Illinois, known for its rich history and vibrant cities, also faces challenges with crime in certain areas. Based on recent crime statistics and analyses, here are the ten most dangerous cities in Illinois as of 2025:
1. Danville
Danville tops the list with a crime rate 213% above the state average. Residents face a 1 in 17 chance of becoming a crime victim. The city struggles with issues like poor education, limited job opportunities, and low median income, contributing to its high crime rates.
2. Peoria
Peoria, with a population of 113,150, has a crime rate 141% higher than the Illinois average. Violent crimes, particularly homicides and gun violence, are alarmingly high, making it one of the state’s most perilous cities.
3. Springfield
As the state capital, Springfield reports a crime rate of 5,218 per 100,000 residents, 122% above the national average. Both violent and property crimes are prevalent, with over 4,300 property crime incidents reported in 2021.
4. Rockford
Rockford, located in northern Illinois, has a crime rate 92% above the national average. Residents have a 1 in 23 chance of becoming crime victims. The city has experienced significant violent crimes, including a mass stabbing incident in 2025 that resulted in four fatalities.
5. Champaign
Champaign reports a crime rate of 3,409 per 100,000 residents, 75% above the state average. Residents face a 1 in 30 chance of becoming crime victims. Common crimes include burglary, theft, robbery, and assault.
6. Chicago
Chicago, the largest city in Illinois, has a crime rate 67% above the national average. With a population of over 2.7 million, residents have a 1 in 30 chance of becoming crime victims. The city has consistently reported high numbers of homicides and gun-related incidents.
7. Granite City
Granite City, part of the St. Louis metropolitan area, has a crime rate 64% higher than the national average. Residents have a 1 in 32 chance of becoming crime victims. The city faces challenges like poverty and unemployment, contributing to its crime rates.
8. East St. Louis
East St. Louis has a crime rate 31% above the Illinois average. Despite recent decreases in crime rates, it remains one of the most dangerous cities in the state. The city has a history of high violent crime rates, including assaults and robberies.
9. Joliet
Joliet, located southwest of Chicago, has a crime rate 6% above the state average. Residents have a 1 in 51 chance of becoming crime victims. While not classified as highly dangerous, property crimes like burglary and theft are fairly frequent.
10. Bloomington
Bloomington reports a crime rate 13% above the state average, with residents facing a 1 in 53 chance of becoming crime victims. In 2021, the city reported four murders, 19 robberies, 152 assaults, and 141 burglaries.
Conclusion
While Illinois boasts many vibrant and safe communities, certain cities face significant challenges with crime. Understanding these areas’ issues is crucial for residents, policymakers, and law enforcement to implement effective strategies for improvement