Is Elgin or Joliet Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Elgin is safer than Joliet (Safety Score 61/100 vs 53/100), with a total crime rate of 1,369 per 100,000 versus 1,595 for Joliet — 14% lower. Elgin has lower rates in 5 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Joliet has a 100% lower rate.
Elgin — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Joliet — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Elgin, IL
Joliet, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Elgin | Joliet | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,368.7 | 1,594.6 | -225.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 266.7 | 350.0 | -83.4 |
| Murder Rate | 4.4 | 0.0 | +4.4 |
| Rape Rate | 64.7 | 48.5 | +16.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 31.0 | 35.2 | -4.2 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 166.6 | 266.3 | -99.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,102.1 | 1,244.6 | -142.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 211.7 | 389.9 | -178.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 804.4 | 704.0 | +100.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 85.9 | 150.8 | -64.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Elgin or Joliet safer?
Elgin is safer with a total crime rate of 1,369 per 100K vs 1,595 for Joliet — a 14% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Elgin has a violent crime rate of 266.7 per 100K while Joliet has 350.0. Elgin has lower violent crime.
About Elgin, IL
Elgin, Illinois, once known as "Watch City" due to the Elgin National Watch Company, is a Fox River community. Located in Kane and Cook counties, it's home to a diverse population of over 114,000 residents. With a safety score of 61/100 and a population coverage of 112,879, Elgin has a total crime rate of 1,368.7 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.