Relationship Between Crime Rate of Residential Burglary and Local Context

This study aimed to assess the risk of residential burglary by examining factors representing the physical and socio-demographic context of the neighborhoods. Structural equation modeling was employed to establish their relationship. The main findings of this study provide evidence-based insights on crime reduction. Particularly, higher density, a larger family size, and daytime population reduced the risk, potentially enhancing natural surveillance. Conversely, neighborhoods with a high rate of rented houses exhibited a higher risk, while those with a high building coverage ratio demonstrated an increased risk, and those with a high floor area ratio demonstrated low risk. In conclusion, considering community safety as an integral aspect of quality of life, a holistic approach is suggested.