Is Chicago Heights or Joliet Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Joliet is safer than Chicago Heights (Safety Score 53/100 vs 9/100), with a total crime rate of 1,595 per 100,000 versus 3,965 for Chicago Heights — 60% lower. Chicago Heights has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Joliet has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Joliet is 5.8x 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
Joliet — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago Heights, IL
Joliet, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago Heights | Joliet | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,964.8 | 1,594.6 | +2,370.2 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,232.5 | 350.0 | +882.5 |
| Murder Rate | 19.4 | 0.0 | +19.4 |
| Rape Rate | 46.5 | 48.5 | -2.0 |
| Robbery Rate | 263.6 | 35.2 | +228.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 903.0 | 266.3 | +636.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,732.4 | 1,244.6 | +1,487.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 674.4 | 389.9 | +284.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,465.0 | 704.0 | +761.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 593.0 | 150.8 | +442.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago Heights or Joliet safer?
Joliet is safer with a total crime rate of 1,595 per 100K vs 3,965 for Chicago Heights — a 60% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago Heights has a violent crime rate of 1,232.5 per 100K while Joliet has 350.0. Joliet 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 Joliet, IL
Joliet, a former steel town on the Des Plaines River, boasts the historic Rialto Square Theatre. This city southwest of Chicago has a diverse population, with a significant Hispanic community. With a safety score of 53/100 and a population coverage of 150,569, Joliet has a total crime rate of 1,594.6 per 100,000 residents.