The Safest Cities in Illinois (2025)
Go Back To Previous PageIllinois boasts a highly diverse economy in the United States and the vibrant city of Chicago, making it an appealing place to call home. With so much happening in the state, choosing where to buy a house or rent can be challenging, especially when considering safety. Read on to explore the twelve safest cities to live in Illinois.
1. Campton Hills: the Safest City in Illinois
The safest city in Illinois is Campton Hills. Located in Kane County, this western suburb of Chicago has a population of 11,131 and boasts a crime rate of just 71 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 96% lower than the state average in Illinois. Campton Hills offers its residents a quiet and relaxed suburban atmosphere, complete with numerous green spaces and nearby dining options. Despite its proximity to Chicago, Campton Hills is recognized as one of the safest places to live in Illinois.
2. Sandwich
Sandwich is one of the safest places to live in Illinois. Located in DeKalb and Kendall Counties, about an hour west of Chicago, Sandwich is a small city with a population of 7,189. It boasts a rural, small-town atmosphere and is known for its numerous antique shops and the annual county fair.
The city has a very low crime rate, with only 84 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 96% lower than the national average. Both the property crime rate and the violent crime rate arealso 96% lower than those in the rest of the country. In Sandwich, your chances of becoming a victim of crime are just 1 in 1,195.
3. Naperville
Naperville is a vibrant suburb of Chicago and one of the safest cities in the state of Illinois. Located just outside of Chicago, it is safer than 90% of other cities in the state. Naperville is also the fourth-largest city in Illinois, with a population of approximately 145,000.
The city boasts numerous parks and historical sites. Notable attractions include Centennial Beach, a former quarry that has been transformed into a community swimming area. Another significant site is the Naper Settlement, a collection of historic buildings and homes that reflect the town’s rich history.
4. Gilberts
Gilberts is a safe and serene village located in Kane County, Illinois. With a population of 8,366 residents, it offers a peaceful and family-friendly environment, featuring quality schools and numerous public parks. Additionally, Chicago is just 45 miles away, providing convenient access to the city.
The total crime rate in Gilberts is 336 incidents per 100,000 residents, making it 86% safer than the national average. Notably, the murder rate is zero, and the violent crime rate is 97% lower than that of the rest of the country. As a result, your chances of being a victim of a crime in Gilbert are 1 in 298.
5. South Elgin
South Elgin is considered one of the safest places to live in the state of Illinois. Located in Kane County, the city has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by new construction. With a population of 23,865, South Elgin boasts a crime rate that is 74% lower than the Illinois average.
It has become a popular destination for young families and was featured on Money Magazine’s lists of “America’s Best Places to Live” in both 2007 and 2011. The median home price in South Elgin is $200,100.
6. La Grange Park
La Grange Park is located in Cook County and has a population of 13,475. La Grange Park has a total crime rate of 609 per 100,000, which is 69% lower than the Illinois average. La Grange Park is a great town for families and commuters who work in Chicago. La Grange has great schools and a charming downtown with many restaurants and an old movie theatre.
7. Deerfield
Deerfield is a peaceful suburban community situated in Lake County. With a population of 19,196, the total crime rate in Deerfield is 636 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 68% lower than the state average for Illinois. Often recognized as one of the wealthiest areas in the Midwest, Deerfield boasts a median household income of $143,729.
Additionally, the Deerfield Historic Village serves as an outdoor museum featuring five historic buildings, some of which are among the oldest in Lake County.
8. Buffalo Grove
Buffalo Grove is a safe city in Illinois with a population of 43,212, situated just outside of Chicago. It is safer than 63% of other cities in Illinois. Buffalo Grove is an affluent community, home to several corporate business parks that serve the education, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors. The town offers convenient access to Chicago, along with a comprehensive shopping center and a diverse selection of dining options.
9. Hanover Park
Hanover Park is a peaceful and safe suburban town located just outside of Chicago. With a population of 8,331, it boasts a crime rate that is 62% lower than the state average. This makes Hanover Park an ideal destination for young families, offering numerous outdoor activities while being just a short drive from downtown Chicago. Additionally, Hanover Park is very affordable, with a median home price of $168,100.
10. Palos Hills
Palos Hills has a population of 19,000 residents and boasts a crime rate that is 61% lower than the state average in Illinois. The community is centered around outdoor recreation and features a variety of amenities, including biking trails, golf clubs, and several parks. Palos Hills offers a combination of safety and affordability, with a median home price of $199,500.
11. Hinsdale
Hinsdale is a village in the Chicago metropolitan area that embodies an American small-town atmosphere. With a population of 17,395, Hinsdale boasts a total crime rate of 1,025 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 56% lower than the national average.
The village’s downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and hosts numerous community events each year. Additionally, Hinsdale features several parks that offer tennis courts, sports fields, and scenic open spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.
12. Western Springs
Western Springs is a village located in Cook County, with a population of 12,975. The total crime rate in Western Springs is 1,036 per 100,000 residents, which is 50% lower than the average crime rate in Illinois. Residents appreciate the quiet, suburban lifestyle in this community.
The Western Springs Service Club offers a private pool and other outdoor activities for the community. Additionally, Western Springs is an affluent area, with a median home price of $530,800.
Georges has been working in Wall Street for the last 16 years trading derivatives with hedge funds. He has been an active real estate investor for over a decade. Georges graduated from HEC Business School in Paris and holds a master in Finance from ESADE Barcelona.
