25 Most Dangerous Cities in Illinois

The state of Illinois is known for its vibrant cities and rich history. However, it grapples with challenges related to crime rates. While many residents and visitors enjoy peaceful experiences, some cities have gained notoriety for higher levels of danger. Knowing about these locations helps shed light on social issues and inform decisions regarding safety and lifestyle. In this post, we will explore the 25 most dangerous cities in Illinois.

1. Chicago

Chicago, the third largest city in the United States, is rich in culture but struggles with crime. With over 2.7 million people, it has a violent crime rate of about 1,200 incidents per 100,000 residents—well above the national average of 404 per 100,000. Gun violence and gang-related crimes impact neighborhoods differently, revealing vast disparities within the city.

For instance, neighborhoods like Englewood report significantly higher crime rates, while areas such as Lincoln Park remain relatively safe. Understanding these contexts is vital for anyone navigating the city.

2. East St. Louis

East St. Louis is notorious for high crime rates, particularly violent and property crimes. With a population around 27,000, it experiences a staggering robbery rate of 2,800 incidents per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 145. The signs of economic decline and disinvestment are evident, further fuelling social instability.

Efforts to improve community safety, like neighborhood watch programs, and initiatives for economic development could help change the narrative in East St. Louis.

3. Rockford

Rockford has faced persistent crime challenges. Once thriving with manufacturing, it now has approximately 147,000 residents and a violent crime rate of 786 per 100,000. This is significantly above the U.S. average. Home burglaries and aggravated assaults are common, making it crucial for residents to stay informed about local crime statistics.

Community outreach efforts and crime prevention programs are essential as Rockford continues to navigate these challenges.

4. Peoria

Peoria, with nearly 113,000 residents, struggles with crime, particularly theft and violent acts. The city has recorded a theft rate of about 1,500 incidents per 100,000 people. Local authorities and residents work together on crime prevention strategies through community outreach and educational programs.

Being mindful of Peoria’s challenges can help both visitors and residents make informed choices about safety and engagement in community safety initiatives.

5. Kankakee

Kankakee, home to about 27,000, has seen significant increases in violent crime. The area faces a higher than average aggravated assault rate of 800 per 100,000. Socio-economic disparity aggravates the situation, prompting community efforts for improvement.

Initiatives aimed at enhancing educational opportunities and increasing community involvement are crucial for driving change in Kankakee.

6. Champaign

Champaign, known for its university, has over 88,000 residents and struggles with crime rates that often exceed state averages. For example, robbery rates hover around 300 incidents per 100,000 residents. Engaging community programs focused on education and neighborhood safety help address these issues.

Using resources like community meetings and local crime reports can empower residents to take initiative regarding safety in Champaign.

7. Springfield

As the state capital, Springfield, with a population of approximately 114,000, also experiences crime, particularly violent crime. Statistics indicate crime rates above the national average, with a violent crime rate of 450 per 100,000. Community-focused efforts aim to address crime through improvement initiatives and local accountability.

By fostering collaboration between local government and residents, Springfield can take significant steps towards enhancing safety.

8. Waukegan

Waukegan, near the shores of Lake Michigan, faces significant crime challenges including violent assaults and property crimes. With around 88,000 residents, the violent crime rate reaches about 700 per 100,000. Economic issues exacerbate the circumstances, but various community initiatives promote better relations and reduce crime.

Understanding Waukegan’s beauty coupled with its challenges offers a holistic view of the city.

9. Joliet

Joliet is increasingly recognized for its crime rates, particularly drug-related offenses. With a population around 147,000, the violent crime rate is about 660 per 100,000. Local officials work through community-based initiatives to address safety concerns while focusing on investments in public infrastructure.

Keeping aware of Joliet’s struggles can foster a proactive response from residents and leadership alike.

10. Aurora

Aurora, one of the largest cities in Illinois, has nearly 200,000 residents and faces crime challenges, especially in urban neighborhoods. With a violent crime rate hovering around 400 per 100,000, initiatives from law enforcement and community engagement are vital for decreasing crime.

Encouraging residents and community organizations to work together can lead to enhanced safety in Aurora.

11. Carbondale

Carbondale, primarily recognized for its university, has challenges related to crime rates. With a population of about 26,000, property crimes exceed the state average, highlighting the importance of community safety programs aimed at protecting students and residents.

