List Of Top 10 Safest Neighborhoods in Chicago (2023)

Chicago is a significant city in America, but it has gained a reputation for having a high crime rate, which is not entirely accurate. Although it may not be as secure as New York or other major cities, Chicago has several safe neighborhoods. In this article, we will reveal some of the safest places to live in Chicago, so keep reading.

Safest Neighborhoods to Live in Chicago

Edison Park

Edison Park, a neighborhood situated in the Northwestern region of Chicago, is widely regarded as the safest area in the city. This is primarily due to its impressively low crime rate, which is 77% lower than the city’s average. One of the reasons behind this low crime rate is the distance from the city center, which limits the spillover of crime from other parts of the city. Edison Park is an ideal location for families, as it has a thriving community of young professionals.

Norwood Park 

Norwood Park is among the safest neighborhoods in Chicago, known for its lush green spaces and suburban atmosphere. It boasts a 14-acre park, the Whealon Aquatic Center, and the Edgebrook Golf Course, which attract many residents. Crime rates in this area are impressively low, with a 72% decrease compared to the city’s average. It’s the perfect place for retirees seeking a calm and secure environment.

Forest Glen 

Forest Glen, located on Chicago’s North side, is widely regarded as one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. Despite being one of the oldest neighborhoods, this small and laid-back community is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and secure streets. In fact, crime in Forest Glen is 70% lower than the rest of the city, making it one of the safest places to reside in Chicago. The area’s tranquil and serene environment has attracted many families and professionals, including government officials, police officers, and lawyers.

Lake View

Lake View is a highly coveted area to reside in Chicago, located right next to the famous Wrigley Field. Besides being known for its proximity to the ballpark, it’s also recognized as one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. Crime rates here are 40% lower than the rest of Chicago, and residents feel secure with the police presence. Lake View is renowned for its cultural events, as well as its convenient public transportation. Moreover, the stunning views of Lake Michigan add to the charm of this neighborhood.

Mount Greenwood

Mount Greenwood, situated in Southwest Chicago, is one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. Compared to other areas in Chicago, it is 66% safer, offering a secure environment for families. Residents can walk the streets with ease, feeling safe and protected. The neighborhood is surrounded by other suburbs and lush green spaces, providing an added layer of security by insulating it from criminal activity.

Westmont

Westmont, located in Northwestern Chicago, is a safe haven for those who value peace of mind. Its crime rate is an impressive 65% lower than the city average, making it one of the safest places to live in Chicago. With a population of around 24,429, Westmont has a smaller-town vibe that attracts families and those who prefer a quieter pace of life. The town’s excellent safety record and overall peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal location for suburban living.

Rogers Park

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the culturally diverse neighborhood of Rogers Park in Chicago boasts unique architecture, green public spaces, and beautiful beaches along the great lakes. The community is known for being very LGBT-friendly, with the Hart Library offering extensive literature and events for the community. Additionally, Rogers Park has a relatively low crime rate, making it around 23% safer than the city average.

West Lawn

West Lawn, situated in the southwestern region of Chicago, is widely regarded as a secure neighborhood that caters to the working-class residents of the city. With an estimated population of around 33,662, West Lawn is a culturally diverse locality that is often referred to as a melting pot. In comparison to the city’s average crime rate, the crime rate in West Lawn is approximately 22% lower, making it a reasonably safe and affordable place to reside in.

Streeterville

Nestled in the heart of Chicago, Streeterville is known for its convenient location and reputation for safety. The neighborhood is encompassed by some of the city’s top sights, including the renowned Michigan Avenue and the historic Navy Pier. Moreover, Streeterville is situated right next to the Miracle Mile, where you can marvel at some of Chicago’s most iconic skyscrapers.

The downtown area, particularly Streeterville, is known for being a safe haven for crime. This locality is near various universities, and the residents don’t have to worry about any safety concerns.

North Center

North Center Chicago is renowned for being a secure and peaceful residential area near downtown. Roscoe Village, located within this neighbourhood, was once home to one of the largest amusement parks in the world. North Center has a population of 36,149 and is known for its diversity and education. As a result, residents of North Center do not consider crime a significant issue, and the neighbourhood has lower reported crime rates compared to many other areas in the city.

O’Hare

Located on the far North side of Chicago, O’Hare is a bustling community with small portions outside the city limits. Home to an international airport and several corporate headquarters, the area is a hub of activity. While there were 1,875 reported crimes in the area in 2022, O’Hare remains a relatively safe neighbourhood compared to others in Chicago.

Hegewisch 

Hegewisch, situated on the South Side of Chicago, is a blue-collar community that boasts relatively low crime rates compared to other similar neighbourhoods. In 2022, there were only 757 reported crimes, which is a testament to the area’s safety. Interestingly, many police officers and firefighters also call Hegewisch their home, which speaks volumes about the neighbourhood’s security.

Lincoln Park 

Situated just south of Lake View, Lincoln Park stands out as one of the most secure neighbourhoods in Chicago. With its affluent status and abundance of cultural and tourist attractions, this neighbourhood boasts an approximately 25% lower crime rate than the rest of the city. If safety is a top priority and proximity to the city centre is necessary, Lincoln Park is an excellent choice for a Chicago neighbourhood.

Printer’s Row

Printer’s Row, located in South Chicago, is a charming, middle-class neighbourhood with a population of approximately 4,000. It boasts a rustic charm and is conveniently situated within walking distance of many attractions. Despite the area leaning towards the working class, residents feel incredibly secure when strolling the streets. While property crime does occur, violent crime is not a significant concern.

The Chicago Loop is the city’s central business district and economic centre. With a population of approximately 40,000, the Loop is characterized as an affluent and highly educated area. It boasts the iconic Chicago skyline and is home to numerous attractions. Although it is generally considered a safe neighbourhood, violent and property crime incidents occur. Burglary, theft, and robbery are some of the more common crimes reported in the area.

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