Article takeaways
- Edison Park has a crime rate 61% lower than the national average and is safer than 92% of U.S. neighborhoods.
- Forest Glen reports crime rates 71% lower than Chicago’s average, with violent crime 44% below the national rate.
- Norwood Park’s crime rate is 72% lower than Chicago’s average, making it one of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago.
- Lake View’s violent crime rate is 58% below the national average, despite higher foot traffic near entertainment areas.
- Lincoln Park combines safety with urban amenities, featuring crime rates 24% lower than Chicago’s average.
- Chicago’s overall violent crime decreased by approximately 25% in 2024 compared to 2023, with continued improvements into 2025.
Maybe you’re moving to Chicago for the world-class job opportunities, the vibrant arts scene, or the unmatched deep-dish pizza. Or perhaps it’s the friendly Midwestern charm combined with big-city energy that draws you to the Windy City.
Whether you’re looking for excellent schools, career advancement, community safety, or a lively urban lifestyle, Chicago has something for everyone.
But what you’re likely not looking for is property crime, vehicle theft, or worse: violent crimes that threaten your personal safety and peace of mind.
According to recent data from the Chicago Police Department and the University of Chicago Crime Lab, the city reported approximately 28,443 violent crimes in 2024, though crime has been steadily declining. Violent crime dropped by approximately 25% compared to 2023, and homicides decreased by nearly 8% year-over-year. These improvements demonstrate the city’s ongoing commitment to public safety.
It’s with community security in mind that we put together this guide to the safest neighborhoods in Chicago. We’ll review the latest 2024-2025 crime statistics, but we’ll also look beyond the numbers to consider what makes a neighborhood truly safe.
We’ll examine financial security by reviewing average monthly rent prices and home values in each area. We’ll consider family safety by exploring local school districts and community resources. And we’ll highlight the unique character that makes each of these Chicago neighborhoods special.Finally, we’ll reveal how Storage.com can help you make a smooth transition when moving to Chicago and settling into your chosen neighborhood from our list of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago.
Edison Park
At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Monthly Rent | $1,450 |
| Average Home Value | $442,000 |
| Walkability Score | High |
| School Quality | A |
| Great For | Families, police officers, firefighters, retirees, suburban feel with city access |
| Crime Rate | Edison Park has a crime rate 61% lower than the national average, with total crime at 17.35 per 1,000 residents. |
Edison Park consistently ranks as the safest neighborhood in Chicago, and for good reason. Located in the northwest corner of the city, this tight-knit community offers a suburban atmosphere while remaining within Chicago’s city limits.
The neighborhood is particularly popular among city workers, including police officers and firefighters, which contributes to its exceptionally low crime rate. According to 2024-2025 data, Edison Park ranks in the 92nd percentile for safety, meaning it’s safer than 92% of U.S. neighborhoods.
This family-friendly area features tree-lined streets with well-maintained single-family homes, creating an environment where neighbors know each other by name. The commercial district along Northwest Highway offers local restaurants, shops, and services within walking distance.
| If you’re looking for… | What Edison Park Offers |
|---|---|
| Exceptional safety | With a crime rate of 17.35 per 1,000 residents, Edison Park has one of the lowest crime rates in all of Chicago and is safer than 99% of Illinois cities. |
| Strong community bonds | Active neighborhood watch programs and close coordination with the Chicago Police Department’s 16th District ensure residents feel secure. |
| Family-friendly atmosphere | Above-average public schools, numerous parks, and family-oriented events make this ideal for raising children. |
| Suburban comfort in the city | Quiet residential streets with single-family homes provide a peaceful retreat while maintaining access to all Chicago amenities. |
Forest Glen
At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Monthly Rent | $1,550 |
| Average Home Value | $507,500 |
| Walkability Score | Moderate |
| School Quality | A |
| Great For | Families, homeowners, quiet lifestyle, nature lovers, excellent schools |
| Crime Rate | Forest Glen’s crime rate is 71% lower than Chicago’s average, with violent crime 44% below the national rate. |
Forest Glen offers one of the safest environments in Chicago while maintaining that desirable neighborhood feel. This northwest side community ranks in the 85th percentile for safety nationwide, with a crime rate of just 21.32 per 1,000 residents.
