Chicago is undoubtedly one of the most popular cities to call home. Whether you’re a young professional starting your career, a parent searching for a great place to raise your family or just someone who wants to enjoy a lively city with everything in one place — Chicago has it all.
With more than 2.7 million residents and counting, it’s no surprise that so many people love living here. However, the city often gets a bad reputation because of its crime rate. So, if you’re planning to move and want to know which areas are the safest or which suburbs offer peace of mind, you’re not alone. The good news? There are plenty of safe neighborhoods and suburbs in Chicago — and we’re here to help you find them.
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What’s it Like to Live in Chicago (and Is Chicago Safe)?
Chicago is famous for its energetic city life, peaceful suburbs and that warm Midwestern friendliness you don’t always find in big cities. Living here means you get access to one of the country’s largest public transit systems, amazing cultural experiences, passionate sports fans and an endless variety of food to enjoy. The city’s grid layout makes getting around simple and many of Chicago’s safest neighborhoods are also great for walking.
Even though Chicago is full of tall skyscrapers — it’s actually where these famous buildings were first created — the city still offers plenty of parks and green spaces. As you explore more of the nation’s third-largest city, you’ll be surprised by how much nature you’ll find among the concrete. There’s no doubt that the Windy City has a lot to offer and always has something going on.
When moving to a new city, one of the first things to think about — besides how you’ll move your belongings — is how safe your new neighborhood is. You’ve probably come across news reports or crime statistics about Chicago but don’t let that worry you too much. Most of the city’s crime is limited to specific areas. To help you feel more confident about your move, we’ve gathered a list of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago so you can choose the right place for your needs with peace of mind.
Is Chicago safe? Although crime numbers might make it seem unsafe, the truth is that Chicago is actually safer than several other big cities.
How Safe Is Chicago?
When thinking about moving to a new city, crime statistics are definitely something to look at — but it’s also important to remember that many factors influence those numbers. In Chicago, crime rates are shaped by things like past political corruption, certain policy choices and poverty across some areas.
Even though violent crime might sound concerning, the city has actually seen a major improvement. In February 2025, homicides fell by 35% compared to February 2024 and by nearly half (49%) compared to February 2023. Shootings have also gone down by 25% so far in 2025 compared to last year. According to FBI data, Chicago doesn’t even rank among the top 25 most dangerous cities for 2024–2025.
No matter what the numbers say, the possibility of random crime exists in every U.S. city — and Chicago is no different. However, your risk can vary depending on where you are and how aware you are of your surroundings. Staying alert and taking basic safety precautions is always important when you’re visiting, exploring or moving to a new place.
Safest Chicago Suburbs
Chicago is made up of 77 official community areas and everything beyond those boundaries is considered a suburb. There are many safe suburbs surrounding the city in every direction but here we’re focusing on a few that really stand out. Below are our top five picks for the best and safest suburbs of Chicago.
1. Clarendon Hills, IL
Clarendon Hills is known as one of the best and safest suburbs near Chicago — and even one of the top places in the U.S. to raise a family.
- Average Rent (one-bedroom): $1,700
- Average Home Value: $632,600
- Best For: Families, parks, local coffee shops, good public schools and community activities
Ranked as the No. 2 best place to live in Illinois by Niche, Clarendon Hills is a great choice for young professionals and people who value community life. It also ranks No. 6 among the best suburbs in the U.S. to raise a family — which isn’t surprising since its public schools have an A+ rating, along with the suburb’s overall A+ score. Clarendon Hills is also loved for its community events, like the annual summer Daisy Days festival and fun Halloween celebrations.
Located about 20 miles west of downtown Chicago, Clarendon Hills was established in the 1920s and now has around 8,700 residents. The suburb has a cozy, close-knit feel and most people (about 84%) own their homes. While the average home value is nearly $633,000, locals believe it’s well worth the price for the great schools, family-friendly atmosphere, beautiful parks like the 23-acre Prospect Park and a charming downtown area. Be sure to check out Tierra Distilling Co., the suburb’s first green craft brewery.
