Mesa, Arizona, boasts a diverse population of over 500,000 individuals residing within its multifaceted landscape. While some districts within the city are renowned for their historical significance, cultural vibrancy, and picturesque scenery, others unfortunately face challenges associated with crime, dilapidated housing, and difficult living conditions.
This analysis delves into the five most vulnerable areas within Mesa, identified by their significantly higher rates of violent crimes per 100,000 residents compared to the city’s overall average. These crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery, and assault.
Mesa’s crime rate exceeds the state average for Arizona, yet falls below the national average. In 2020, Mesa recorded 205 crimes per 100,000 residents, representing a 1.2% decrease compared to the national average but exceeding 76.2% of U.S. cities. Notably, Mesa experienced a 104% increase in overall crime compared to the previous year, with West Central exhibiting the highest concentration of crime at 872 occurrences per 100,000 residents. This translates to a 1 in 18 chance of experiencing a crime in this specific area.
High-Risk Areas:
- West Central: This southwest-located district, situated near the intersection of Alma School Road and Country Club Drive, exhibits a concerning 104% increase in serious crimes compared to the Mesa average. While attractions like the Mesa Arts Center, the Arizona Museum of Natural History, and the Desert Botanical Garden are nearby, the area’s high crime rate presents a significant challenge.
- Downtown: This centrally located district, near Main Street and Monroe Street, boasts the Mesa Performing Arts Center, the Mill Avenue Historic District, and the Arizona State Capitol as prominent landmarks. However, it also grapples with a 79% increase in serious crimes compared to the city average, coupled with lower median home values and income levels.
- Sunland Village East: Situated in the southeast corner of Mesa near East Baseline Road and Sunland Village Drive, this district exhibits a 15% increase in serious crimes compared to the city average. While offering attractions like Sunland Park Golf Course, Sunland Park Shopping Center, and Sunland Park Elementary School, the area’s median home value and income levels remain below the city average.
- Rancho Del Mar: Located in the northwest corner of Mesa near N. Dobson Road and Rancho Del Mar Drive, this district experiences slightly less crime than the city average. However, it faces challenges with low median home values and income levels, contributing to its designation as a less desirable area.
- Mesa Grande: Situated in the northeast corner of Mesa near the intersection of E. Baseline Road and N. Dobson Road, this district exhibits the lowest crime rate among the five analyzed, yet it still falls below the city average. While the area boasts a larger population compared to the others, its median home value and income levels remain significantly lower.
Conclusion:
This analysis identifies five areas within Mesa, Arizona, exhibiting significantly higher rates of violent crime compared to the city’s average. These areas grapple with poverty, unemployment, and limited access to quality education, social services, and resources. Addressing these underlying factors is crucial to mitigate crime and improve the quality of life for residents. It is important to note that this analysis solely focuses on crime statistics and does not intend to stigmatize any specific community or individual.