Rutland County, located in Vermont, has around 60,000 residents and ranks as the state’s second most populated county, following Chittenden County. The county boasts picturesque natural views, significant historical locations, and options for outdoor activities.
Nonetheless, not all areas within the county offer the same level of safety and tranquility. A few neighborhoods experience elevated levels of crime and violence, rendering them less secure for both inhabitants and tourists.
Within this Article, we will delve into the top five dangerous neighborhoods in Rutland County, drawing from the most recent crime statistics sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau and other reliable outlets.
Rutland City Center
The city center of Rutland, situated in Rutland County, serving as its county seat and largest urban area, is identified as the most unsafe locality within the county. As per data from NeighborhoodScout, the city center exhibits a violent crime rate of 7.8 per 1,000 residents, significantly surpassing the national average of 2.3 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Correspondingly, the incidence of property crimes is also notably elevated, reaching 55.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 21.1 incidents per 1,000 residents.
HomeSnacks’ records indicate that Rutland bears a poverty rate of 18.8%, which is higher than the statewide average of 10.2%. Concurrently, the unemployment rate within Rutland exceeds the state average, registering at 5.6% as opposed to the state’s 3.2%.
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West Rutland
West Rutland, situated in Rutland County, shares a border with Rutland City to its western side. With a populace of approximately 2,000 individuals, the town experiences a violent crime rate of 5 incidents for every 1,000 residents. Property crime is also prevalent, registering at 32 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Once a bustling industrial hub producing marble and slate for diverse applications, West Rutland underwent a decline in these sectors during the latter half of the 20th century. This downturn led to economic challenges and a reduction in population. Presently, West Rutland primarily serves as a residential enclave, drawing income from tourism and agriculture.
As per HomeSnacks, the poverty rate in West Rutland stands at 16%, surpassing the state average of 10.2%. Unemployment is also elevated compared to the state’s norm, at 5% in contrast to 3.2%. Additionally, West Rutland has not escaped the grasp of the opioid epidemic affecting Rutland County and the entirety of Vermont.
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Fair Haven
Fair Haven, situated in Rutland County and bordering Rutland City to the southwest, is home to approximately 2,700 residents. The town faces a violent crime rate of 4 incidents per 1,000 inhabitants and a considerable property crime rate of 31 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Originally established as a mill town, Fair Haven played a vital role in the production of iron and wood products for diverse industries. Its significance as a transportation hub facilitated connections between Vermont, New York, and Canada through railroads and canals.
Presently, Fair Haven is primarily recognized as a residential area, drawing in visitors with its historic structures and scenic parks. According to HomeSnacks, the town’s poverty rate of 15.9% surpasses the state average of 10.2%.
Unemployment in Fair Haven also exceeds the state’s norm, standing at 4.8% as opposed to 3.2%. Moreover, the town has not been immune to the opioid crisis impacting Rutland County and Vermont at large.
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Rutland East
Rutland East, situated within Rutland City, encompasses the city’s eastern sector. It is home to roughly 5,000 residents and experiences a violent crime rate of 3.6 per 1,000 inhabitants. The incidence of property crimes is similarly notable, with a rate of 28.7 per 1,000 residents.
This diverse neighborhood accommodates residential, commercial, and industrial zones. It is also the location of Rutland Regional Medical Center, the county’s largest hospital. Unfortunately, Rutland East also witnesses some of the city’s crime and violence, including instances of assault, burglary, theft, and vandalism.
As reported by HomeSnacks, Rutland East contends with an 18% poverty rate, surpassing the state’s average of 10.2%. The unemployment rate also exceeds the state norm, reaching 5.5% compared to 3.2%. Moreover, Rutland East is not immune to the opioid crisis affecting Rutland County and Vermont at large.
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Castleton
Castleton, situated south of Rutland City in Rutland County, is home to approximately 4,700 residents. Its violent crime rate stands at 3 incidents per 1,000 residents, while the property crime rate is notably high at 27 incidents per 1,000 residents.
The town is renowned as the location of Castleton University, a public liberal arts college with an enrollment of around 2,000 students. With historical roots dating back to colonial times, Castleton boasts various landmarks and museums. Regrettably, the town also experiences its share of criminal activity, including instances of robbery, assault, theft, and even sexual assault.
The town’s elevated crime rates share common threads with those observed in Fair Haven, encompassing factors like poverty, unemployment, drug misuse, and gang involvement. According to HomeSnacks, Castleton exhibits a poverty rate of 15.6%, surpassing the state average of 10.2%. Similarly, its unemployment rate of 4.7% is higher compared to the state’s average of 3.2%.
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Conclusion
Rutland County boasts a rich blend of scenic beauty and diversity, providing an array of attractions and prospects for both residents and tourists. Nevertheless, certain neighborhoods within the county exhibit greater levels of risk due to factors like poverty, unemployment, drug dependency, and gang involvement.
Consequently, these areas record elevated rates of crime and violence, surpassing the county and national averages. This scenario diminishes the safety and tranquility for those who reside or operate businesses in these localities.
For those contemplating a visit or a relocation to Rutland County, it is imperative to recognize these neighborhoods and the associated hazards. Taking precautions to safeguard yourself and your belongings is also advisable. This approach enables you to relish the finest offerings of Rutland County without compromising your personal safety and overall well-being.
