Top 11 Chicago's Dangerous Neighborhoods: Crime Stats 2025

Chicago is a city full of character, but sadly, some areas are haunted by the constant struggle of high crime rates, making life difficult for residents and students alike. Chicago's dangerous neighborhoods are particularly known for their elevated levels of violent crime, including shootings, robberies, and gang-related activities. With a Chicago crime rate significantly above national averages, these areas pose safety challenges for residents, particularly students. Chicago is home to over 400,000 students, making it a popular academic choice. However, understanding the risks and being aware of each neighborhood’s crime trends is crucial for staying safe. This blog takes a closer look at some of the most impacted neighborhoods, offering insights into their crime rates and the safety concerns that come with living in these areas

Overview of Safety in Chicago

Chicago is a city of various neighborhoods, each has its unique character. However, some areas face significant safety challenges due to higher crime rates. Understanding these issues is crucial for students. Here are some key statistics that provide an overview of safety in Chicago.
A) Overall Crime Rate: Chicago has a crime rate of 40 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the national average.
B) Violent Crime Rate: The violent crime rate in Chicago is 5.99 per 1,000 residents, significantly higher than the national average of 3.1 per 1,000 residents.
C) Property Crime Rate: Property crimes occur at a rate of 34.01 per 1,000 residents in Chicago, which is also above the national average of 17.2 per 1,000 residents.
D) Motor Vehicle Theft: Chicago has one of the highest rates of motor vehicle theft in the nation, with a rate of 9.94 per 1,000 residents.
E) Homicide Rates: Murder rates in Chicago vary greatly depending on the neighborhood. For example, neighborhoods like Englewood and Austin have homicide rates that are ten times higher than other parts of the city.

11 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Chicago

Chicago's dangerous neighborhoods are known for elevated crime rates and ongoing safety challenges. High levels of violent crime, including shootings and robberies, contribute to the difficulties faced by residents. Awareness of these areas' risks is essential for Students living in or visiting the city.

1. Washington Park

Population: Approximately 12,366 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 16.81 per 1,000 residents 

Washington Park is one of Chicago's most dangerous neighborhoods, with a notably high violent crime rate. Robberies, which make up one-third of all violent crimes in the area, have seen a significant increase of 21% over the past year. This neighborhood faces a high concentration of gang activity and property crimes, creating safety concerns for residents, including students. For those attending nearby universities or living in the area, it’s important to be aware of the elevated risks when navigating Washington Park.

2. West Garfield Park

Population: Approximately 17,433 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 14.66 per 1,000 residents

West Garfield Park is recognized as one of Chicago's most dangerous neighborhoods, grappling with significant challenges related to gun violence and property crimes with robberies accounting for 5.55 per 1,000 residents. The area has experienced a high number of shootings, with nearly 1,000 incidents reported over the past five years, averaging roughly one every other day. Additionally, the neighborhood has a notably high robbery rate, contributing to its reputation as an unsafe Chicago neighborhood. Gang-related activities are prevalent, with groups such as the Four Corner Hustlers operating in the area, further exacerbating safety concerns. These factors collectively contribute to the area's challenges, making it a focal point for crime in the city. For those looking for safer options, check out Safe Areas to Live in Chicago for a better understanding of neighborhoods with lower crime rates.

3. Englewood

Population: Approximately 21,378 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 93.55 per 1,000 residents 

Englewood is one of the most challenging Chicago dangerous neighborhoods, struggling with high crime rates and extreme poverty. The violent crime rate in Englewood is 3.5 times higher than the city’s average, and in 2022, robberies accounted for 20 per 1,000 residents. Gang violence is widespread, with notorious groups such as the Black Disciples operating in the area. This contributes to Englewood’s status as a dangerous neighborhood in Chicago, making it a place where students and residents face significant risks. With poverty rates exceeding 30%, the neighborhood struggles with economic instability, further fueling these issues.

4. North Lawndale

Population: Approximately 34,794 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 71.2 per 1,000 residents 

North Lawndale is one of the Chicago’s dangerous neighborhoods, struggling with robberies accounting for 17.2 per 1,000 residents. The neighborhood has a violent crime rate of 71.2 per 1,000 residents. Socioeconomic factors, such as a poverty rate of over 43%, contribute to these challenges, alongside a history of disinvestment and economic hardship. These issues have made North Lawndale one of the most violent neighborhoods in Chicago, where crime rates are consistently high. The lack of resources and opportunities further perpetuates the cycle of violence and theft, impacting residents' daily lives.

5. East Garfield Park

Population: Approximately 19,992 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 66.6 per 1,000 residents

East Garfield Park is one of the Chicago dangerous neighborhoods, grappling with high levels of gun violence and property crimes. The area sees a significant amount of violent crime, with robberies accounting for 16.6 per 1,000 residents. Gang activity, including groups like the Black Souls and Gangster Disciples, fuels much of the violence in the area. As part of the broader pattern seen in Chicago dangerous neighborhoods, East Garfield Park faces serious safety challenges, impacting the daily lives of its residents and visitors.

