Recent data show that numerous Illinois cities have higher crime rates than Chicago, which generally dominates crime discourse. This detailed reference, written by Srdjan Ilic and updated on November 29, 2023, details Illinois’ ten most dangerous cities’ crime rates, risk factors, and victimization potential.
10 Most Dangerous Cities
Chicago’s prominent crime rates cast a shadow that extends to neighboring cities like Joliet, highlighting the pervasive nature of safety concerns. The delicate balance between population size and crime rates in Bloomington prompts reflection on the intricate dynamics necessary for fostering community safety.
- Danville has the highest crime rate, 213% above the state average. Residents of 30,479 have a 1 in 17 risk of being a victim. Poor education, few jobs, and low median income add to the city’s problems.
- Another dangerous city is Peoria, in central Illinois, with a 141% crime rate over average. Homicides and gun violence plague its 113,150 residents.
- Springfield, the state capital, has a crime rate of 5,218 per 100,000, making it one of the most violent cities in Illinois. Its population of 114,394 makes it 122% more dangerous than the average U.S. city.
- With 88,302 persons, Champaign, Illinois, has a crime rate of 3,409 per 100,000—burglary, theft, robbery, and assault account for 1 in 30 victims in the area.
- Rockford, in Winnebago County, is known for high violent crime. Its crime rate is 92% above the national average, with murders, robberies, and assaults widespread among its 150,000 residents.
- In East St. Louis, one of the most violent cities in the nation, crime is 31% higher than the Illinois average. Crime has decreased slightly, but its 18,469 residents still face safety issues.
- Granite City, a 28,000-person St. Louis suburb, has a 64% higher crime rate than the national average. The once-booming industrial metropolis now struggles with poverty and unemployment, resulting in assault, robbery, and theft.
- Chicago, Illinois’ most prominent and cultural center, has a 67% above-average crime rate and 2,695,598 citizens. Homicides and gun violence have increased in recent years.
- Joliet is 35 miles southwest of Chicago, with 150,362 residents and 1,965 crimes per 100,000. Property crimes like burglary and theft are common but not harmful.
- Bloomington, Illinois’s 13th most populated city, has 78,680 citizens and 13% above-average crime. FBI data from 2021 shows murders, robberies, assaults, and burglaries, generating safety worries.
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Illinois’ Complex Crime Landscape
The examination of Illinois‘ crime landscape beyond Chicago reveals a multifaceted narrative, with socio-economic factors at its core. Danville, the riskiest city, mirrors the harsh impact of limited opportunities, poor education, and low income on crime rates. Other cities like Peoria, Springfield, and Champaign grapple with their unique challenges, emphasizing the need for targeted solutions.
In navigating these shadows, Illinois faces a collective call to address socio-economic disparities, historical challenges, and urban intricacies to pave the way for a safer and more secure future.
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