Boone County, Missouri, is a home to around 180,000 people and spans 691 square miles. The county seat is Columbia, which is the fourth-largest city in the state and a hub for education and culture. Boone County has a diverse economy, a rich history, and plenty of attractions for both residents and visitors.
However, like any community, Boone County has its share of crime and violence. Some neighborhoods are more likely to experience criminal activity, so it’s important for residents to be aware of potential risks in these areas.
Here are the five neighborhoods in Boone County, Missouri, with the highest crime rates, based on statistics from various sources:
Centralia
Centralia is a small town in Boone County with around 4,000 residents. It’s known for the yearly Anchor Festival, its historic downtown area, and its closeness to the Mark Twain National Forest.
In 2018, Centralia had a higher rate of violent crime at 282 incidents per 100,000 people compared to the national average of 227 and the state average of 204.
Property crime was also above average, with 1,669 incidents per 100,000 residents compared to 1,581 nationally and 1,408 statewide. This means that Centralia residents have a 1 in 36 chance of experiencing any type of crime.
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Columbia (Central)
Columbia, the largest city in Boone County, is also its county seat. With a population of over 100,000, it’s home to the University of Missouri, Stephens College, and Columbia College. The city is lively and diverse, offering various cultural and recreational activities.
However, it’s important to note that the central area, including downtown and nearby neighborhoods, experiences the highest crime rates in Columbia. In 2019, according to FBI data, the city’s violent crime rate was 321 per 100,000 residents, surpassing the national average of 227 and the state average of 204.
Property crime was also higher than average in Columbia, with 2,594 incidents per 100,000 residents, compared to the national rate of 1,581 and the statewide rate of 1,408.
Specifically, the central part of Columbia had even higher rates for both violent and property crimes compared to the city as a whole. Residents of Columbia face a 1 in 31 chance of experiencing any type of crime.
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Sturgeon
Sturgeon is a small town with approximately 900 people in the northern part of Boone County. It’s known for its yearly Pinnacles Youth Park Festival, historic buildings, and countryside appeal.
In 2017, according to the latest FBI data, Sturgeon experienced a higher rate of violent crime compared to the national and state averages. The town had 445 incidents per 100,000 residents, while the national average was 227 and the state average was 204.
Property crime rates in Sturgeon were also above the national and state averages, with 1,091 incidents per 100,000 residents. Nationally, it was 1,581 and statewide, it was 1,408. Sturgeon residents have a 1 in 46 chance of experiencing some form of crime.
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Hallsville
Hallsville is a small town in the eastern part of Boone County, with around 1,000 residents. It’s well-known for its annual Fall Festival, close-knit community, and its nearness to Finger Lakes State Park.
In 2019, according to the latest FBI data, Hallsville experienced higher property crime rates compared to both the national and state averages. Specifically, there were 2,484 property crimes per 100,000 residents in Hallsville, while the national average was 1,581 and the state average was 1,408.
Violent crime rates were also above average in Hallsville, with 75 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is higher than the national rate of 227 and the statewide rate of 204. On average, a Hallsville resident has a 1 in 41 chance of experiencing any type of crime.
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Rocheport
Rocheport is a small, historic town with around 200 people in the western part of Boone County. It’s known for its beautiful location along the Missouri River, as well as its vintage stores and wineries.
In 2017, according to the latest FBI data, Rocheport had a higher property crime rate compared to both the national and state averages. Specifically, it was 2,000 incidents per 100,000 residents, while the national average was 1,581 and the state average was 1,408.
Violent crime in Rocheport was also above the national and state averages, with 500 incidents per 100,000 residents, as opposed to 227 nationally and 204 statewide. This means that residents of Rocheport have a 1 in 25 chance of experiencing any type of crime.
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Conclusion
Here are the five dangerous neighborhoods in Boone County, Missouri, according to the data and stats we have. Yet, it’s crucial to remember that crime can occur anywhere and anytime, so everyone should stay alert and careful no matter where they reside.
The most effective means to deter crime is to promptly report any odd behavior, secure doors and windows, set up security systems, and participate in local watch programs. Through collective effort, residents can enhance safety and the quality of life in Boone County.
