Peoria County, situated in the central region of Illinois, has an approximate population of 180,000 residents. Its principal city and largest urban center is Peoria, ranking as the seventh-largest city in the entire state.
The county is renowned for its varied economy, significant history, and cultural points of interest, which encompass attractions like the Peoria Riverfront Museum, the Caterpillar Visitors Center, and the Peoria Zoo.
Nevertheless, not all areas within the county provide a secure and tranquil environment. As indicated by crime statistics sourced from CrimeGrade.org, specific neighborhoods within Peoria County exhibit elevated levels of both violent and property-related crimes, surpassing the national average.
Presented below are five of the most precarious neighborhoods within Peoria County, delineated based on the crime rate per capita map:
South Side:
South Side constitutes a district within Peoria, positioned to the south of the downtown area. Characterized by its predominantly African American residents, this neighborhood falls into the low-income category. The crime incidence on the South Side is recorded at 74.8 for every 1,000 inhabitants, surpassing the county’s average of 23.6 by over threefold.
The community grapples with elevated occurrences of serious offenses such as homicide, sexual assault, robbery, physical assault, break-ins, and theft. Additionally, South Side is acknowledged for its challenges related to drug-related issues and the presence of organized gangs.
Also Read:
North Valley:
North Valley represents an additional community within Peoria, situated to the north of the downtown area. This district holds historical significance and encompasses a blend of both residential and industrial land uses.
In terms of safety, North Valley exhibits a crime rate of 64.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, surpassing the county’s average by over two times. The locality experiences elevated occurrences of robbery, assault, burglary, theft, and arson. Additionally, North Valley grapples with environmental concerns, notably relating to air quality deterioration and soil pollution.
Also Read:
East Bluff:
East Bluff constitutes a Peoria neighborhood positioned to the east of the downtown area. This suburban locale boasts a heterogeneous community and a wide array of housing selections.
The crime rate within East Bluff stands at 51.9 incidents per 1,000 inhabitants, surpassing the county’s average by over two-fold. This region experiences elevated occurrences of break-ins, theft, automobile theft, and vandalism. Furthermore, East Bluff is susceptible to natural calamities such as floods and storms.
Also Read:
West Bluff:
West Bluff stands as one more district within Peoria, positioned to the west of the downtown core. This locale bears historical significance, boasting numerous notable sites and draws. These include Bradley University, Glen Oak Park, and the Moss-Bradley Residential Historic District.
It’s worth noting that West Bluff carries a crime rate of 46.7 per 1,000 inhabitants, nearly twice the county’s average. The area experiences elevated incidences of robbery, assault, burglary, theft, and drug-related offenses. Furthermore, West Bluff has gained notoriety for its issues with traffic congestion and the accompanying noise pollution.
Also Read:
Bartonville:
Bartonville stands as a village within Peoria County, situated to the southwest of Peoria itself. This region holds a rural character and is home to approximately 6,500 individuals. Notably, Bartonville exhibits a crime rate of 43 for every 1,000 residents, surpassing the average for the county.
The village experiences elevated occurrences of assault, burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft. Additionally, Bartonville has gained repute for its eerie past and occurrences of paranormal activity.
Also Read:
Conclusion
These neighborhoods within Peoria County, Illinois, stand out as particularly unsafe. Despite having certain positive qualities and room for enhancement, they also present notable hazards and difficulties for both their inhabitants and those who come to visit. It is recommended to be vigilant and mindful while journeying through or residing in these regions.