2. Buffalo Grove, IL
- Average Rent (one-bedroom): $2,100
- Average Home Value: $435,000
- Best For: Families, quality schools, job opportunities, shopping and dining
If you have children and are thinking about moving to a Chicago suburb, Buffalo Grove is a great option to consider. Niche ranks it as the No. 5 suburb in Illinois for having the best public schools. Thanks to its excellent schools, strong sports programs and plenty of job opportunities, Buffalo Grove is a favorite choice for many families.
While most people in Buffalo Grove own their homes, there are still plenty of apartments available — even in the small downtown area known as The Clove. For a fun family outing, visit the Long Grove Confectionery to enjoy tasty sweets and take a behind-the-scenes chocolate factory tour. The commute to downtown Chicago takes around an hour, depending on how you travel.
3. La Grange Park, IL
- Average Rent (one-bedroom): $1,450
- Average Home Value: $457,700
- Best For: Great schools, bike trails, plenty of green spaces, local community events and easy commutes
If you’re searching for an affordable suburb near Chicago, La Grange Park is a great choice. It’s only about a 30-minute Metra train ride from downtown, making it convenient for commuters and families who enjoy city outings for dining, theater or sports events. La Grange Park is also known as one of the safest areas around Chicago, earning a crime rating of 40 from NeighborhoodScout.
Most people in La Grange Park own their homes and enjoy supporting the many local shops and businesses in the area. Be sure to visit the La Grange Park Antique Mall, where more than 30 vendors sell everything from vintage jewelry and kitchenware to books and collectibles — all in one place. Another community favorite is Music Under the Stars, a weekly summer concert series that brings everyone together for live outdoor performances.
4. Naperville, IL
Naperville isn’t just a nice suburb — it’s often recognized as one of the best cities to live in across the entire country.
- Average Rent (one-bedroom): $2,075
- Average Home Value: $599,200
- Great For: Families, excellent public schools, job opportunities and a lively downtown area
When someone asks, “Is Chicago a good place to live?” Naperville is a perfect example of why the answer is yes. This suburb tops several Niche rankings — including best place to buy a home, best place to raise a family, best public schools and even best city to live in America. It also holds the No. 1 spot as the safest suburb in the Chicago area.
Home to more than 152,000 people, Naperville is far from small. Its walkable downtown area has over 150 shops and restaurants, such as Allegory, a popular farm-to-table spot run by a local chef. The city also hosts plenty of community events year-round, from cultural festivals to the Riverwalk Fine Art Fair — a beloved outdoor event held in the park.
Around 74% of people in Naperville own their homes and while the average price is close to $600,000, residents say it’s worth it. The suburb is known for being very family-friendly, with a lively downtown and a beautiful Riverwalk — a two-mile stretch filled with fountains, bridges and scenic spots along the DuPage River. Plus, with downtown Chicago only about 30 miles away, Naperville families can easily enjoy the city while still living in a quieter suburban community.
5. Hinsdale, IL
- Average Rent (one-bedroom): $1,925
- Average Home Value: $1.1 million
- Great For: Families, homeowners, top-rated schools, safety and convenient commutes
With a population of around 17,000, Hinsdale has a quieter, more spacious suburban feel compared to larger suburbs like Naperville. When you want a day in the city — whether it’s to visit a museum, catch a game or enjoy a Michelin-starred meal (Chicago had 20 in 2025!) — it’s just a 30-minute train ride away.
Even if you stay close to home, there’s plenty to enjoy in Hinsdale. Locals often gather at Fuller House, a welcoming neighborhood tavern known for its drinks and hearty Midwestern comfort food. Shoppers also enjoy exploring Hinsdale’s charming historic downtown, filled with boutique stores and inviting eateries — with Café La Fortuna standing out for its excellent coffee and paninis.
Hinsdale is well known for its top-rated schools (earning an A+ on Niche), walkable streets and convenient access to the city. Niche also ranks it as one of the best Chicago suburbs for families. However, some residents mention that the area lacks socioeconomic diversity, which can make it feel less inclusive to some. About 90% of residents own their homes and with an average home value of over $1 million, it’s clear that while Hinsdale is one of the safest suburbs near Chicago, it may not fit everyone’s budget.
