Illinois is home to many vibrant cities, each with its unique charm and character. However, like any state, not all cities offer the same quality of life. In this article, we delve into the statistical information to shed light on what makes Cahokia stand out as one of the most challenging places to live in Illinois.
According to iHeart, Cahokia has the highest crime rate in Illinois. It has a shocking violent crime rate of 2,133 incidents per 100,000 people, more than five times the national average.
Furthermore, the rate of property crime is alarmingly high, with 5,530 instances per 100,000 people—more than double the national average. Cahokia residents have a 1 in 47 chance of becoming victims of violent crime and a 1 in 18 chance of encountering property crime.
Cahokia’s median household income is $29,403, less than half the state median of $65,886. Furthermore, the city has a high unemployment rate of 9.9%, nearly twice the state rate of 5.1%.
Education in Cahokia
Cahokia’s educational system confronts issues, with mediocre exam results, graduation rates, and finances. The city’s public schools allocate only $9,467 per pupil, which is less than the state average of $15,741.
Furthermore, the student-teacher ratio in Cahokia is 17:1, which exceeds the state norm of 15:1. Graduation rates are similar, with only 77% of Cahokia students finishing high school, compared to 87% for the state average.
Furthermore, Cahokia adults’ educational attainment is significantly lower, with only 10% having a bachelor’s degree or above, compared to the state average of 34%.
Health
Cahokia suffers serious health concerns, including high rates of obesity, diabetes, and premature death. The city has a 38% obesity rate, which exceeds the state average of 31%. In addition, its diabetes rate is 14%, which is higher than the state average of 10%. Notably, Cahokia has a 73-year life expectancy, which is lower than the state average of 79.
Economy of Cahokia
Cahokia’s economic issues include restricted growth, variety, and opportunities. The typical home value in the city is $50,900, much lower than the state median of $195,300, representing a 9.4% fall over the last decade. In comparison, the state’s housing values have increased by 3.4%.
The city’s economy is primarily reliant on a limited number of sectors, including as manufacturing, retail, and health care, which together account for more than half of total employment. Cahokia’s current job growth rate is -0.6%, compared to the state’s positive rate of 0.6%.
How Can Cahokia Improve Its Livability?
Cahokia faces various obstacles, including high crime rates, poverty, insufficient education, health problems, and financial difficulties. To improve its general quality of life, the city could consider applying the following strategies:
- Promote Public Transportation: Increase the regularity, cost, and accessibility of public transportation services to encourage people to use them instead of driving their own. In addition, plan safe walking and cycling routes to transportation stops.
- Transition to Sustainable Transportation: Reduce reliance on motorized vehicles in favor of public and active transportation alternatives. This move has the potential to reduce air and noise pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and road accidents while also improving the city’s visual and environmental quality.
- Control Pollution from Different Sources: Control emissions from industries, power plants, and waste management to improve air and water quality. This approach can reduce the health risks and expenditures connected with pollution-related disorders.
- Improve Governance and Reduce Corruption: Increase openness, accountability, and efficiency in public services to foster trust and engagement with citizens and stakeholders. Reducing corruption can help enhance overall governance.
- Implement Smart Technologies for Cost-Effectiveness: Integrate smart technologies to streamline city services, allowing resources to be allocated toward improving public transportation, emergency services, and public space maintenance. This, in turn, increases the city’s appeal to citizens.
- Promote Economic Growth and Diversity: Increase economic development by attracting and keeping enterprises, industries, and talent. Encourage innovation and entrepreneurship to foster a varied and robust economy.
Cahokia must adjust these tactics to its specific context, addressing specific needs and goals while actively including the community in decision-making processes.
Final Words
While Illinois boasts many cities with thriving communities, Cahokia stands out as one facing considerable challenges. From high crime rates to economic struggles and educational limitations, the city grapples with multiple issues that impact the quality of life for its residents. It is essential to recognize these challenges and work towards implementing solutions that can uplift the community and create a more promising future for Cahokia.
SOURCE: iHeart