Top 20 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Chicago

Chicago is a city renowned for its breathtaking architecture and lively culture. Unfortunately, it has some neighborhoods with dangerously high crime rates.

Using the most recent crime statistics to identify high-risk regions, this article explores the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago. Knowing these zones will help you stay safe while experiencing the Windy City, whether you're a local or a guest.

Is Chicago Dangerous?

Neighborhoods in Chicago have wildly different crime rates; some are quite violent, while others are rather safe. At 9.8 violent crimes per 1,000 people, the city has a higher violent crime rate (VCR) than the national average. There are also alarming developments in property crimes, such as theft and burglary, especially in communities with low economic standing.

Carjackings and armed robberies are on the rise, with incidents rising by 15% in 2023, according to recent crime trends. Particularly on the South and West Sides, gang-related violence is still a significant problem. According to police data, shootings are disproportionately concentrated in particular neighborhoods and are frequently associated with poverty and drug trafficking.

Understanding the Crime Rate in Chicago

Chicago's crime rates follow distinct geographic patterns, with violence heavily concentrated in specific community areas. The city calculates crime rates per 100,000 residents to allow fair comparisons between neighborhoods of different sizes. This method reveals that while downtown areas have more total incidents due to population density, per capita rates are often higher in disadvantaged neighborhoods.

The most recent crime trends show a complex picture. While homicides decreased 5% citywide in 2023, carjackings surged 28%, and robberies increased 12%. These crimes show distinct temporal patterns; violent crimes peak between 10 PM and 2 AM on weekends. While property crimes occur most frequently on weekday afternoons when homes are empty.

Top 20 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Chicago

These worst dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago that report the highest violent (VCR) and property (PCR) crime rates per 1,000 residents:

Englewood

With Chicago's highest VCR (18.2) and PCR (62.4), Englewood suffers from concentrated gang violence near 63rd/Halsted. Recent outreach programs aim to steer youth from gangs.

West Garfield Park

This area's VCR (16.7) and PCR (58.9) stem from drug activity in vacant buildings. New surveillance reduced break-ins by 20%.

Austin

Austin's VCR (15.9) and PCR (55.3) reflect chronic gang issues. Improved street lighting and youth programs show promise.

North Lawndale

With a VCR of 15.2 and PCR of 53.8, North Lawndale struggles with drug markets along Roosevelt Road. Community job programs show promise in reducing gang violence.

Greater Grand Crossing

This area reports a VCR of 14.8 and PCR of 51.2, with 75th Street remaining a robbery hotspot. Business development efforts aim to improve safety through economic growth.

South Shore

South Shore's VCR (14.3) and PCR (49.7) reflect its mix of lakefront appeal and urban challenges. Increased patrols near transit lines have shown some success.

West Englewood

At VCR 13.9 and PCR 48.5, West Englewood mirrors neighboring Englewood's issues. Church-led watches have reduced burglaries by 15% in participating areas.

East Garfield Park

With VCR 13.5 and PCR 47.2, Madison Street remains problematic. Vacant building demolitions have removed criminal hideouts.

Roseland

Roseland's VCR (13.1) and PCR (46.8) reflect its economic decline. New security cameras help police solve more property crimes.

Riverdale

This isolated area has VCR 12.8 and PCR 45.3. Activists push for better transit to boost opportunities.

Chatham

Chatham reports VCR 12.4 and PCR 44.7. Senior patrols effectively deter daytime burglaries.

Washington Park

With VCR 12.1 and PCR 43.9, gang conflicts persist near the park. Summer youth programs reduce violence.

Auburn Gresham

VCR 11.8 and PCR 43.2 show ongoing challenges. Violence interrupters successfully mediate gang disputes.

Humboldt Park

This area's VCR 11.5 and PCR 42.6 vary by block. New development brings both progress and displacement.

New City

New City's VCR 11.2 and PCR 42.1 reflect its Back of the Yards legacy. Community policing builds trust.

South Chicago

With VCR 10.9 and PCR 41.5, this former industrial area struggles. Workforce programs address economic crimes.

West Pullman

This neighborhood's VCR 10.6 and PCR 40.9 show gradual improvement. Block clubs cut burglaries by 25%.

Chicago Lawn

Chicago Lawn's VCR 10.3 and PCR 40.3 reflect diverse tensions. Interfaith groups help prevent violence.

Avondale

Avondale's VCR 10.0 and PCR 39.8 show gentrification effects. Business cameras aid robbery investigations.

Belmont Cragin

With VCR 9.8 and PCR 39.2, this northwest area stabilized after a 2022 crime spike through increased patrols.

Source: Chicago Police Department Crime Data, University of Chicago Crime Lab Analysis, Community Safety Reports

How to Stay Safe in Dangerous Chicago Neighborhoods?

The first approach to safety is to stay away from the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago. Be mindful of your surroundings, drive in groups at night, and remain on well-lit streets. Avoid showing off valuables in public, such as jewelry or phones, if at all possible.

Residents can install HD camera Reolink RLC-1240A. It's a vandal-proof high-definition security camera with motion detection and night vision. It detects motion and sends real-time alerts. It is an excellent security option for homes and offices. For further security, combine it with window locks and reinforced doors.

FAQs

What neighborhoods to avoid in Chicago?

Englewood, West Garfield Park, and Austin have the highest violent crime rates—avoid them, especially at night.

What neighborhood has the highest crime rate in Chicago?

Englewood leads with 18.2 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, driven by gang activity.

What is the safest neighborhood in Chicago?

Edison Park is Chicago's safest, with crime rates 80% below the city average.

Which side of Chicago is the safest?

The North Side, particularly neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Lakeview, has the lowest crime rates.

Conclusion

While the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago pose real risks, awareness and precautions can help you stay safe. Use crime data to guide your movements, invest in security measures, and stay vigilant in dangerous areas in Chicago. The city offers incredible experiences; just be smart about where and when you explore.