Safest Suburbs & Safest Neighborhoods in Chicago (2024) - PODS Blog (2024)

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 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 such as 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.

Ranking as the No. 2 best place to live in Illinois by Niche is the village of Clarendon Hills. Not only that, but it’s among the top three best suburbs in America to raise a family, which makes sense, considering its public schools have an A+ grade on Niche — and the suburb as a whole has an A+ rating overall.

Located about 20 miles west of the city, Clarendon Hills was incorporated in the 1920s and is home to about 8,900 people. It has a dense suburban vibe, and most residents (84 percent) own their homes, which don’t come at a low price — the average home value is over $618,000. Locals say it’s worth it, though, for the excellent schools, family-friendly feeling, lovely parks, and cute downtown.

If you have kids and are considering a move to a Chicago suburb, you should check out what Buffalo Grove has to offer. Niche ranks it among the top three places with the best public schools in all of Illinois. And because if the great schools, superior athletic opportunities, and plenty of employment opportunities, this suburb is very popular.

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!

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. Don’t miss LaGrange Park Antique Mall, where you’ll find 30+ dealers selling everything from antique jewelry and cookware to collectibles and books, all under one roof. Another plus? Music Under the Stars, La Grange Park’s weekly summer concert series.

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 $576,800, which is up nearly 9 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.

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, such as Naperville. But whenever you want to go into the city for a museum visit, a ball game, or a Michelin restaurant meal, 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.

Okay, the suburbs sound great, but is Chicago, Illinois, safe? There are absolutely plenty of great places to live in the Windy City itself. Let’s take a look at some of the safest Chicago neighborhoods.

In no particular order, these areas are some of the safest places to live in Chicago.

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. Residents tout how family-friendly the neighborhood feels, and Niche ranks it among the top three best neighborhoods to buy a house in Chicago.

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. Fill up on an Italian sub at Tony’s Italian Deli or head to Edison Park Inn, where you can shoot some pool, roll a gutter ball at bowling, and then grab some beers and chicken fingers as a consolation prize.

Another one of the safe neighborhoods in Chicago, Forest Glen is situated on the northwest side of Chicago and 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. The vast majority (90 percent) of Forest Glen residents own their homes, rather than rent, and the average home value sits around $482,500 — up nearly 6 percent from last year. Residents here enjoy having access to amenities but without the feeling of being cramped or overcrowded. Plus, it’s currently considered the safest neighborhood in Chicago, according to NeighborhoodScout’s rankings.

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, such as the Chicago History Museum and The Second City Theater, not to mention some great spots to grab a piece of pizza and relax.

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).

One of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago, Lakeview is delightfully walkable and boasts landmarks such as 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.

Norwood Park is one of the safest Chicago neighborhoods, according to NeighborhoodScout. And tough 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.

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.