Chicago stands as a prominent cultural and economic beacon in America. Yet, certain parts of the city are notorious for their elevated crime and violence levels. This article delves into the ten most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago.
Home to 2,746,388 people, Chicago is a vast and varied urban expanse rich in offerings. Despite this, it is widely known for its significant violent crime rates, which on average are approximately 67% higher than the national average in the U.S. The city grapples with both violent and property crimes, notably marked by a substantial rate of gun-related incidents.
10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Chicago
- Washington Park
- West Garfield Park
- Englewood
- North Lawndale
- East Garfield Park
- West Englewood
- Austin
- Grand Crossing
- Riverdale
- South Shore
1. Washington Park
Topping the list of Chicago’s riskiest neighborhoods, Washington Park grapples with a violent crime rate 701% above the national average. The area, with 12,707 residents, sees an overall crime rate 297% higher than the national figure. High incidences of murder, robbery, and assault contribute to Washington Park’s reputation as the most dangerous part of Chicago.
2. West Garfield Park
West Garfield Park, situated on Chicago’s South Side, faces a violent crime rate substantially higher than the city’s average. Crime here is 257% greater compared to the rest of Chicago, resulting in a 1 in 20 likelihood of residents becoming violent crime victims. Gang activities significantly contribute to West Garfield Park’s high crime rate.
3. Englewood
Englewood, another troubled area in South Side Chicago, has 24,369 residents and a long history of poverty. In 2022, the crime rate in Englewood was 125% higher than the Chicago average. Common crimes include robbery and assault, with high murder rates and frequent gun violence, making Englewood one of Chicago’s most unsafe areas.
4. North Lawndale
North Lawndale, once a growing West Side neighborhood, suffered greatly from the 2008 recession. With 34,794 residents, approximately 70% of men aged 17-45 here have criminal records. The crime rate is 198% above Chicago’s average, translating to at least a 1 in 9 chance of being a crime victim. The likelihood of experiencing violent crime is 1 in 34.
5. East Garfield Park
East Garfield Park, located in West Chicago, has a history of high violent and property crime rates. In 2022, there were over 2,800 violent crimes and 7,500 property crimes reported. The neighborhood faces issues with gun violence and gang activities, with 77 shootings in 2021 alone. The overall crime rate is 10,195 per 100,000 people, indicating a 1 in 10 chance of residents becoming crime victims.
6. West Englewood
In Southwest Chicago, West Englewood, home to 32,317 people, reports a crime rate twice the city’s average. The violent crime rate is 2,773 per 100,000, with a 1 in 37 chance of victimization. Property crimes occur at a rate of 6,778 per 100,000, posing a 1 in 15 risk. The neighborhood struggles with frequent burglaries, assaults, and robberies.
7. Austin
Austin, on Chicago’s West end, ranks among the city’s most crime-prone areas. In 2022, it stood 9th in violent crime and 20th in property crime within Chicago. Austin also ranked 5th in quality-of-life crimes, including loitering and unruly conduct.
8. Grand Crossing
Grand Crossing, located on the South Side with a population of 31,471, experienced a crime rate of 8,724 per 100,000 in 2020. This figure is 317% higher than the national average. Violent crimes, particularly gun violence, are prevalent, with a 1 in 18 chance of property crime victimization.
9. Riverdale
Riverdale, at Chicago’s far South end, is notorious for its high violent crime rate relative to its population. In 2021, there were about 7,682 crimes per 100,000 people. The likelihood of violent crime victimization is 1 in 39, while the chance of property crime is 1 in 22.
10. South Shore
South Shore, with 54,000 residents on Chicago’s South side, is known for its Great Lakes beaches but also struggles with crime. The overall crime rate is 7,573 per 100,000, with a 1 in 13 chance of being a crime victim. Violent crimes, including robbery and assault, occur at a rate of 2,454 per 100,000, significantly higher than the national average.
Chicago is a vibrant city, home to a rich tapestry of diverse neighborhoods, each contributing uniquely to the city’s rich cultural fabric. While the neighborhoods mentioned have their own distinct charm and have significantly shaped Chicago’s identity, they are also known for their safety challenges, ranking among the more precarious areas in both the city and the country. If you’re planning to move or invest in Chicago, it’s a good idea to explore the area thoroughly to ensure you find a neighborhood that feels right for you. Additionally, chatting with locals can offer a friendly, real-world perspective on the sense of community and safety in these areas.