towns, its crime profile is not as severe as larger urban hubs nearby. To get a clearer picture of where risks are concentrated, exploring our interactive Alton crime map is essential. It provides a detailed, block-by-block breakdown to help you navigate the city's safety landscape.

Factors Affecting Safety in Alton

Economic Challenges and Crime Correlation

Economic conditions often play a significant role in shaping a city's crime patterns, and Alton is no exception. With a median household income of $43,291—well below the national average—and a poverty rate of 25.5%, financial stress affects a substantial portion of the population. Additionally, the unemployment rate of 7.9% and a labor force participation rate of 62% suggest that job opportunities may be limited for some residents. These economic struggles can contribute to property crimes like theft and burglary, which are notably above national averages in Alton.

Population Density and Urban Dynamics

Alton's population density of 652 people per square mile reflects a moderately urban environment, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial zones. Areas with higher density often see increased opportunities for crime due to closer proximity and more transient activity. However, the city's layout and community-focused initiatives in safer zones help mitigate some of these risks, contributing to the high percentage of A-graded areas.

Historical and Cultural Context

Founded in 1837, Alton has a storied past as a key stop on the Underground Railroad and a hub for river commerce. Its history of industrial activity and economic fluctuations has shaped a resilient yet diverse community. Over time, shifts in industry and population have led to economic disparities that influence crime trends today. Understanding this context helps explain why safety can vary so widely across different parts of the city, and why community efforts to revitalize and support local residents are crucial for long-term safety improvements.

Living in Alton: Lifestyle and Affordability

Beyond crime statistics, what is it like to call Alton home? The cost of living here is a notable draw, with an overall index of 92 (where 100 is the national average). Housing costs are particularly affordable, with a median home value of $80,441 and a homeownership rate of 60%. For renters, the median rent is $796 per month, though the rent burden—36% of income—indicates that affordability can still be a challenge for lower-income households.

Alton's demographic makeup reflects a working-class community with a median age of 38 years and an average family size of 3. Only 36% of households are married, and 20% of residents hold a college degree, suggesting a mix of family structures and educational backgrounds. The average commute time of 24 minutes is reasonable, often involving trips to nearby employment centers in the St. Louis metro area. Additionally, 9.4% of the population are veterans, highlighting a strong presence of military service members in the community.

Overall, Alton offers a budget-friendly lifestyle with access to urban amenities, but economic challenges and crime concerns in certain areas mean that prospective residents should carefully evaluate their options. Our Alton crime map can help you pinpoint safer zones that align with your needs and budget.

Climate & Environmental Considerations in Alton

Alton's climate is characteristic of the Midwest, with a wide range of temperatures and weather patterns. The average temperature fluctuates between 45°F and 65°F annually, with scorching summer highs of 89°F in July and chilly winter lows of 20°F in January. The city receives 39 inches of rainfall and 24 inches of snowfall each year, so residents should be prepared for both wet and wintry conditions.

Environmental risks are also a factor, as Alton faces above-average threats from natural disasters. With a tornado risk index of 174, an earthquake risk of 125, and a hail risk of 134 (where 100 is the national average), the area is particularly vulnerable to severe weather events. These conditions can indirectly impact safety by disrupting infrastructure or emergency services, so staying informed and prepared is key for residents.

Using Our Interactive Alton Crime Map

Navigating Alton's safety landscape is made easy with our interactive Alton crime map. This powerful tool provides a detailed, block-by-block analysis of crime grades across the city, based on the latest available data. Each area is assigned a grade from A (safest) to D (below average), helping you visualize where risks are higher or lower without getting bogged down in complex statistics.

To use the map, simply zoom in on different parts of Alton to see how safety varies. Hover over specific blocks to view their crime scores and grades, and compare them to surrounding areas. Whether you're house-hunting, planning a visit, or just curious about crime in Alton, this map offers a user-friendly way to make informed decisions. With 58.6% of the city rated as the safest grade, there are plenty of secure areas to explore—but knowing where to exercise extra caution is just as important. Dive into the map today to uncover the full picture of Alton safety.

Safety Tips for Living in or Visiting Alton

Given Alton's crime patterns, taking proactive steps to stay safe can make a big difference. Since property crimes like larceny, burglary, and vehicle theft are more prevalent than the national average, securing your home and belongings should be a priority. Invest in sturdy locks, consider a security system if possible, and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, especially in vehicles.

For personal safety, be mindful of assault risks, which also exceed national averages. Stick to well-lit, populated areas when out at night, and trust your instincts if a situation feels unsafe. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, staying aware of your surroundings can help you avoid potential issues, especially in parts of the city with lower safety grades.

Finally, engage with the community. Alton's residents are known for their resilience and neighborly spirit, and building connections can provide an added layer of security. If you're new to the area, take time to learn the local rhythms and use our Alton crime map to familiarize yourself with safer zones for daily activities.

Conclusion: Is Alton Safe? Explore the Data Yourself

Alton, Illinois, offers a unique blend of historic charm, riverfront beauty, and affordable living, but its safety profile requires careful consideration. With an overall crime score of 0.196 (B+ grade) and a significant 58.6% of the city rated as the safest grade, much of Alton is secure for residents and visitors. However, an overall crime index of 135 and elevated rates of property crimes like theft and burglary, as well as violent crimes like assault, mean that caution is necessary in certain areas. Economic challenges and environmental risks further shape the city's safety landscape, making it essential to stay informed.

Whether you're searching for "Alton crime rate," wondering "is Alton safe," or seeking detailed Alton crime statistics, our interactive Alton crime map is your go-to resource. It offers a clear, block-by-block view of safety across the city, empowering you to make decisions with confidence. From identifying the safest zones to understanding where risks are higher, this tool is designed to help you navigate crime in Alton effectively. Explore the map now to get a personalized look at Alton safety and see how this historic river city measures up to your expectations.