Is Chicago or Wilmette Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Wilmette is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 66/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,210 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 70% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Wilmette has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 98.9x 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
Wilmette — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Wilmette, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Wilmette | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,210.4 | +2,801.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 22.5 | +517.4 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 7.5 | +51.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 7.5 | +327.8 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 7.5 | +120.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 1,187.9 | +2,284.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 344.8 | -50.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 813.2 | +1,505.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 30.0 | +828.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Wilmette safer?
Wilmette is safer with a total crime rate of 1,210 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 70% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Wilmette has 22.5. Wilmette 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 Wilmette, IL
Wilmette, Illinois, a North Shore Chicago suburb, is home to the stunning Baháʼí House of Worship. This affluent village boasts a highly educated population and scenic Lake Michigan shoreline. With a safety score of 66/100 and a population coverage of 26,685, Wilmette has a total crime rate of 1,210.4 per 100,000 residents.