Is Bloomington MN Safe? – Crime Rates and Statistics

Bloomington, Minnesota, is a city known for its suburban charm and proximity to the Twin Cities. However, for residents and potential visitors, understanding the safety of Bloomington is crucial. Is Bloomington MN safe? 

This question often arises when considering the city’s crime rates and overall livability. This article delves into various aspects of Bloomington’s safety, providing a comprehensive analysis based on the latest crime statistics and safety data.

Is Bloomington MN Safe?

Bloomington, Minnesota, presents a mixed picture when it comes to safety. The city has a total crime rate that is 74% higher than the national average, with about 9.81 daily crimes per 100,000 residents. 

This includes both violent and property crimes, although violent crime rates are slightly below the national average. Specifically, residents face a 1 in 343 chance of becoming victims of violent crime, which is relatively low compared to other urban areas in the United States. 

However, property crimes are much more common, with a 1 in 27 chance of being victimized. This means that while Bloomington’s violent crime rate is not excessively high, property crime is a significant concern, contributing to the city’s overall lower safety rating.

Over the past year, crime in Bloomington has shown a slight increase, particularly in property crimes, which have risen by about 7.2%. This uptick highlights ongoing challenges in managing theft and vehicle-related crimes. 

However, violent crime has seen a marginal decrease of 1.5%, offering some reassurance to residents and visitors. Bloomington is generally safer than 22% of cities across the United States, but it lags behind many other cities in Minnesota in terms of overall safety. 

Neighborhood choice within the city is crucial, as areas like Marsh Lake Park and Nord Myr Park are notably safer than others, such as the Northeast neighborhood, which sees higher crime rates.

Bloomington Crime Rate Overview

As of 2024, Bloomington, MN, presents a mixed picture in terms of crime and safety. The overall crime rate in Bloomington is significantly higher than the national average, standing at about 74% above the U.S. norm. Residents experience an average of 9.81 daily crimes per 100,000 people, with property crimes being particularly prevalent. Specifically, Bloomington records approximately 38 property crimes per 1,000 residents, which is nearly double the national rate. 

On the other hand, violent crime is less of an issue, with rates slightly below the national average but still concerning for some residents. For instance, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Bloomington is about 1 in 343.

Despite the overall high crime rate, there are significant variations within the city. The northeast part of Bloomington tends to experience higher crime rates, particularly in areas with dense retail activity, which skews crime statistics due to the influx of non-residents during business hours. 

Conversely, the southern part of the city is generally considered safer, with significantly lower rates of violent crime. It’s also worth noting that the crime rate in Bloomington has increased by approximately 6.5% over the past year, driven largely by a rise in property crimes, which underscores the need for continued vigilance among residents.

Violent Crime in Bloomington

Violent crime in Bloomington, MN, has become a significant concern for residents and visitors alike. The city experiences a violent crime rate of approximately 5.1 incidents per 1,000 residents, placing it in the bottom 4th percentile for safety across U.S. cities—meaning that 96% of cities in the U.S. are considered safer. 

This crime rate includes various forms of violent offenses such as assault, robbery, rape, and murder. Assault is particularly prevalent, accounting for the majority of violent crimes with a rate of about 4.25 per 1,000 residents. 

In contrast, incidents of murder and rape occur less frequently but still contribute to the overall sense of insecurity in certain areas, especially in the northeastern parts of the city.

The distribution of violent crime in Bloomington is not uniform, with the northeastern neighborhoods experiencing the highest rates. In these areas, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime can be as high as 1 in 37. 

Conversely, the southern parts of Bloomington, particularly more residential and suburban areas, report significantly lower rates of violent crime, with some neighborhoods having as low as a 1 in 829 chance of victimization. 

These disparities highlight the importance of neighborhood choice when considering safety in Bloomington. Additionally, many of the reported crimes in high-crime areas occur in commercial zones with high traffic, which can skew the perception of safety for residents.

Property Crime in Bloomington

Property crime in Bloomington, MN, remains a significant concern, with the city experiencing property crime rates higher than both the state and national averages. Specifically, Bloomington records approximately 38.41 property crimes per 1,000 residents, which include burglary, theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. 

The risk of being a victim of property crime in Bloomington is about 1 in 26, which is considerably higher than the Minnesota state average of 1 in 51. This elevated rate places Bloomington in the bottom 28th percentile for safety compared to other U.S. cities, indicating that the city is less safe than 72% of communities across the country.

The distribution of property crimes within Bloomington is uneven, with the northeast part of the city, which has a higher concentration of retail establishments, experiencing the highest rates. 

In contrast, the southwest areas, which are more residential, report significantly lower crime rates. The high incidence of theft, particularly vehicle-related crimes, contributes to Bloomington’s overall lower safety rating. 

