Madison County, situated in Idaho with a population of 12,185, is under the jurisdiction of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and Rexburg Police Department. The county boasts an overall crime rate of 1,124 per 100,000 residents, making it one of the safest regions in the United States.
Living in Madison County presents a 1 in 89 chance of falling victim to any type of crime within a year. However, safety levels vary across different neighborhoods, with some experiencing higher rates of both violent and property crimes.
This article delves into the five most dangerous neighborhoods in Madison County, utilizing the most recent crime data from CrimeGrade.org. Additionally, we will offer tips on staying secure and minimizing the risk of becoming a crime victim in these areas.
Rexburg
Rexburg, with a population of 17,888, is the largest city and county seat of Madison County.
It is home to Brigham Young University-Idaho, a private university affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Rexburg is also known for its proximity to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.
In terms of crime rates, Rexburg has a relatively low violent crime rate of 20.6 per 100,000 people, significantly below the national average of 387.8 per 100,000 people.
However, its property crime rate is 415.7 per 100,000 people, surpassing the state average of 353.9 per 100,000 people. Residents in Rexburg face a 1 in 36 chance of being a victim of property crime each year.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Bannock County, Idaho
St. Anthony
St. Anthony, situated in both Fremont and Madison Counties, has a population of 3,446 and serves as the gateway to the popular St. Anthony Sand Dunes, a recreational hotspot for off-road enthusiasts.
The city is recognized for its historic courthouse, constructed in 1909 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. St. Anthony experiences a violent crime rate of 112 per 100,000 people, surpassing the national average of 387.8 per 100,000 people.
Additionally, its property crime rate stands at 671.9 per 100,000 people, nearly double the state average of 353.9 per 100,000 people. Residents face a 1 in 15 chance of falling victim to a property crime in St. Anthony each year.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Worst City to Live in Hawaii
Rigby
Rigby, situated in both Jefferson and Madison Counties, boasts a population of 4,061 and holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Philo Farnsworth, the inventor of the television.
Notably, the city hosts the annual Spud Day festival, dedicated to celebrating the potato industry, complete with a parade, carnival, and spud tug-of-war.
In terms of safety, Rigby has a relatively low violent crime rate of 71 per 100,000 people, well below the national average of 387.8 per 100,000 people.
However, the property crime rate is notably higher at 828.4 per 100,000 people, more than double the state average of 353.9 per 100,000 people. This translates to a 1 in 12 chance of falling victim to a property crime in Rigby each year.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin
Ashton
Ashton, situated in both Fremont and Madison Counties, boasts a population of 1,052 and holds the title of the world’s largest producer of seed potatoes.
Renowned for its access to the Henrys Fork of the Snake River, a popular fly fishing spot, Ashton is also the starting point for the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, leading to the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls.
Despite its scenic attractions, Ashton faces challenges in terms of crime. With a violent crime rate of 570.3 per 100,000 people, it surpasses the national average of 387.8 per 100,000 people.
The property crime rate is even more pronounced at 855.5 per 100,000 people, more than double the state average of 353.9 per 100,000 people. Residents of Ashton have a 1 in 12 chance of falling victim to a property crime each year.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Kenosha, Wisconsin
Sugar City
Sugar City, located in Madison County and established in 1903 as a company town for the Fremont County Sugar Company, currently boasts a population of 1,514. The town is recognized for its historical landmarks, including the Sugar Salem High School and the Sugar City LDS Tabernacle, which add to its cultural significance.
However, it is essential to note the town’s crime statistics. Sugar City exhibits a violent crime rate of 1,056.7 per 100,000 people, surpassing the national average of 387.8 per 100,000 people.
Additionally, the property crime rate stands at 1,056.7 per 100,000 people, a figure three times higher than the state average of 353.9 per 100,000 people. Residents face a 1 in 9 likelihood of falling victim to property crime in Sugar City each year.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Safest Neighborhoods in Knox County, Tennessee
Conclusion
Madison County is generally considered one of the safest regions in the United States. However, there are specific neighborhoods that exhibit higher crime rates than others.
According to the latest data from CrimeGrade.org, the top five most dangerous neighborhoods in Madison County are Sugar City, Ashton, Rigby, St. Anthony, and Rexburg.
These areas experience elevated levels of both violent and property crimes compared to the county, state, and national averages. Various factors contribute to these crime rates, including economic, social, and environmental conditions.
Remaining informed and vigilant is crucial in minimizing your risk of falling victim to crime while still enjoying the beauty and diversity that Madison County has to offer.