What makes Forest Glen particularly appealing is its combination of safety and livability. The neighborhood features predominantly single-family homes with well-maintained properties, and approximately 90% of residents own their homes rather than rent.
The laid-back atmosphere attracts families and retirees who appreciate the quiet streets and strong community connections. Local favorite Coletti’s has been serving traditional Italian cuisine with Chicago flair for over 75 years, exemplifying the neighborhood’s commitment to supporting long-standing local businesses.
| If you’re looking for… | What Forest Glen Offers |
|---|---|
| Low crime statistics | Forest Glen consistently reports some of the lowest crime rates in Chicago, particularly for violent crime at only 2.373 per 1,000 residents. |
| Quality education | The area features excellent public schools and is particularly attractive to families prioritizing education. |
| Green spaces | Well-maintained parks and tree-lined streets provide outdoor recreation opportunities in a safe, family-friendly setting. |
| Homeownership opportunities | With 90% of residents owning their homes, this stable community offers strong property investment potential. |
Norwood Park
At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Monthly Rent | $1,400 |
| Average Home Value | $420,000 |
| Walkability Score | Moderate to High |
| School Quality | A- |
| Great For | Families, commuters, outdoor enthusiasts, historic charm, community events |
| Crime Rate | Norwood Park’s crime rate is 72% lower than Chicago’s average. |
Norwood Park combines historic charm with modern safety, creating one of Chicago’s most desirable residential areas. This northwest side neighborhood maintains a suburban feel while offering convenient access to downtown via nearby public transportation.
The namesake Norwood Park spans 16 acres and includes a fieldhouse, outdoor swimming pool with water slide, tennis courts, and athletic fields. The Chicago Park District maintains these facilities with support from dedicated neighborhood volunteers.
Community spirit thrives here through annual events like the Memorial Day Parade and Fall Fest, which feature live music, local food vendors, and family activities. These gatherings strengthen the bonds between residents and contribute to the area’s overall sense of security.
Proximity to O’Hare International Airport makes this location particularly convenient for frequent travelers, while the quiet residential streets provide a peaceful home base between trips.
| If you’re looking for… | What Norwood Park Offers |
|---|---|
| Historic character | Well-preserved homes and tree-lined streets maintain the neighborhood’s traditional Chicago charm. |
| Family recreation | The 16-acre Norwood Park offers swimming, sports facilities, and year-round programming for all ages. |
| Community engagement | Active neighborhood associations and popular annual events foster strong connections among residents. |
| Airport accessibility | Located just miles from O’Hare International Airport, making travel convenient for professionals. |
Lake View
At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Monthly Rent | $1,900 |
| Average Home Value | $565,000 |
| Walkability Score | Very High |
| School Quality | B+ |
| Great For | Young professionals, Cubs fans, LGBTQ+ community, entertainment seekers, lakefront access |
| Crime Rate | Lake View’s violent crime rate is well below the national average, though property crime is higher in commercial areas. |
Lake View offers a unique combination of urban vibrancy and reasonable safety, making it one of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago for those who want to be in the heart of the action. This diverse neighborhood stretches along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, providing stunning water views and easy beach access.
The area encompasses several distinct sub-neighborhoods, including Lakeview East (known for theaters and entertainment) and Wrigleyville (home to iconic Wrigley Field). While foot traffic increases during Cubs games and major events, the neighborhood maintains active police presence and community safety initiatives.
According to recent safety surveys, 56% of Lake View residents report feeling “pretty safe” with manageable concerns, while 28% feel “very safe.” The neighborhood attracts young professionals and is known as a welcoming community for LGBTQ+ residents, with the annual Pride Parade drawing millions of visitors.