The year-over-year data shows that while violent crimes have decreased slightly, property crimes have risen by 7.2%, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and possibly enhanced security measures for residents and businesses in the area. 

Is Mall of America Dangerous?

The safety of the Mall of America in Bloomington, MN, has been a topic of discussion, particularly following recent incidents. While the Mall of America remains a popular tourist destination, it has experienced a series of disturbances, including fights and other disruptions, which have raised concerns about visitor safety. 

The Bloomington Police have been actively responding to these incidents, increasing their presence and urging the community to remain vigilant. Despite these efforts, the perception of safety at the mall varies, with some visitors expressing anxiety about potential dangers. 

To address these concerns, the Mall of America has tightened security measures and continues to collaborate closely with local law enforcement. Events such as “Cops and Joggers” aim to bridge the gap between the police and the community, fostering better communication and a safer environment. 

While the mall has seen its share of issues, the heightened security and community engagement efforts are steps toward maintaining its status as a safe and welcoming destination.

Safe Neighborhoods in Bloomington

Bloomington, MN, offers a variety of neighborhoods that stand out for their safety and family-friendly environments. Among these, West Bloomington is frequently highlighted as one of the safest areas in the city. 

This neighborhood is characterized by its expansive green spaces, parks, and suburban feel, making it an attractive option for families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The southwest part of Bloomington, in general, is considered the safest, with crime rates significantly lower than other parts of the city. 

Residents in this area experience a lower likelihood of crime, with statistics showing a much lower crime rate compared to the northeastern neighborhoods, where the risk of being a victim of crime is higher.

Another notable neighborhood is Heritage Hills, which is also praised for its safety and community feel. Like West Bloomington, this area benefits from its residential nature and active neighborhood watch programs, which contribute to its overall safety. 

The combination of well-maintained homes, local amenities, and strong community ties makes these neighborhoods particularly appealing for those prioritizing safety in their choice of residence. 

Additionally, access to nature preserves and recreational areas in these neighborhoods adds to the quality of life while maintaining a low crime profile.

High-Crime Areas in Bloomington

In Bloomington, MN, certain areas are known for having higher crime rates, particularly in the northeastern part of the city. This region, which includes neighborhoods with higher population density and more commercial activity, tends to experience more frequent incidents of both violent and property crimes. 

Specifically, the chance of being a victim of crime in these northeastern neighborhoods can be as high as 1 in 13, significantly higher than in other parts of the city. Factors contributing to these elevated crime rates include the concentration of retail establishments and the influx of non-residents during business hours, which can inflate crime statistics and create a perception of danger even in otherwise safe areas.

On the other hand, the southwestern part of Bloomington is considered much safer, with crime rates substantially lower. In these neighborhoods, the likelihood of encountering crime drops to about 1 in 58, making them some of the safest areas in the city. 

The crime map for Bloomington highlights these disparities, showing the northeast in red, indicating higher crime, while the southwest appears in green, reflecting its status as a safer area. This variation underscores the importance of neighborhood choice when considering safety in Bloomington, especially for residents and potential homebuyers.

Is Bloomington MN a Good Place to Live?

Bloomington, MN, is consistently recognized as one of the best places to live in the United States, particularly for families and professionals. The city’s prime location in the Twin Cities metro area provides easy access to Minneapolis, making it a convenient spot for those who work in the city but prefer suburban living. 

Bloomington boasts top-notch schools, a strong economy, and an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, contributing to a high quality of life for its residents. The presence of major employers like HealthPartners, Toro, and Seagate Technology, along with the Mall of America, offers ample job opportunities across various sectors, making Bloomington a hub of economic activity.

Moreover, Bloomington’s commitment to community well-being is evident in its public services and amenities. The city is home to excellent healthcare facilities and educational institutions, including Normandale Community College and Northwestern Health Sciences University. 

These institutions not only provide education but also contribute to the local economy by keeping the workforce competitive. Bloomington’s diverse recreational offerings, from extensive parks and trails to cultural venues, ensure that residents have a well-rounded lifestyle. Additionally, the city’s efforts toward inclusivity and racial equity make it a welcoming place for people from all walks of life.

For those considering a move to Bloomington, it’s advisable to hire a moving company. Professional Bloomington, MN movers can help transport your belongings safely and efficiently, making the relocation process much smoother. 

Moreover, they can offer valuable assistance in familiarizing you with the city, from identifying the best routes for commuting to introducing you to local amenities. 

Bloomington’s transportation infrastructure, including well-maintained roads and an active transportation plan, further supports an easy transition into the city, ensuring that new residents can quickly settle in and start exploring everything Bloomington has to offer.

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Written by Billy Guteng. September 3, 2024

Billy is a content writer for Kukun. He was born in France, and has lived in multiple cities around the world ever since. He loves art, design and architecture as well as construction and real estate.