6. West Englewood

Population: Approximately 25,772 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 65.96 per 1,000 residents 

West Englewood is known for being one of Chicago's dangerous neighborhoods, with elevated crime rates, particularly violent crimes such as shootings, aggravated assaults, and robberies. The violent crime rate in the neighborhood is significantly higher than the city's average, with robberies accounting for 17.2 per 1,000 residents. Additionally, the community faces challenges from illicit drug trafficking and ongoing territorial disputes, which contribute to frequent gun violence. These factors, combined with high unemployment rates and poverty, make West Englewood one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago, where residents experience heightened safety concerns daily.

7. Grand Crossing

Population: Approximately 28,991 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 51.9 per 1,000 residents 

Grand Crossing faces significant challenges with property crimes, including burglary, as well as occasional violent incidents such as shootings and aggravated assault. with robberies accounting for 9.4 per 1,000 residents, these crimes contribute to the area’s reputation as one of Chicago dangerous neighborhoods. Socioeconomic factors, such as high unemployment rates, poverty, and limited access to quality education, exacerbate safety concerns. These conditions increase the likelihood of crime, making Grand Crossing one of the worst neighborhoods in Chicago in terms of safety, where residents often struggle with the consequences of systemic poverty and insufficient community resources.

8. Austin

Population: Approximately 69,839 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 10.43 per 1,000 residents

Austin, located on Chicago's West Side, is often cited as one of Chicago's dangerous neighborhoods, grappling with high crime rates, particularly violent crimes such as shootings, aggravated assaults, and robberies. The neighborhood has a notably high violent crime rate, with robberies accounting for 4.12 per 1,000 residents. Socioeconomic factors, including high poverty rates, unemployment, and limited access to quality education, contribute to these safety concerns. These conditions can lead to increased criminal activity, making Austin one of the bad areas of Chicago in terms of safety. 

9. South Shore

Population: Approximately 55,754 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 59.19 per 1,000 residents, 

South Shore, a neighborhood on Chicago's South Side, faces significant challenges with crime, particularly violent offenses and property crimes. The robbery rate in this area is 5.14 per 1,000 residents, contributing to its reputation as one of Chicago's dangerous neighborhoods. Additionally, incidents of crime against women, including sexual harassment and eve-teasing, are a growing concern. Socioeconomic struggles such as high unemployment and poverty rates contribute to the area's safety issues, making South Shore one of the bad neighborhoods in Chicago, where the community faces constant challenges in terms of crime and safety.

10. Riverdale

Population: Approximately 10,159 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 5.51 per 1,000 residents

Riverdale, located in the southernmost part of Chicago, is known for its struggles with crime, including violent offenses and property crimes. It is often highlighted as one of Chicago's dangerous neighborhoods, where safety concerns are prevalent due to gang violence and drug-related crimes. With a high robbery rate of 1.96 per 1,000 residents, Riverdale continues to face challenges in maintaining public safety. Additionally, it is one of the poorest neighborhoods in Chicago, where residents experience the compounded effects of economic hardship, high unemployment, and limited access to resources, further exacerbating the neighborhood's safety issues.

11. Auburn Gresham

Population: Approximately 4,468 residents
Total Crime Rate: Violent crime rate of 64.56 per 1,000 residents

Auburn Gresham, located on Chicago’s South Side, is often cited as one of Chicago's dangerous neighborhoods, dealing with a combination of property crimes and occasional violent incidents. The area sees a relatively high robbery rate, with 14.5 per 1,000 residents impacted. Violent crimes such as aggravated assault and gun violence are occasional threats to residents, contributing to the area's instability. These crime rates challenge the overall sense of security in the neighborhood, making it a place where residents face ongoing safety concerns.

Safety Tips for living in Chicago's dangerous neighborhoods

Living in Chicago's dangerous neighborhoods requires proactive safety measures, especially for students. Here are practical tips to help stay safe:
1. Use Campus Transportation: Always opt for university shuttles or ride-sharing services, especially at night. Campus transport is often safer than public transit during late hours.
2. Avoid Risky Areas: Steer clear of poorly lit streets or neighborhoods with high crime rates, especially after dark. Plan your routes in advance.
3. Utilize Campus Resources: Many universities offer safety apps, escort services, and emergency contact numbers. Make sure to use these tools to stay informed and protected.
4. Stay Alert: Keep headphones out and remain aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
5. Choose accommodation Wisely: It's crucial to choose accommodation in a safer area, close to your university and essential services. Amber can help by providing a variety of verified Chicago student housing options, ensuring you find a safe and convenient place to live.

Understanding Chicago's dangerous neighborhoods is crucial for both residents and students in the city. While areas like Washington Park, Englewood, and West Garfield Park face significant challenges with violent crime and robbery rates, being informed and taking proper precautions can help ensure personal safety. By following security measures, utilizing campus resources, and choosing accommodation wisely, individuals can safely roam around these areas while maintaining awareness of potential risks.