The lakefront trail provides miles of scenic paths for walking, running, and cycling, while numerous restaurants, bars, and shops create a lively urban atmosphere. Public transportation via multiple CTA lines makes commuting throughout Chicago convenient.
| If you’re looking for… | What Lake View Offers |
|---|---|
| Urban lifestyle | Vibrant entertainment scene with theaters, comedy clubs, restaurants, and nightlife within walking distance. |
| Lakefront recreation | Direct access to Lake Michigan beaches, parks, and the scenic lakefront trail for outdoor activities. |
| Diverse community | Welcoming, inclusive neighborhood known for embracing residents of all backgrounds and identities. |
| Sports and entertainment | Home to Wrigley Field, offering the excitement of Cubs games and Chicago’s iconic baseball culture. |
Lincoln Park
At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Monthly Rent | $2,100 |
| Average Home Value | $680,000 |
| Walkability Score | Very High |
| School Quality | A |
| Great For | Families, young professionals, culture lovers, dining enthusiasts, premium urban living |
| Crime Rate | Lincoln Park’s crime rate is lower than Chicago’s average. |
Lincoln Park represents premium urban living with enhanced safety measures, making it one of the most sought-after neighborhoods for those moving to Chicago. This lakefront community seamlessly blends historic architecture with modern amenities.
The neighborhood features stunning Chicago greystones, stately single-family homes, and upscale condominiums. Families and young professionals are drawn to the area’s excellent public schools, proximity to DePaul University, and abundance of cultural attractions.
The free Lincoln Park Zoo attracts millions of visitors annually while providing a unique amenity for residents. Expansive green spaces throughout the neighborhood offer peaceful retreats from urban life, including the conservatory and nature museum.
Safety initiatives include active neighborhood patrols, community engagement programs, and visible police presence, particularly near CTA stations. The mix of residential stability and active street life creates natural surveillance that enhances security.
Restaurant options range from casual neighborhood spots to upscale dining establishments, while independent boutiques and shops line the streets. The lakefront location provides easy access to beaches and the scenic shoreline trail.
| If you’re looking for… | What Lincoln Park Offers |
|---|---|
| Cultural attractions | Free zoo, conservatory, nature museum, and seasonal farmers market all within the neighborhood. |
| Premier education | Top-rated public schools and proximity to DePaul University create an education-focused environment. |
| Architectural beauty | Historic greystones and tree-lined streets showcase classic Chicago architecture at its finest. |
| Walkable lifestyle | Everything from groceries to entertainment is accessible on foot, with excellent public transit connections. |
Mount Greenwood
At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Monthly Rent | $1,300 |
| Average Home Value | $320,000 |
| Walkability Score | Moderate |
| School Quality | B+ |
| Great For | City workers, blue-collar families, affordability, community spirit, small-town feel |
| Crime Rate | Mount Greenwood has a violent crime rate of 1.48 per 1,000 residents and property crime 64% lower than Chicago’s average. |
Mount Greenwood offers exceptional safety at more affordable price points, making it ideal for families and city workers seeking secure housing on the city’s southwest side. This traditionally blue-collar neighborhood maintains a small-town atmosphere within Chicago’s boundaries.
The area is particularly popular among police officers, firefighters, and other municipal employees, contributing to its strong safety culture. Crime rates here are significantly lower than Chicago’s average, providing peace of mind for families raising children.
Housing consists primarily of modest single-family homes with yards, creating a residential character distinct from Chicago’s denser neighborhoods. Residents take pride in maintaining their properties and supporting local businesses along 111th Street.
