The US has seen a remarkable decline in property crime, including burglary and robbery, over the past three decades. Since 1990, these crimes have fallen by more than 80 percent nationwide, with the overall property crime rate plummeting to its lowest level since national data began in 1976 – an even steeper drop than violent crime. Wealthy suburbs like Winnetka, where the classic Christmas movie Home Alone was set, have seen rates fall by over 60 percent.
So, what changed? The answer lies in a combination of factors. Firstly, homes and apartments are now harder to burglarize due to better locks, alarms, outdoor lighting, and increased security measures like controlled entry systems and doorbell cameras. These measures make burglary less profitable and more likely to fail. Secondly, the value of stolen goods has decreased significantly since 1990 due to advancements in technology, making it easier to track and disable electronics. Finally, the shift from cash-based transactions to digital payments has reduced the expected take for thieves.
The impact of these changes can be seen in the data. In 1990, there were an estimated 53 burglaries per 100,000 residents in Winnetka, a relatively low rate compared to other cities like Chicago. However, by 2024, this number had fallen to fewer than 1 burglary per 100,000 people – a staggering 95% decline.
While crime has decreased overall, it's essential to note that some types of property crimes have evolved and become more sophisticated. The rise of online scams, account takeovers, and identity fraud has led to significant financial losses for Americans. According to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center, reported losses from internet-related crimes reached $16.6 billion in 2024.
In conclusion, the decline in property crime is a testament to the effectiveness of security measures and changes in consumer behavior. As our environment continues to evolve, it's crucial to stay vigilant and adapt to new forms of crime that may emerge.
So, what changed? The answer lies in a combination of factors. Firstly, homes and apartments are now harder to burglarize due to better locks, alarms, outdoor lighting, and increased security measures like controlled entry systems and doorbell cameras. These measures make burglary less profitable and more likely to fail. Secondly, the value of stolen goods has decreased significantly since 1990 due to advancements in technology, making it easier to track and disable electronics. Finally, the shift from cash-based transactions to digital payments has reduced the expected take for thieves.
The impact of these changes can be seen in the data. In 1990, there were an estimated 53 burglaries per 100,000 residents in Winnetka, a relatively low rate compared to other cities like Chicago. However, by 2024, this number had fallen to fewer than 1 burglary per 100,000 people – a staggering 95% decline.
While crime has decreased overall, it's essential to note that some types of property crimes have evolved and become more sophisticated. The rise of online scams, account takeovers, and identity fraud has led to significant financial losses for Americans. According to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center, reported losses from internet-related crimes reached $16.6 billion in 2024.
In conclusion, the decline in property crime is a testament to the effectiveness of security measures and changes in consumer behavior. As our environment continues to evolve, it's crucial to stay vigilant and adapt to new forms of crime that may emerge.