I know that in certain countries like Japan or South Korea: it’s normal to leave the front door unlocked since the probaility of someone breaking in is low since their crime rate isn’t high. I knew a friend of mine who resides in Korea where they even left the car unlocked with the keys inside, can you do either of those things in America?
In most cities a block really does make a difference. Where I am I wouldn’t feel afraid if I forgot to lock the door one night. I think it’s weird not to now (having a woman in the house opened my eyes to a lot of new horrors I never once had to worry about).
However, if I went 15 blocks in one direction or another, damn right I’d be sure to turn the car around to make sure I locked the door.