As crime increases nationwide more people look towards private gated communities as an answer. But its not just in Delaware that these communities are popular. They are located all over the United States.

The real question is how much protection does the gate (and wall) actually provide the residents of these communities? Without a guard, anyone with some patience can get past a gate in their car (or simply jump the fence). It would be interesting to see some crime statistics on this. Mostly I think the gate keeps out people who are just curious about the community, take a wrong turn and the lazy criminals.

These types of communities are selling a pre-packaged lifestyle, especially here in the Las Vegas housing market. Along with the extra security, there are usually other "standard" amenities that found within these places. A nice swimming pool, spa, fitness center and clubhouse are usually the norm. For those communities that are going the extra mile in amenities, 24 hour guard service on the gate and a roving security patrol is present. Without those two items, a gate gives a false sense of security. After all, the criminals already know where the nice neighborhoods are.