10 of the Safest Neighborhoods in Chicago & Chicago Suburbs in 2024

Undoubtedly, Chicago is one of the most popular cities to live in — whether you’re a young professional jumping off your career, you're looking for the perfect place to raise a family, or you’re simply wanting to live in a city that has it all. No matter why you’re moving to Chicago, you’ve made an excellent choice! And plenty of the other more than 2.6 million residents (and growing!) in the city would agree. But, yes, unfortunately Chicago does get a bad rap when it comes to crime. And although you’re excited about the upcoming move, you’re also probably wondering about the safest neighborhoods in Chicago or the best Chicago suburbs. Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. 

If the Windy City is calling your name, see how PODS can help get you there.

What’s It Like To Live in Chicago (And Is Chicago Safe)?

Chicago is well known for its bustling city life, laid-back suburbs, and that unforgettable midwestern friendliness that you just don’t get in other large cities. When you live in the Chicago area, you have access to one of the largest public transportation networks in the nation, world-class cultural events, a thriving sports scene, and all the different kinds of food you could ever hope to try! This city is easily navigable, thanks to its grid system, and you’ll find that it’s also a pleasure to walk through. 

And even though you’re in a concrete city with some of the tallest skyscrapers around (Chicago invented these iconic buildings!), you’ll find that there is a surprising amount of green space as you get to know the ins and outs of the nation’s third largest city. There certainly is a lot going for — and going on in — the Windy City.

One of the first questions you should consider when you’re relocating to a new place — in addition to what’s the best way to move your stuff there — is how safe the area you’ll be living in is. And, unfortunately, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Chicago’s crime. Chances are, you’ve seen some of the news stories or read some of the statistics when it comes to the crime levels in Chicago. But don’t be discouraged. That crime that you’ve read or heard about? It’s mainly in certain areas — areas that you’re not looking to settle down in anyway. In fact, we’ve come up with a list of the safest places to live in Chicago, so you can rest assured that you’re making the best decision for your situation.

While the city’s violent crime statistics might make you think that Chicago isn’t safe, it is, in fact, safer than some other cities.

How Safe Is Chicago?

While crime statistics are a crucial factor to consider when you’re moving, it’s important to realize there are a lot of variables that contribute to a city’s crime rate. In Chicago, it has a lot to do with historical political corruption, poor policy decisions, and widespread poverty. And while the violent crime statistics might make you think that Chicago is not safe, it is, in fact, safer than some other cities. The chance of being a victim of random crime is always present in any city — and that includes Chicago — however, that risk can increase or decrease depending on your individual situation and area of the city.

Compared to the rest of the country, Chicago does have a higher crime rate. It was 67 percent higher in 2020 — and violent crimes make up a large portion of that rate. From 2021 to 2022, overall crime in Chicago increased by a whopping 41 percent. However, it’s important to note that other common crimes like theft, robbery, and motor vehicle theft are also a substantial part of the overall crime rate of Chicago. In fact, these types of property crimes are common in almost all larger cities. And while the number of violent crimes that occur each year in the city may make headlines, according to NeighborhoodScout, Chicago didn’t even make the top 10 of the most dangerous cities in 2024. Other large cities, such as Memphis and Detroit, did. 

Safest Chicago Suburbs

While the city of Chicago is divided up into 77 community areas, everything outside those designated zones is considered a suburb. There are plenty of safe Chicago suburbs going in all directions outside of the city, but we thought we’d highlight just a few here that may be worth looking into. Here are our top five choices for the best suburbs of Chicago. 

Clarendon Hills is considered one of the best places in the country to raise a family.
(Source: atproperties via Facebook)

1. Clarendon Hills, IL

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,575
• Average home value: $606,500
• Great for: Families, coffee shops, parks, public schools, community events

Ranking as the No. 2 best place to live in Illinois by Niche is the village of Clarendon Hills. Located west of the city, this suburb also has an A+ rating on Niche. Incorporated in the 1920s, it’s home to about 8,900 people and is considered one of the best places in the country to raise a family.

2. Buffalo Grove, IL

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,000
• Average home value: $400,600
• Great for: Families, schools, jobs, shopping, restaurants

If you have kids and are considering a move to a Chicago suburb, you should check out what Buffalo Grove has to offer. With great schools, superior athletic opportunities, and plenty of employment opportunities, this suburb is very popular. And although most residents own their own homes, there is still a good amount of apartment rental space in the small downtown district. A short commute away from the city also makes this suburb a fantastic choice!

