Is Champaign or Chicago Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Champaign is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 23/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,781 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 31% lower. Champaign has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Champaign has a 73% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 29.5x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Champaign — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Champaign, IL
Chicago, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Champaign | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,780.9 | 4,012.2 | -1,231.3 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 501.9 | 539.9 | -38.0 |
| Murder Rate | 5.6 | 17.5 | -11.9 |
| Rape Rate | 68.2 | 58.8 | +9.4 |
| Robbery Rate | 91.7 | 335.3 | -243.6 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 336.4 | 128.3 | +208.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,279.1 | 3,472.4 | -1,193.3 |
| Burglary Rate | 574.5 | 294.8 | +279.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,472.1 | 2,318.8 | -846.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 232.5 | 858.9 | -626.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Champaign or Chicago safer?
Champaign is safer with a total crime rate of 2,781 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 31% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Champaign has a violent crime rate of 501.9 per 100K while Chicago has 539.9. Champaign has lower violent crime.
About Champaign, IL
Champaign, Illinois, home to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, is a mid-sized city in East Central Illinois. Its flat prairie landscape and highly educated populace reflect its agricultural roots and academic focus. With a safety score of 23/100 and a population coverage of 89,466, Champaign has a total crime rate of 2,780.9 per 100,000 residents.
About Chicago, IL
Chicago, Illinois, a major Midwest hub and birthplace of the skyscraper, sits on Lake Michigan's shores. Its diverse population of over 2.7 million people contributes to its vibrant arts and culture scene. With a safety score of 8/100 and a population coverage of 2,638,698, Chicago has a total crime rate of 4,012.2 per 100,000 residents.