Is Chicago Heights or Chicago Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Chicago Heights is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 9/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 3,965 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 1% lower. Chicago Heights has lower rates in 4 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in violent crime, where Chicago has a 56% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 102.3x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Chicago Heights — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago Heights, IL
Chicago, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago Heights | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,964.8 | 4,012.2 | -47.4 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,232.5 | 539.9 | +692.6 |
| Murder Rate | 19.4 | 17.5 | +1.9 |
| Rape Rate | 46.5 | 58.8 | -12.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 263.6 | 335.3 | -71.7 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 903.0 | 128.3 | +774.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,732.4 | 3,472.4 | -740.0 |
| Burglary Rate | 674.4 | 294.8 | +379.6 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,465.0 | 2,318.8 | -853.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 593.0 | 858.9 | -265.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago Heights or Chicago safer?
Chicago Heights is safer with a total crime rate of 3,965 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 1% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago Heights has a violent crime rate of 1,232.5 per 100K while Chicago has 539.9. Chicago has lower violent crime.
About Chicago Heights, IL
Chicago Heights, once home to the Illinois Steel Company, is a diverse southern suburb of Chicago. Its population is predominantly Black and Hispanic, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultures. With a safety score of 9/100 and a population coverage of 25,802, Chicago Heights has a total crime rate of 3,964.8 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.