Chicago is one of America’s most recognizable cities, known for its iconic skyline, world-famous deep-dish pizza, rich cultural attractions, and vibrant neighborhoods. However, like many major metropolitan areas, Chicago also faces ongoing public safety challenges that continue to draw national attention.
While headlines often focus on crime in the city, the reality is more nuanced. Chicago is home to dozens of diverse neighborhoods, many of which remain safe and welcoming for residents and visitors alike. Crime levels can vary significantly depending on location, time of day, and local conditions.
For travelers, new residents, and anyone considering a move to the Windy City, understanding which areas experience higher crime rates can be an important part of staying informed. This guide examines the neighborhoods with the highest reported crime rates based on the latest available statistics.
Quick Guide
- State: Illinois
- Population: Approximately 2.7 million
- Known For: Architecture, food, sports, museums, and culture
- Overall Crime Rate: 4,012.2 incidents per 100,000 residents
- Violent Crime Rate: About 540 incidents per 100,000 residents
- Property Crime Rate: 3,472.4 incidents per 100,000 residents
- National Safety Ranking: 161st out of 182 U.S. cities (WalletHub)
- Best Advice for Visitors: Stay aware of your surroundings and research neighborhoods before visiting
- Source: eufy
Is Chicago Safe?
No, overall, Chicago is not considered a safe city, but its level of danger is not as high as you might imagine. According to the 2024 crime figures released by the FBI, Chicago’s total crime rate is 4012.2 per 100,000 people, which is 89% higher than the national average of 2119.2. Its crime rate ranks 14th among the top 30 largest U.S. cities. A new safety ranking from WalletHub places Chicago 161st in overall safety out of 182 U.S. cities.
10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Chicago
Based on recent crime statistics, these neighborhoods reported some of the highest crime rates in the city.
10. South Chicago
South Chicago is the last dangerous neighborhood on this list, but its crime rate is way higher than the national average. Its total crime rate is 45.51 per 1,000 residents. The chances of becoming a victim of crime are 1 in 22.…