Is Chicago or Joliet Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Joliet is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 53/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,595 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 60% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Joliet has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 17.5x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Chicago — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Joliet — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Joliet, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Joliet | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,594.6 | +2,417.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 350.0 | +189.8 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 48.5 | +10.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 35.2 | +300.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 266.3 | -138.0 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 1,244.6 | +2,227.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 389.9 | -95.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 704.0 | +1,614.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 150.8 | +708.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Joliet safer?
Joliet is safer with a total crime rate of 1,595 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 60% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Joliet has 350.0. Joliet has lower violent crime.
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.
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.