Safest Neighborhoods in Chicago
The suburbs might sound appealing but is Chicago itself safe? The good news is yes — there are plenty of safe and welcoming neighborhoods within the city. Let’s take a look at some of the safest areas to live in the Windy City.
These neighborhoods, listed in no specific order, are among the safest places to live in Chicago.
1. Edison Park
Edison Park, located in the northwest part of Chicago, has a warm, small-town vibe while still being within city limits.
- Average Rent (one-bedroom): $1,675
- Average Home Value: $454,900
- Best For: Great restaurants, strong community spirit, a suburban atmosphere and the annual Edison Park Fest
Named after inventor Thomas A. Edison, Edison Park sits in the northwest part of Chicago and is known for its welcoming, suburban feel. It’s often ranked among the city’s safest neighborhoods, attracting residents who appreciate its walkability and strong sense of community. Locals also love how family-friendly the area is.
Whether you’re grabbing pizza, meeting friends for a drink or taking a walk with your dog, Edison Park is a great place to relax and enjoy. You can grab a classic Italian sub at Tony’s Italian Deli, a local favorite that’s been around for more than 45 years or stop by Edison Park Inn to bowl, play pool and enjoy some beers and chicken fingers with friends. And if bowling isn’t your thing, the Edison Park Fest brings live music and plenty of fun every summer.
2. Forest Glen
- Average Rent (one-bedroom): $1,200
- Average Home Value: $507,500
- Great For: Families, walkable streets, a small-town atmosphere and plenty of green space
Forest Glen, located on the northwest side of Chicago, is another one of the city’s safest and most charming neighborhoods. It offers the convenience of city living while maintaining a cozy, small-town feel. Even though it’s a smaller community, there’s still plenty to enjoy. Locals especially love Coletti’s, a longtime neighborhood favorite that’s been serving classic Italian dishes with a Chicago twist for more than 75 years.
If you want a home with a yard and a little space between you and your neighbors, Forest Glen is a great choice. About 90% of residents here own their homes and the average home value is around $507,500 — a 5% increase from last year. The neighborhood offers the comforts of city living without feeling crowded or busy. According to NeighborhoodScout, Forest Glen currently ranks as the third-safest neighborhood in Chicago.
3. Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is not only one of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago but also home to two of the city’s favorite attractions — the Lincoln Park Zoo and North Avenue Beach.
- Average Rent (one-bedroom): $2,250
- Average Home Value: $610,600
- Best For: Families, great restaurants, easy commutes, farmers markets and lots of green space
Lincoln Park is another safe and popular area for both homeowners and renters. Named after Abraham Lincoln, who spent much of his life in Illinois, the neighborhood offers plenty to enjoy. The Lincoln Park Zoo — which is free to visit — is a local favorite and residents love strolling around the South Pond for beautiful city views. To celebrate the start of summer, the annual MayFest brings music, food and fun to the area, and a day at North Avenue Beach is always a great way to enjoy the season.
One of the best parts of living in Lincoln Park is its great location. The neighborhood is close to top attractions like the Chicago History Museum and The Second City, the legendary comedy theater that helped launch stars such as Gilda Radner, Stephen Colbert and Eugene Levy. Lincoln Park is also full of inviting sidewalk cafés that give the area a lively, social feel. For a special dining experience, make a reservation at Alinea, a three-Michelin-star restaurant that’s been recognized as one of the best in the U.S. and even the world.
4. Lakeview
- Average Rent (one-bedroom): $2,050
- Average Home Value: $403,000
- Best For: Walkable streets, easy access to Lake Michigan, great restaurants and catching ball games
As the name suggests, Lakeview sits right along Lake Michigan, just north of Lincoln Park — but with more affordable housing options. It’s Chicago’s most populated neighborhood, home to over 100,000 residents and is made up of several smaller communities, including the Southport Corridor, Lakeview East, West Lakeview, Wrigleyville, and Northalsted (also one of Chicago’s coolest neighborhoods).
Lakeview is one of the safest and most walkable neighborhoods in Chicago. It’s home to popular spots like Wrigley Field, where the Chicago Cubs play and The Laugh Factory, a favorite destination for live comedy shows that showcase the city’s famous humor.