3. La Grange Park, IL

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,350
• Average home value: $430,400
• Great for: Schools, bike trails, green space, local events, commutes

If you’re looking for an affordable place to live outside of the city, consider the village of La Grange Park. This is an especially well-situated place if your commute takes you into the city each day. There is a Metra commuter rail that is easy to get to and allows residents to explore and travel all over the city of Chicago. Most residents own their own homes in this suburb and love to support the variety of local businesses that have set up shop in the area. Another plus? Music Under the Stars, La Grange Park’s weekly summer/fall concert series.

4. Naperville, IL

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,900
• Average home value: $565,600
• Great for: Families, schools, jobs, downtown

Not only does Naperville rank as the best city to raise a family and the city with the best public schools, according to Niche, but it also takes the crown as the best city to live in America. Not to mention, Niche also puts it in first place for safest Chicago suburbs. With a population hovering around 150,000, it’s no tiny town — and it’s only about 30 miles west of downtown Chicago. Most Naperville residents own their homes (74 percent), and home prices aren’t cheap. The average home value is about $565,600, which is up more than 11 percent from last year. And if the past several years are an indicator, home prices are going to continue to rise. Residents seem to think it’s worth it, though, touting its family-friendliness (top-notch schools and a high safety rating), bustling downtown in a suburban enclave, and riverwalk perfect for walking, running, and biking around town.  

5. Hinsdale, IL

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,850
• Average home value: $1.05M
• Great for: Families, schools, homeowners, safety, commutes

Just 20 miles southwest of downtown Chicago, Hinsdale ranks as one of the best Chicago suburbs to raise a family, according to Niche. With a population of about 17,000, it definitely offers more of a “sparse suburban” vibe than some of the other best suburbs of Chicago, like Naperville. But whenever you want to go into the city for a museum visit, a ball game, or a Michelin restaurant, it’s only about a 30-minute ride on the train. Hinsdale is known for its excellent school system (an A+ rating per Niche), walkability, and easy commuting. However, some residents flag the Chicago suburb’s lack of socioeconomic diversity, which can make it feel less welcoming for some. Nearly 90 percent of people that live there own their homes, and it only takes one glance at the average home value of over $1 million to see that while it may be one of the safest places to live in Chicago, it may not be for everyone.

Safest Neighborhoods in Chicago

Now let’s take a look within the Windy City itself, at some of the safest Chicago neighborhoods. In no particular order, these areas are some of the safest places to live in Chicago.

Perhaps you’ve already heard about Lincoln Park’s popular zoo (which has no entrance fee), but residents also love walking along the South Pond and taking in the views of the city — not to mention visiting weekly farmers markets.

1. Edison Park

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,450
• Average home value: $425,800
• Great for: Restaurants, community, suburban feel, annual Edison Park Fest

Named after the inventor Thomas A. Edison, Edison Park offers a friendly, suburban feel right in the northwest part of the city. Consistently recognized as one of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago, the area draws many residents because of everything that’s within walking distance. Whether you want to stop at a local pizza place, grab a drink with friends, or just enjoy walking the dog, Edison Park is a great place to do it.

2. Lincoln Park

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,175
• Average home value: $554,900
• Great for: Restaurants, commutes, farmers markets, green space

Another safe area for homeowners and renters alike is Lincoln Park, named after Abraham Lincoln, since the president lived the majority of his life in Illinois. Perhaps you’ve already heard about their popular zoo (which has no entrance fee), but residents also love walking along the South Pond and taking in the views of the city. One of the best things about living in Lincoln Park is the easy commute throughout Chicago. It's close to some amazing attractions, like the Chicago History Museum and The Second City Theater, not to mention some great spots to grab a piece of pizza and relax.

3. Forest Glen

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,375
• Average home value: $478,200
• Great for: Walkability, small-town feel, green space

This neighborhood on the northwest side of Chicago offers all the convenience of the big city but with that small-town feel. And just because this is a smaller community doesn’t mean it doesn’t have plenty to offer. If you’re looking to purchase a home that comes with a lawn and some space between your neighbors, this is the place for you. Residents here enjoy having access to amenities but without the feeling of being cramped or overcrowded.