Mount Greenwood Park provides recreational facilities including a swimming pool, sports fields, and playgrounds for family activities. The strong civic culture and community involvement create an environment where neighbors look out for one another.
| If you’re looking for… | What Mount Greenwood Offers |
|---|---|
| Affordability | Lower home prices and rents compared to other safe Chicago neighborhoods, without compromising security. |
| Family-oriented community | Quiet streets, safe parks, and a small-town feel perfect for raising children. |
| Strong civic culturey | Active community involvement and pride in the neighborhood create natural safety through engaged residents. |
| City worker community | High concentration of police officers and firefighters contributes to enhanced neighborhood security. |
Moving to One of the Safest Neighborhoods in Chicago? Storage.com Can Help
From the urban energy of Lake View to the suburban calm of Edison Park, living in one of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago offers the perfect blend of security and lifestyle amenities.
But whether you’re moving to Chicago from another state, relocating from a different city, or simply transitioning between neighborhoods, the moving process can feel overwhelming. And the costs add up quickly.
Moving companies and truck rentals typically charge a combination of daily rates and per-mile fees, creating pressure to unload everything as soon as you arrive. But rushing the unpacking process rarely leads to an organized, settled home.
Don’t worry—Storage.com is here to help make your move to Chicago smooth and stress-free.
First, use our signature Storage Unit Locator Tool to find affordable storage units in Chicago near your new neighborhood. Our platform allows you to set specific parameters to match your exact needs.
Maybe you want storage units in Chicago close to one of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago from our list. Perhaps you need a specific storage unit size for your belongings. Or maybe you need a climate-controlled storage unit to protect valuable items from Chicago’s temperature extremes. Concerned about the safety of your stuff in storage? We’ve even put together a guide to storage unit security features.
We recommend booking your storage unit before the big move. When you arrive in Chicago, you can unload the moving truck into your storage facility and return it immediately, avoiding expensive daily rental fees. Then, you can gradually move items into your new home at your own pace using your personal vehicle.
In most cases, you can rent a month of storage for less than the cost of keeping a rental truck for even one extra day.
And if you’re still exploring neighborhoods and haven’t found the perfect place yet, storage provides the flexibility to take your time. You can keep your belongings secure while you visit different areas, compare options, and find the ideal home in one of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago.
Many storage facilities in Chicago offer convenient features like 24/7 access, security monitoring, and drive-up units that make moving day easier. Some locations even provide moving supplies and truck rentals on-site.
Whether you need short-term storage during your transition or long-term space for seasonal items and extra belongings, Storage.com connects you with the right facility for your needs and budget.
Our Chicago city guide and local expertise can also help you navigate other aspects of your move, from understanding neighborhood parking to finding the best local services in your new community.
Final Thoughts on Chicago’s Safe Neighborhoods
Chicago’s reputation doesn’t tell the whole story. While the city has faced challenges, the safest neighborhoods in Chicago demonstrate that security, community, and quality of life are alive and well throughout the city.
Recent crime statistics show encouraging trends. With violent crime down 25% and continued improvements in public safety initiatives, Chicago is becoming safer each year. Strategic policing, community collaboration, and targeted interventions are making a real difference.
When moving to Chicago, choosing the right neighborhood matters. Whether you prioritize the exceptional safety of Edison Park, the lakefront lifestyle of Lake View, or the urban sophistication of Lincoln Park, you’ll find communities where families thrive and residents feel secure.
Use the crime statistics, housing information, and neighborhood insights in this guide as starting points for your research. Visit potential neighborhoods at different times of day, talk with current residents, and consult the Chicago Police Department’s online crime maps for the most current data.
Remember that safety involves more than just crime rates. Consider factors like street lighting, community engagement, proximity to police and fire services, and the overall sense of neighborhood cohesion when making your decision.
Chicago offers incredible opportunities for career growth, cultural experiences, and community connection. With careful neighborhood selection and the right moving support from Storage.com, your transition to the Windy City can be both exciting and secure.
Welcome to Chicago—we’re glad you’re considering making one of the safest neighborhoods in Chicago your new home!
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