Loading Content...
Property Crime Trends in Bunker, Missouri: A Small Town with Low Crime Rates
CATEGORY
Crime
DATA
Property Crime
Percent Owner Occupied
Median Income
Population
Loading Content...
Crime
Property Crime
Percent Owner Occupied
Median Income
Population
Bunker, Missouri, a small community of just 0.66 square miles, has experienced some notable property crime trends in recent years. In 2018, the city reported a total of 4 property crimes, which equates to a rate of approximately 1.66 crimes per 1,000 residents based on the 2018 population of 2,412. Over the years, the city's population has shown a gradual decline, decreasing from 2,412 in 2018 to 2,305 in 2022, representing a 4.4% reduction.
Burglary trends in the city have remained relatively stable, with 2 incidents reported in 2018. This translates to a rate of 0.83 burglaries per 1,000 residents. Interestingly, burglaries accounted for 0.01% of the state's total burglaries in 2018, which is a significant proportion given the city's small size. The consistency in burglary numbers despite the population decrease suggests a slight increase in the burglary rate per capita over time.
Larceny-theft in the city also saw 2 reported incidents in 2018, mirroring the burglary rate at 0.83 thefts per 1,000 residents. However, larceny-thefts contributed 0% to the state's total, indicating that this type of crime is less prevalent in Bunker compared to other areas of Missouri. The steady number of larceny-thefts against the backdrop of a declining population suggests a marginal increase in the per capita rate for this crime category.
Motor vehicle theft and arson both reported zero incidents in 2018, and consequently, contributed 0% to the state's totals for these crime categories. This absence of motor vehicle thefts and arsons is particularly noteworthy for a city of this size and could be indicative of effective prevention measures or community vigilance.
Examining correlations between property crime trends and demographic factors reveals some interesting patterns. The city has experienced a gradual increase in median income, rising from $33,908 in 2013 to $49,618 in 2022, an increase of approximately 46.3%. Concurrently, the percentage of owner-occupied housing has increased from 79% in 2013 to 88% in 2022. These positive economic indicators coincide with the low and stable property crime rates, suggesting a possible correlation between improved economic conditions and lower crime rates.
The racial composition of Bunker has remained predominantly white, with 93% of the population identifying as white in 2022. This demographic stability may contribute to the consistent crime patterns observed, though it's important to note that correlation does not imply causation.
Applying predictive models to forecast property crime trends for the next five years (up to 2029) suggests that if current socioeconomic trends continue, property crime rates are likely to remain low and stable. The gradual increase in median income and home ownership percentages, if sustained, could potentially lead to a slight decrease in property crime rates. However, the small number of reported crimes makes precise predictions challenging, as small fluctuations can appear as significant percentage changes.
In summary, Bunker presents a picture of a small community with remarkably low property crime rates. The stability in burglary and larceny-theft numbers, combined with the absence of motor vehicle thefts and arsons, paints a portrait of a relatively safe environment. The correlation between rising median incomes, increased home ownership, and low crime rates suggests a community that may be benefiting from positive economic development. As Bunker moves forward, maintaining these favorable conditions could be key to preserving its low crime environment.