4. Lakeview

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,925
• Average home value: $386,800
• Great for: Walkability, proximity to Lake Michigan, restaurants, ball games

As if the neighborhood’s name didn’t clue you in, it’s situated right on Lake Michigan, just north of Lincoln Park — but with noticeably lower housing prices. As Chicago’s most populous neighborhood, with more than 100,000 residents, Lakeview is actually made up of a handful of small communities, including Southport corridor, Lakeview East, West Lakeview, Wrigleyville, and Northalsted (also one of Chicago’s coolest neighborhoods). The neighborhood is delightfully walkable and boasts landmarks like Wrigley Field (home to the Chicago Cubs) and the Laugh Factory, where you can catch some of the hilarious live comedy Chicago is known for.

5. Norwood Park

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,125
• Average home value: $388,700
• Great for: Families, nightlife, green space, getting to the airport

Norwood Park is one of the safest Chicago neighborhoods, according to NeighborhoodScout. It has an overall A grade on Niche, where it also ranks on the list of best neighborhoods to live in Chicago. Though it has a more suburban feel than some of Chicago’s other neighborhoods, being further from downtown comes with plenty of perks. For instance, it’s just a few miles from O’Hare Airport, meaning you’ll never have to worry about calling in a favor for a drive to the airport again — if you travel a lot for work, this location is key. And when you’re home, don’t miss out on the 16-acre Norwood Park, where you’ll find everything from an outdoor swimming pool (with a water slide) and tennis courts to music classes and outdoor movie nights. 

If you’re looking for the safest places to live in Chicago, check out Edison Park, Lincoln Park, Forest Glen, Lakeview, or Norwood Park (pictured).
(Source: Northwest real Estate Group via Facebook)

Safest Places To Live in Chicago — FAQs

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the safest areas in Chicago.

Q: What is the safest area in Chicago?
A: If you’re wondering, “Where is the safest area in Chicago?” and are looking to stay in one of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago, you can’t go wrong living in Edison Park, Lincoln Park, Forest Glen, Lakeview, or Norwood Park.

Chicago is a safe place for tourists and residents alike, as long as you’re aware of your surroundings and have accounted for your personal possessions. Tourist areas like Navy Pier, outdoor parks, and museums are all great areas to check out — just be aware that pickpocketing can occur, so make sure to keep your valuables safe.

Q: What areas around Chicago are safe?
A: If a suburb is more your style, you’re in luck, because Chicago has some great options, like Clarendon Hills, Buffalo Grove, La Grange Park, Naperville, and Hinsdale. They’re far enough away from the hustle and bustle but still close enough to enjoy all the big city offers.

Q: Which Chicago suburb is safest?
A: Chicago has several great and safe suburbs surrounding it, but Clarendon Hills stands out. About 23 miles southwest, the small community with a population hovering around 8,500 earns an A+ overall grade on Niche, with an impressive A- for safety.

Q: What is the best Chicago suburb to live in?
A: According to Niche, Naperville is the best city to live in America. Not only that, but it ranks as the safest Chicago suburb, best city to raise a family in America, and the city with the best public schools in America. It’s tough to find a city with more first-place accolades than Naperville. 

Q: Which side of Chicago is the safest?
A: Generally speaking, you’ll find that the most dangerous areas in Chicago are found in the South Side, while the safest (and wealthiest) neighborhoods are clustered in the North Side. Don’t let that stop you from exploring the vibrant and diverse communities all around the city, though, or taking precautions to stay safe no matter where you are in the city. 

Q: Where is it safe to stay in Chicago?
A: It is safe to stay in certain parts of the city and many suburbs of Chicago. Depending on your needs, you can find an area close to the city, like Lincoln Park or Logan Square, that is safe to live in. If you’d like an area a little further away from the city, there are suburbs in all directions, such as La Grange Park, Tinley Park, Schaumburg, or Naperville, that would be great areas to call home — and some of the safest places to live in Chicago. 

Q: What suburb is surrounded by Chicago?
A: If you’ve heard of an “island” within the city of Chicago, you’ve probably heard someone referring to Norridge, IL. No, it’s not surrounded by water, but it is an independent suburb surrounded by Chicago, just east of O’Hare and south of Edison Park.

If you’re not sure where in Chicago you want to put down roots just yet, you can give yourself time to get to know the city by renting a place short-term — and keeping your boxes in a PODS container until you’re ready to settle down. 

Make Your Move to Chicago a Seamless One