Is Evanston or Joliet Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Joliet is safer than Evanston (Safety Score 53/100 vs 21/100), with a total crime rate of 1,595 per 100,000 versus 2,884 for Evanston — 45% lower. Evanston has higher rates in 1 of 6 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in violent crime, where Evanston has a 60% lower rate.
Note: Joliet is 2.0x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Evanston — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Joliet — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Evanston, IL
Joliet, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Evanston | Joliet | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,883.6 | 1,594.6 | +1,289.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 141.6 | 350.0 | -208.5 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 0.0 | +0.0 |
| Rape Rate | 31.0 | 48.5 | -17.5 |
| Robbery Rate | 55.3 | 35.2 | +20.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 55.3 | 266.3 | -211.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,742.1 | 1,244.6 | +1,497.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 451.6 | 389.9 | +61.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,054.5 | 704.0 | +1,350.5 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 235.9 | 150.8 | +85.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Evanston or Joliet safer?
Joliet is safer with a total crime rate of 1,595 per 100K vs 2,884 for Evanston — a 45% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Evanston has a violent crime rate of 141.6 per 100K while Joliet has 350.0. Evanston has lower violent crime.
About Evanston, IL
Evanston, a Chicago suburb on Lake Michigan, is home to Northwestern University, a prestigious private institution. Its diverse population reflects a mix of students, families, and long-time residents. With a safety score of 21/100 and a population coverage of 74,178, Evanston has a total crime rate of 2,883.6 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.