Chicago is known for its vibrant culture, iconic architecture, and deep-dish pizza, but certain parts of the city face ongoing safety challenges as it is one of the most dangerous cities in america. The most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago often report high levels of violent crimes like shootings, robberies, and assaults. These areas are critical to understand, especially for students, travelers, and new residents trying to stay safe in the city.
Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago, based on recent crime statistics and community reports.
1. Washington Park
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Population: ~12,366
Violent Crime Rate: 16.81 per 1,000 residents
Washington Park ranks high among Chicago’s dangerous neighborhoods due to its elevated rates of robbery and gang activity. Over one-third of violent crimes in this area are robberies, which saw a 21% increase last year. The presence of gangs and property crimes makes it a concerning location for both residents and students.
2. West Garfield Park
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Population: ~17,433
Violent Crime Rate: 14.66 per 1,000 residents
West Garfield Park is infamous for gun violence in Chicago, with almost 1,000 shootings in the past five years. Robberies occur at a rate of 5.55 per 1,000 residents. Active gangs such as the Four Corner Hustlers contribute heavily to the area’s crime statistics, making it one of the worst neighborhoods in Chicago for safety.
3. Englewood
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Population: ~21,378
Violent Crime Rate: 93.55 per 1,000 residents
Englewood tops the list when it comes to violent crimes in Chicago. With a robbery rate of 20 per 1,000 residents and intense gang activity (notably the Black Disciples), Englewood struggles with poverty and crime. The neighborhood’s violent crime rate is 3.5 times higher than the city average, making it one of the most unsafe areas in Chicago.
4. North Lawndale
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Population: ~34,794
Violent Crime Rate: 71.2 per 1,000 residents
North Lawndale deals with deep-rooted issues like economic hardship and disinvestment. The robbery rate is 17.2 per 1,000, and over 43% of residents live in poverty. These conditions foster crime, keeping North Lawndale firmly on the list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago.
5. East Garfield Park
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Population: ~19,992
Violent Crime Rate: 66.6 per 1,000 residents
With violent gangs like the Black Souls and Gangster Disciples, East Garfield Park faces persistent safety problems. Robberies occur at 16.6 per 1,000 residents, and gun violence is a constant concern. This neighborhood is a prime example of how gang conflict contributes to Chicago’s crime problem.
6. West Englewood
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Population: ~25,772
Violent Crime Rate: 65.96 per 1,000 residents
West Englewood suffers from a combination of drug trafficking, territorial disputes, and economic decline. Robberies are frequent (17.2 per 1,000), and gun violence is a daily threat. Unemployment and poverty are high, fueling the area’s reputation as one of the bad areas of Chicago.
7. Grand Crossing
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Population: ~28,991
Violent Crime Rate: 51.9 per 1,000 residents
Located on the South Side, Grand Crossing has a robbery rate of 9.4 per 1,000. Property crimes, burglaries, and assaults are common. Residents face challenges like lack of educational opportunities and high unemployment, which make this area another unsafe neighborhood in Chicago.
8. Austin
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Population: ~69,839
Violent Crime Rate: 10.43 per 1,000 residents
Despite being one of the larger neighborhoods, Austin has high rates of shootings and aggravated assaults. With a robbery rate of 4.12 per 1,000, it struggles with similar socioeconomic issues—poverty, unemployment, and limited public resources—that plague other dangerous areas in Chicago.
9. South Shore
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Population: ~55,754
Violent Crime Rate: 59.19 per 1,000 residents
South Shore’s safety concerns include property crimes, robberies (5.14 per 1,000), and rising reports of violence against women. The area also deals with drug issues and gang presence, making it a high-risk area, especially for students or newcomers unfamiliar with high crime areas in Chicago.
10. Riverdale
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Population: ~10,159
Violent Crime Rate: 5.51 per 1,000 residents
Riverdale, in the southernmost part of Chicago, is plagued by gang violence and poverty. While its violent crime rate appears lower than others, the robbery rate (1.96 per 1,000) and high levels of economic hardship keep it on the list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago.
Final Thoughts
Chicago remains a city of contrasts—a cultural powerhouse shadowed by neighborhoods struggling with crime and poverty. While many areas of the city are safe and thriving, awareness of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago is crucial for anyone planning to live in, study in, or visit the Windy City.
Whether you’re a student seeking safe accommodation or a newcomer exploring housing options, always research neighborhood safety, connect with locals, and check crime maps regularly. Staying informed is the first step to staying safe.
