Impact of Income Inequality on Crime Rates in Urban Areas

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of income inequality on crime rates in urban areas. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study indicated that higher levels of income inequality often lead to increased crime rates, particularly violent crimes such as homicides and robberies. This correlation can be attributed to several socio-economic factors. Disparities in income create a sense of relative deprivation among lower-income individuals, who may resort to criminal activities out of frustration, necessity, or as a means to achieve a perceived sense of equity. Additionally, neighborhoods with high-income inequality often suffer from social disorganization, weakening social bonds and community oversight that typically deter criminal behavior. Limited access to quality education, employment opportunities, and social services further exacerbates this issue, leaving marginalized populations with fewer legitimate pathways to improve their socio-economic status. Consequently, urban areas with pronounced income inequality tend to experience higher crime rates, highlighting the need for policies aimed at reducing economic disparities to foster safer and more cohesive communities. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social disorganization theory, strain theory and relative deprivation theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of income inequality on crime rates in urban areas. Implementing community-based programs that focus on strengthening social cohesion and providing support to vulnerable populations can effectively mitigate the effects of income inequality on crime. Governments should adopt progressive taxation policies to redistribute wealth more equitably and fund essential social welfare programs.