5. Norwood Park
- Average Rent (one-bedroom): $1,450
- Average Home Value: $411,300
- Best For: Families, local nightlife, plenty of green space and easy access to the airport
According to NeighborhoodScout, Norwood Park is one of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago. It has more of a suburban atmosphere compared to areas closer to downtown but that comes with its advantages. The neighborhood is just a few miles from O’Hare International Airport, so catching a flight or picking someone up is always convenient. For frequent travelers, this location is a big plus.
When you’re home, make sure to visit the 16-acre Norwood Park, which offers plenty of activities — from an outdoor pool with a water slide to tennis courts, music classes and outdoor movie nights. Locals also look forward to the Memorial Day Parade and Fall Fest, two annual events that bring the community together with live music, great food and local vendors.
Safest Places to Live in Chicago — FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the safest neighborhoods and suburbs in Chicago.
What area of Chicago is the safest?
If you want to live in one of Chicago’s safest neighborhoods, you’ll find great options in Edison Park, Lincoln Park, Forest Glen, Lakeview and Norwood Park.
Chicago is generally safe for both visitors and residents as long as you stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure — just as you would in any large city. Popular tourist spots like Navy Pier, the city’s many parks and museums are enjoyable and safe to explore, but it’s always smart to keep an eye out for pickpockets and protect your valuables.
What is Chicago’s crime rate ranking?
If you’re wondering, “Is Chicago a safe place to live?”, the city has a crime index score of 5, according to NeighborhoodScout. This means Chicago is considered safer than about 5% of U.S. cities based on reported crime rates. Still, there are many safe neighborhoods throughout the city — and this guide highlights some of the best ones to consider.
What areas around Chicago are safe?
If you prefer suburban living, you’ll find plenty of safe choices near Chicago. Some of the top-rated suburbs include Clarendon Hills, Buffalo Grove, La Grange Park, Naperville and Hinsdale. These areas are far enough from the city to offer peace and quiet but close enough to enjoy everything Chicago has to offer.
What is the most desirable area to live in Chicago?
According to Niche, Naperville is ranked as the best city to live in America. It’s also recognized as the safest Chicago suburb, the best suburb to live in and one of the top places in the country to raise a family. With its excellent public schools and high quality of life, Naperville truly stands out as one of the most desirable places to call home.
Which side of Chicago is the safest?
Chicago’s safety can vary depending on the area. In general, the South Side has higher crime rates, while many of the safest and wealthiest neighborhoods are located on the North Side. Still, every part of the city has its own unique culture and charm, so it’s worth exploring — just remember to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions wherever you go.
Where is it safe to stay in Chicago?
Many parts of Chicago — as well as its nearby suburbs — are safe places to live or visit. If you want to stay close to the city’s energy and attractions, neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or Logan Square are great choices. For a quieter lifestyle a bit farther from downtown, suburbs such as La Grange Park, Tinley Park, Schaumburg and Naperville offer safety, comfort, and a strong sense of community.
What is the #1 safest town in Illinois?
According to Safewise and FBI data, Campton Hills ranks as the safest town in Illinois. With a population of around 11,000 people, the village reported just one crime in the past year — an impressively low number that makes it the state’s most secure community.
What parts of Chicago should you avoid?
Chicago is a city with a rich history and culture, and every neighborhood has something unique to offer. However, as in any large city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings — especially at night.
According to FBI data for 2025, the west side of Chicago experiences the highest crime levels. West Garfield Park ranks the highest, with over 11,000 reported incidents per 100,000 people, followed by North Lawndale, which has more than 8,000 incidents. While these areas face higher crime rates, many other neighborhoods in Chicago remain safe and welcoming for residents and visitors alike.
If you’re still deciding where to settle in Chicago, consider renting a place short-term to explore different neighborhoods. You can always keep your belongings in storage until you find the perfect spot to call home.
Move to One of the Safest Neighborhoods in Chicago with STI Moving & Storage
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Once you’re ready, we’ll carefully transport your belongings to your new place in one of Chicago’s safest neighborhoods.
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Editor’s note: The average and median rent prices come from RentCafe and Zumper, while the average home values were gathered from Zillow. For easier reading, we rounded monthly rents to the nearest $25 and home prices to the nearest $100.
