I am interested in purchasing a house in a city that has suffered from an economic crisis and loss of jobs due to the transfer of manufacturing industries overseas. As a result of this crisis, housing prices in this area have fallen drastically and it is for this reason that I am interested in purchasing a home in this area.

However, I have a relative who is advising against this plan, who says that when people move out, crime moves in. Do you know whether this is an established phenomenon?

Will appreciate advise on this matter.

KB

I haven't heard that this is a direct cause of increased crime. But you have to think, if your buying a house on a deserted street kids or criminals could hang out in the other empty houses for fun (or yes criminal activities).

I would just look around the neighborhood. If most houses are still occupied I wouldn't worry about it too much. How many people have left this city? Or what percentage?