Who's Really Breaking In? The Age Group Most Likely to Commit Burglaries—and How to Protect Your Home

When we think of burglars, Hollywood might paint a picture of masked, experienced criminals sneaking through the night. But the truth is far more surprising—and important for every homeowner to understand.
Young Adults: The Surprising Face of Burglary
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) statistics, individuals aged 18 to 29 commit the majority of burglaries in the United States. In fact:
- The 20-29 age group is
most often arrested for burglary-related crimes.
- Teenagers aged 15-19 also
account for a large number of break-ins, often acting in groups or out of
peer pressure.
- Offenders under 15 or over
30 are less common, though not insignificant.
These stats paint a clear picture: most burglars are young, agile, and often acting impulsively. That means your home security system can't just be for show—it needs to be smart, proactive, and capable of deterring break-ins before they happen.
Why Younger Offenders Burglarize Homes
So why is this age group so involved in property crimes?
- Unemployment or lack of financial resources
- Substance abuse and addiction
- Peer pressure or gang activity
- Thrill-seeking behavior
- Lack of awareness about consequences
Because many of these break-ins are spontaneous, the presence of a strong security system is often enough to discourage the attempt altogether.
What This Means for Homeowners
If burglars are often young, quick, and opportunistic, your best defense is to be ready at all times. Here are the most effective steps you can take:
✔️ Make Your Home Less Appealing to Burglars
- Install visible cameras at all entry points.
- Use motion-detecting lights
to eliminate hiding spots.
- Place alarm signage (yard
signs, window stickers) to show your home is protected.
- Keep doors and windows locked, even when you're home.
✔️ Monitor 24/7—Even When You're Away
Most break-ins happen during the day when people are at work. That's why real-time
alerts, smart home integration, and cloud-based video storage are crucial
for modern home security.
How Ackerman Security Can Help
At Ackerman Security, we understand that protecting your home and
family goes far beyond locks and alarms. That's why we offer custom,
cutting-edge security systems that help you stay one step ahead.
🛡️ Our Most Popular Features:
- 24/7 professional monitoring with fast emergency response
- Smart indoor/outdoor cameras with two-way audio and night
vision
- Remote arming/disarming via mobile app
- Smart locks, sensors, and
doorbell cams
- Seamless integration with Samsung SmartThings, Amazon
Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit
Whether you live in Brookhaven, Atlanta, or any of the
surrounding metro areas, we design systems that fit your home, your
lifestyle, and your budget.
Ready to Protect What Matters Most?
Don't wait for a wake-up call. Take action now—because the best time to
secure your home was yesterday. The second-best time is right now.
Contact Ackerman Security today for a free consultation and custom quote. Let us help you build a smarter, safer home. Serving Metro Atlanta & Beyond.
Call Ackerman Security today at 800.552.1111 or schedule an appointment and Get a Free Security Quote.