Chicago Crime Statistics and Safety by Neighborhood

Chicago Crime Statistics and Safety by Neighborhood

Chicago is one of America's most vibrant and culturally rich cities, home to more than 2.7 million residents across 77 distinct community areas. Like any major metropolitan area, crime rates vary dramatically from one neighborhood to the next. Whether you live in Chicago, are planning to move there, or are visiting, understanding the city's crime landscape can help you make informed decisions about where to live, work, and spend your time — and what to do if you become a victim of crime.

Overview of Chicago Crime Trends

Chicago has seen significant fluctuations in crime over the past decade. After a spike in violent crime in 2016, the city experienced a gradual decline in homicides and shootings through 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought a sharp increase in gun violence and property crime, a trend seen in cities nationwide. Since then, Chicago has seen improvements in several categories — carjackings, robberies, and burglaries have trended downward — while other categories remain above pre-pandemic levels.

The Chicago Police Department divides the city into 22 police districts, and the city government tracks crime data through its open data portal. Key statistics to understand include total reported crimes, the split between violent crimes (homicide, assault, robbery, sexual assault) and property crimes (theft, burglary, motor vehicle theft), and clearance rates (the percentage of crimes that lead to an arrest).

It is important to note that crime statistics do not tell the full story. Many crimes go unreported, and factors like poverty, disinvestment, access to education, and historical policies like redlining have shaped the geography of crime in Chicago for decades.

Safest Neighborhoods in Chicago

Several Chicago neighborhoods consistently rank among the safest in the city based on crime data. These areas tend to have lower rates of both violent and property crime.

Edison Park is a small, tight-knit community on the far northwest side, bordering the suburbs. It regularly reports some of the lowest crime rates in the city. Edison Park has a suburban feel with single-family homes, local businesses, and a strong sense of community. Norwood Park, adjacent to Edison Park, shares many of the same characteristics — low crime rates, a family-oriented atmosphere, and good access to public transit via the Blue Line. Lincoln Park is one of Chicago's most popular neighborhoods, known for its park, zoo, and proximity to the lakefront. While it is more urban and densely populated than Edison Park, Lincoln Park has relatively low violent crime rates, though property crime — particularly theft — does occur. Forest Glen and North Center are quieter residential neighborhoods with low crime rates, excellent schools, and a mix of young families and long-time residents. Mount Greenwood on the far south side is another consistently safe neighborhood, with strong community ties and a low incidence of violent crime. Beverly is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and active community organizations. It has one of the lower crime rates on the south side of Chicago.

Areas with Higher Crime Rates

Some Chicago neighborhoods experience disproportionately high levels of violent crime. These areas have been affected by decades of economic disinvestment, lack of access to quality education and jobs, and other systemic factors.

Austin on the west side is the largest community area by population and has among the highest numbers of reported violent crimes. Gun violence, in particular, is a persistent challenge. Englewood and West Englewood on the south side have long been associated with high rates of homicide and aggravated assault. These neighborhoods have been the focus of significant community investment and violence intervention programs in recent years. North Lawndale, Garfield Park (East and West), and Roseland also report higher-than-average rates of violent crime. The Loop and Near North Side — Chicago's central business and entertainment districts — have lower violent crime rates but higher property crime rates, including theft, pickpocketing, and retail crime. Visitors and commuters in these areas should be aware of their surroundings and protect personal belongings.

Types of Crime: Property vs. Violent

Understanding the distinction between property crime and violent crime is important when evaluating neighborhood safety.

Property crimes include theft (the most commonly reported crime in Chicago), burglary, motor vehicle theft, and arson. These crimes affect residents citywide, including in otherwise safe neighborhoods. Keeping vehicles locked, securing homes, and being mindful of personal property in public spaces are basic precautions. Violent crimes include homicide, aggravated assault, robbery, and sexual assault. These crimes are more concentrated geographically. The vast majority of gun violence in Chicago occurs in a relatively small number of neighborhoods and often involves individuals known to each other.

What to Do If You Are a Crime Victim in Chicago

If you become a victim of crime in Chicago, taking the right steps can protect your safety, preserve your legal rights, and improve the chances of justice.

Ensure your immediate safety. If you are in danger, call 911. Move to a safe location if possible. Do not confront or pursue a suspect. Report the crime to police. File a police report as soon as possible. You can call 911 for emergencies, 311 for non-emergencies, or visit your local police district to file a report in person. Online reporting is available for certain non-emergency crimes through the Chicago Police Department website. Keep a copy of your case number — you will need it for insurance claims and any future legal proceedings. Seek medical attention. If you are injured, seek medical treatment immediately. Document your injuries through photographs and medical records. Preserve evidence. Do not clean up a crime scene, wash clothing, or discard damaged items until police have had an opportunity to collect evidence. Take photos of the scene, damage, and any relevant details. Contact victim services. The Cook County State's Attorney's Office has a Victim-Witness Assistance Unit that can provide support, information about the court process, and referrals to services. Organizations like the Chicago Children's Advocacy Center, the Network (for domestic violence), and RAINN (for sexual assault) offer specialized assistance.

Knowing Your Legal Rights in Illinois

As a crime victim in Illinois, you have specific rights under the Illinois Rights of Crime Victims and Witnesses Act and the Illinois Constitution.

Right to be notified. You have the right to be informed about the status of the criminal case, including court dates, plea agreements, and the release of the offender. Right to be heard. You can make a victim impact statement at sentencing and at parole hearings. Your voice matters in the court process. Right to restitution. If the offender is convicted, the court can order them to pay restitution to compensate you for financial losses resulting from the crime, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Right to protection. You can request an order of protection if you are being threatened or harassed by the offender or their associates. Right to privacy. Illinois law protects the privacy of crime victims in certain circumstances, including limiting the disclosure of personal information. Crime Victims Compensation. The Illinois Attorney General's Office administers a Crime Victims Compensation program that can reimburse victims for certain out-of-pocket expenses, including medical bills, counseling, lost wages, and funeral expenses. Applications must generally be filed within two years of the crime.

If you have been accused of a crime in Chicago, or if you are a victim seeking to understand your legal options, speaking with a qualified criminal defense or victims' rights attorney can help you navigate the system and protect your interests.

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