Is Chicago Safe to Live In?

Thinking of moving to Chicago? You’re not alone. Chicago, known for its deep-dish pizza, Lake Michigan shoreline, and world-class architecture, attracts thousands of new residents each year. Many partner with experienced Chicago movers to make their relocation smooth and stress-free. But the city also has a reputation one that raises questions about crime, safety, and overall quality of life.

So let’s address the elephant in the room: Is Chicago safe to live in?

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Safety in Chicago is complex and varies significantly by neighborhood. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore crime data, share local perspectives, highlight safe places to live, and offer practical safety tips everything you need to know before relocating to the Windy City.

Chicago’s image in the national media often paints it as one of the most dangerous cities in the United States. Headlines tend to focus on crime hotspots and overlook the broader context. But the truth is far more nuanced.

Yes, certain areas of Chicago struggle with crime. But many parts of the city are just as safe — or safer — than neighborhoods in other major cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Houston.

It’s important to remember:

• Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own culture, vibe, and safety profile.

• Safety issues tend to be concentrated in specific areas — not citywide.

• Many Chicagoans live their entire lives here without being victims of crime.

When looking at whether Chicago is safe to live in, crime statistics offer helpful insight — but they require context.

Violent Crimes vs. Property Crimes

According to the Chicago Police Department’s 2024 Crime Summary:

• Violent crime saw a slight decrease compared to previous years.

• Homicides and shootings declined for the third year in a row, especially in areas with strong community-policing efforts.

• Property crimes like theft, burglary, and auto theft are still the most common.

Chicago is a large city with over 2.7 million residents, so total crime numbers can be misleading. Instead, looking at crime per 100,000 people gives a more accurate comparison.

How Chicago Compares to Other Major U.S. Cities

Despite its notoriety, Chicago does not rank as the most dangerous city in America. Cities like:

• St. Louis, MO

• Baltimore, MD

• New Orleans, LA

• Detroit, MI

…often have higher violent crime rates per capita than Chicago.

Takeaway: Chicago’s crime challenges are real, but they are not unique — and they are largely concentrated in specific areas.

If you’re moving to Chicago and safety is your top priority, choosing the right neighborhood is key. Here are some of the safest and most desirable areas to live:

1. Lincoln Park

• Tree-lined streets, top-rated schools, and beautiful parks

• Popular with families and young professionals

• Low violent crime rate

2. Edison Park

• Feels more like a suburb than a city

• Extremely low crime

• Tight-knit, friendly community

3. Lakeview

• Home to Wrigley Field and the Lakefront Trail

• Diverse, vibrant, and relatively safe

• Excellent public transportation access

4. Hyde Park

• Cultural and educational hub (University of Chicago)

• Active community associations and private security initiatives

• Low crime relative to neighboring areas

5. Beverly

• Historic homes, strong Irish-American heritage

• Known for being family-oriented and community-driven

• Very low crime compared to city averages

6. Rogers Park

• Diverse and artsy with lakefront views

• Low crime and high walkability

• Affordable housing for students and families

These neighborhoods are not only safe but also offer great walkability, strong public schools, and easy access to amenities.

Every major city has areas that face greater challenges — and Chicago is no exception. Neighborhoods that consistently rank higher in crime include:

• West Garfield Park

• Englewood

• Austin

• North Lawndale

• South Shore (some parts)

These communities often deal with:

• Poverty and unemployment

• Lack of public investment

• Historic disinvestment and systemic inequality

However, it’s worth noting that many residents in these areas are deeply committed to positive change. Grassroots organizations, youth outreach programs, and neighborhood groups are actively working to create safer, more vibrant communities.

Numbers and news stories can only tell part of the story. What do real Chicagoans say about living here?

“I’ve lived in Chicago for over 15 years — mostly in Logan Square and now Lakeview. It’s a big city, so of course there’s crime, but I’ve always felt safe being smart and aware of my surroundings.” – Lindsey, Marketing Professional

“I grew up in Beverly and raised my kids here. It’s peaceful, the neighbors are involved, and there’s a strong sense of community.” – James, Retired Police Officer

“It really depends on where you live. I wouldn’t trade Hyde Park for anywhere else — there’s culture, safety, and the lake.” – Tasha, University Staff Member

Pro tip: Living in Chicago is about choosing the right neighborhood for your needs and lifestyle.

Whether you’re visiting or moving to Chicago, here are practical ways to stay safe in the city:

Be aware of your surroundings

Stay alert, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.

Use trusted transportation

Ride the CTA trains and buses during peak hours. Avoid empty cars late at night.

Stay connected

Apps like Nextdoor, Citizen, and SpotCrime keep you informed about neighborhood activity.

Don’t flash valuables

Avoid displaying expensive items like phones, cameras, or jewelry openly on public transportation or busy streets.

Get involved in the community

Join local associations, attend block club meetings, and meet your neighbors. A connected community is a safer one.

The City of Chicago has taken a multi-pronged approach to improve public safety, including:

Community Policing

Programs like CAPS (Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy) encourage collaboration between residents and police officers.

Violence Prevention Programs

Initiatives like Chicago CRED provide education, job training, and mentoring to help youth leave gang life.

Infrastructure & Technology

• New surveillance cameras in high-crime areas

• Better lighting on streets and alleys

• Expansion of mental health resources to reduce repeat incidents

These long-term strategies are helping to build trust, reduce crime, and support at-risk communities.

So, should you pack your bags for Chicago? That depends on what you’re looking for.

✅ The Pros:

• Affordable housing compared to cities like NYC or SF

• Diverse culture, food, and arts scene

• Many safe neighborhoods and strong communities

• Beautiful lakefront, bike trails, and outdoor activities

⚠️ The Cons:

• Crime is a real issue in certain areas

• Some neighborhoods face inequality and underinvestment

• Requires smart planning and local knowledge

If you take time to research neighborhoods, talk to locals, and visit in person, you’ll find that Chicago has a lot to offer — including a safe and enjoyable lifestyle.

In short: Yes — Chicago can be very safe to live in, especially when you choose the right neighborhood and stay informed.

Like any big city, it has areas to avoid and others to embrace. But with its vibrant culture, rich history, and passionate people, it’s a city that’s worth considering.

👣 Thinking about moving to Chicago?

Take a weekend trip, walk around neighborhoods, talk to realtors, and get a feel for the vibe. Chicago might just surprise you in the best way possible.