Belleville, IL Crime Map

Belleville Crime Map: Safety Insights for Belleville, Illinois

Introduction to Belleville and Its Safety Profile

Nestled in St. Clair County with a population of 41,256, Belleville, Illinois, offers a small-town charm with easy access to the bustling St. Louis metro area. Known for its historic architecture, vibrant community events like the annual Oktoberfest, and a deep-rooted German heritage, Belleville is a city that blends tradition with modern living. But how safe is Belleville for residents and visitors? With a city average crime score of 0.148, Belleville earns a "Very Safe" rating, corresponding to an A grade on our safety scale. This promising score suggests that much of the city provides a secure environment, though certain types of crime remain above the national average. In this guide, we'll dive into Belleville's crime statistics, safety trends, and local context, helping you understand the safety landscape. Be sure to explore our interactive Belleville crime map for detailed insights into specific areas.

Understanding Crime in Belleville, IL

Belleville's overall crime index stands at 107, slightly above the national average of 100, indicating that crime rates here are marginally higher than typical across the U.S. Breaking this down, the violent crime index is approximately 109, while the property crime index is around 116, showing that property crimes are a more significant concern for the city. Specific crime types that exceed national averages include larceny/theft, burglary, vehicle theft, and assault. Despite these figures, the distribution of safety across Belleville is overwhelmingly positive. Of the 67 city blocks analyzed, 68.7% receive an A grade (safest), 26.9% are graded B (safe), and only 4.5% fall into the C category (average). Notably, no areas in Belleville are rated D or F, meaning there are no zones classified as below average or high crime in our analysis.

Compared to other mid-sized cities in the region, Belleville holds its own as a relatively secure place to live. Its proximity to a major urban center like St. Louis can influence crime patterns, with some spillover of property crimes like theft and burglary. However, the vast majority of the city remains a safe haven for families, workers, and retirees. For a closer look at how safety varies across different parts of the city, our interactive Belleville crime map offers a detailed breakdown by block.

Factors Influencing Safety in Belleville

Economic Conditions

Economic factors play a significant role in shaping safety trends, and Belleville's profile provides a mixed picture. The median household income is $52,843, with 18% of households earning over $100,000 annually. However, the poverty rate sits at 11.9%, and unemployment is at 4.7%, both of which are close to national averages but can contribute to localized crime issues like theft. A labor force participation rate of 67% indicates a working population, though economic disparities may still influence safety in certain pockets of the city.

Population Density and Urban Layout

With a population density of 685 people per square mile, Belleville strikes a balance between suburban spaciousness and urban connectivity. This density means that while some areas experience the hustle and bustle of a busier community, others offer quieter, more residential settings. Crime often correlates with density, as more populated zones can see higher rates of property crimes due to opportunity. However, Belleville's layout and community-focused policing efforts seem to mitigate these risks effectively in most areas.

Historical and Cultural Context

Belleville's history as a hub for German immigrants in the 19th century has fostered a tight-knit community spirit that persists today. This cultural backdrop, combined with events that bring residents together, often contributes to lower crime through strong social bonds. However, as part of the greater St. Louis metro area, Belleville isn't immune to broader regional challenges, including economic shifts and urban crime trends that occasionally spill over. Understanding these dynamics helps explain why certain property crimes remain above average, even in a city with such a strong safety rating.

Living in Belleville: Lifestyle and Demographics

Life in Belleville offers affordability and a family-friendly atmosphere, making it an attractive option for many. The cost of living index is 103, just above the national average of 100, with housing at 105 and utilities also slightly elevated at 105. However, healthcare costs are below average at 97, providing some relief for residents. The median home value is $98,605, with a homeownership rate of 62%, reflecting an accessible housing market. For renters, the median rent is $817 per month, though the rent burden—32% of income—indicates that housing costs can be a challenge for some.

Demographically, Belleville is home to a diverse population with a median age of 38 years and an average family size of 3.1. About 41% of households are married, and 27% of residents hold a college degree. The average commute time is 27 minutes, often tied to jobs in the nearby St. Louis area, and veterans make up a notable 11.7% of the population, reflecting the city's proximity to military installations like Scott Air Force Base. This mix of families, professionals, and retirees creates a balanced community, though economic pressures can influence safety perceptions for some residents.

Climate and Environmental Considerations

Belleville experiences a typical Midwestern climate, with an average temperature range of 45°F to 66°F. Summers can be hot, with July highs reaching 89°F, while winters are cold, with January lows dropping to 21°F. The area sees about 40 inches of rainfall and 24 inches of snowfall annually, which can impact daily life and safety during extreme weather. More notably, Belleville faces above-average natural disaster risks, including tornadoes (221 compared to a national average of 100), earthquakes (162), and hail (291). These environmental factors don't directly correlate with crime but can influence community preparedness and resource allocation, indirectly affecting safety.

Explore Safety with Our Interactive Belleville Crime Map

Curious about how safety varies across Belleville? Our interactive Belleville crime map is your go-to tool for understanding the city's safety landscape in detail. Covering all 67 analyzed blocks, the map provides crime grades from A (safest) to F (highest crime), allowing you to see where the safest and more average-rated zones are located. Each grade reflects a combination of violent and property crime data, giving you a comprehensive view of risk levels. Whether you're planning to move, visiting, or just want to stay informed, zooming into specific areas on the map can help you make better decisions. Dive into the tool today to explore crime in Belleville at a granular level.

Safety Tips for Living in or Visiting Belleville

While Belleville boasts a strong safety rating with much of the city graded A or B, staying aware of crime patterns is always wise. Given that property crimes like larceny/theft, burglary, and vehicle theft are above the national average, securing your home and belongings should be a priority. Use sturdy locks, consider a security system, and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in vehicles. For violent crimes such as assault, which also exceed national averages, remain vigilant in busier or less familiar areas, especially at night. Simple steps like traveling in groups and staying in well-lit areas can make a big difference.

Additionally, engage with the community—Belleville's strong social fabric means neighbors often look out for each other. Report suspicious activity promptly and stay informed about local trends using resources like our Belleville crime map. For those new to the area, familiarize yourself with the layout and busier zones to better navigate potential risks. Safety is a shared responsibility, and small actions can go a long way in maintaining Belleville's reputation as a secure place to live.

Conclusion: Is Belleville Safe for You?

Belleville, Illinois, stands out as a largely safe city with a crime score of 0.148 and an A grade for overall safety. With 68.7% of the city rated as the safest possible and no areas falling into high-crime categories, it's clear that Belleville offers a secure environment for most residents and visitors. However, with property crimes like theft and burglary, as well as violent crimes like assault, sitting above national averages, awareness remains key. By understanding Belleville's crime rate and safety trends through tools like our interactive Belleville crime map, you can make informed choices about where to live, work, or explore. Whether you're drawn to the city's historic charm, affordable living, or proximity to St. Louis, knowing the ins and outs of crime in Belleville helps you stay prepared. Take a deeper look at our map today to uncover detailed Belleville crime statistics and see why this city remains a compelling place to call home.