Monticello, MN Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Monticello, MN

What is Monticello's overall crime grade?

Monticello earns an A overall crime grade, placing it among the safest communities in Minnesota. This top-tier rating reflects the city's consistently low incident rates across both property and violent crime categories. With a population of approximately 13,700 and a population density of just 596 residents per square mile, Monticello's relatively spread-out layout contributes to fewer crime hotspots compared to denser urban centers. Residents in neighborhoods near Monticello Community Park and the areas north of downtown consistently report feeling secure, and that community sentiment aligns with the data behind the A grade.

What is the crime rate in Monticello, MN?

Monticello's crime rate is well below state and national averages, a key reason the city holds an A crime grade. Property crimes — including theft, vandalism, and vehicle break-ins — account for the vast majority of reported incidents, while violent crime remains rare. The city's socioeconomic profile supports this low-crime environment: a median household income of $71,399, an unemployment rate of just 2.8%, and a poverty rate of 9.5% all correlate strongly with community stability. Research consistently shows that cities with low unemployment and moderate-to-strong household incomes experience significantly fewer crimes per capita, and Monticello's numbers reflect exactly that pattern.

Is Monticello, MN safe to live in?

Yes — Monticello is considered one of the safer small cities in the Twin Cities metro region. Its A overall crime grade signals that the vast majority of residents go about daily life without encountering criminal activity. The city's median home value of $214,582 and median rent of $1,094 reflect a stable, owner-occupied housing market, which research links to lower rates of property crime. Active neighborhood watch participation near the Northbrook and Highland residential areas, combined with consistent Monticello Police Department patrols along the Highway 25 corridor and near Monticello High School, keeps incident rates low. Families, retirees, and young professionals alike regularly cite safety as a top reason for choosing Monticello.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Monticello?

While Monticello as a whole earns an A crime grade, certain neighborhoods stand out for their particularly low incident activity. Residential zones in the northern part of the city — including areas near Northbrook and Highland — benefit from well-maintained streets, high homeownership rates, and strong community engagement. Neighborhoods adjacent to Monticello Community Park and those surrounding Monticello Middle School are frequently cited by residents as quiet and family-friendly. The city's low population density of 596 people per square mile means that even busier commercial corridors near downtown see far less crime pressure than comparable areas in larger metro cities. No single neighborhood in Monticello carries a poor safety rating.

How does Monticello's crime rate compare to other Minnesota cities?

Monticello's A crime grade puts it in the top tier of Minnesota municipalities for public safety. Cities of similar size often score in the B or C range due to higher poverty rates or unemployment — Monticello's 2.8% unemployment rate and 9.5% poverty rate are meaningfully lower than many peer communities, which directly suppresses crime frequency. Compared to larger metro areas, Monticello residents face a substantially lower likelihood of experiencing property crime or violent crime. The city's combination of economic stability, low density, and proactive policing gives it a measurable safety advantage over the Minnesota statewide average.

What types of crime are most common in Monticello?

As is typical for cities with an A crime grade, the most commonly reported incidents in Monticello fall into the property crime category — primarily minor theft, occasional vehicle break-ins, and vandalism. Violent crime, including assault and robbery, is statistically rare given the city's demographic and economic profile. The low unemployment rate of 2.8% and relatively high median household income of $71,399 are significant factors: communities with strong economic indicators consistently report lower rates of both opportunistic theft and violent offenses. Residents near commercial areas along Highway 25 should exercise standard precautions like locking vehicles, but serious crime is not a defining characteristic of daily life in Monticello.

Is Monticello a good place to buy a home from a safety perspective?

From a safety standpoint, Monticello is an excellent choice for homebuyers. The city's A overall crime grade, combined with a median home value of $214,582 and a stable economic base, makes it an attractive and low-risk investment. Low crime rates protect property values over time — neighborhoods with sustained safety records, such as those in the Northbrook and Highland areas, tend to see steadier appreciation. The city's median household income of $71,399 and 2.8% unemployment rate signal a community where residents are financially stable, which in turn supports neighborhood upkeep and deters property crime. For buyers prioritizing both safety and affordability, Monticello checks both boxes.