Understanding Carbondale’s crime dynamics can help inform strategies for a safer environment.

12. Lombard

Lombard, known for its suburban charm, has experienced rising crime rates, particularly in property crimes, with rates nearing 700 incidents per 100,000 residents. Community members work actively on local safety initiatives to transform the city into a more secure place.

Involvement from residents can shape Lombard’s safety landscape positively.

13. Decatur

Decatur, with a population near 73,000, struggles with violent crime and drug offenses. Reports indicate a violent crime rate of 650 per 100,000 people. Initiatives to uplift the community through engagement and crime prevention strategies remain pivotal.

Continuous dialogue about Decatur’s challenges can lead to collaborative improvements in community safety.

14. Cicero

Cicero, home to around 83,000 residents, experiences notable challenges with violent crime, often driven by gang-related activities. With a violent crime rate of 670 per 100,000, local campaigns focus on enhancing youth engagement and implementing safety measures.

Acknowledging Cicero’s context sheds light on broader urban issues across Illinois.

15. Berwyn

Berwyn has seen rising crime rates, particularly with property crime. With approximately 56,000 residents, the property crime rate is about 650 incidents per 100,000. Community groups are actively participating in initiatives aimed at reducing crime statistics.

Connecting with local organizations can significantly enhance safety efforts in Berwyn.

16. Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon, home to approximately 13,000 residents, has notable crime concerns. The property crime rate exceeds the state average, reaching around 1,200 incidents per 100,000 people. Regular community discussions aim to address these trends and encourage safety initiatives.

Awareness of Mount Vernon welcomes conversations around socio-economic growth and public safety.

17. Galesburg

Galesburg has a population of about 30,000 and faces significant crime challenges. High rates of property theft and violent assaults, with violent crime around 450 per 100,000 people, necessitate community outreach and educational initiatives aimed at helping residents feel safer.

Engaging the community can lead to safer conditions through collaborative efforts in Galesburg.

18. Homewood

Homewood, a suburb near Chicago with about 19,000 residents, has seen changes in crime statistics, particularly in property-related offenses. Even small increases in crime can have a large impact in smaller communities, making attention to safety critical.

Understanding local dynamics is vital for addressing safety in Homewood effectively.

19. Harvey

Harvey, with a population nearing 25,000, has high crime rates including assaults and robberies. Continuous improvement efforts include educational outreach and community engagement focused on crime reduction.

Grasping Harvey’s socio-economic context provides insight into broader trends affecting crime in the area.

20. Matteson

Matteson, a suburb with around 19,000 residents, faces significant property and violent crime rates. Neighborhood safety initiatives are becoming core to transforming the community’s perception and response to crime.

Recognizing Matton’s growth alongside its challenges informs residents and fosters participation in local safety initiatives.

21. Maywood

Maywood exhibits high rates of crime relative to its population of around 24,000. Local initiatives focus on community safety and educational needs as a way to combat crime.

Conversations about Maywood’s context help engage community members in proactive strategies for improvement.

22. North Chicago

North Chicago, home to roughly 31,000 residents, deals with crime concerns related to property and violent incidents. Community stakeholders are actively addressing these trends to improve safety for residents.

Engagement from community members remains critical to steering initiatives toward crime reduction in North Chicago.

23. Silvis

Silvis, with just over 7,000 residents, has faced challenges with crime rates that exceed state averages. Focused attention on local programs and community connections is key to improving safety.

Involving residents in Silvis is essential for building safer neighborhoods.

24. Lincoln

Lincoln is a smaller city with a population of approximately 14,500, reporting increasing property crime rates above state averages. Determined community efforts focus on youth engagement and revitalization to positively influence safety.

Understanding the characteristics of Lincoln offers valuable insights into the areas in need of focused efforts.

Wrapping Up

In exploring the 25 most dangerous cities in Illinois, we see that various socio-economic factors strongly affect crime rates. While these statistics and challenges raise concerns, many communities are actively engaged in measures to enhance safety and support residents.

Awareness and discussions surrounding these areas can promote understanding and inspire investments in community safety. By knowing where to seek safety and support, individuals and communities can work together toward creating a brighter and safer Illinois.