Embarking on a journey across the United States is a common aspiration for many Americans. Whether it’s exploring National Parks or ticking off all fifty states from their list, the U.S. offers a plethora of experiences.
The country’s landscape is incredibly diverse, encompassing vast plains and bustling cities, deserts and tundras, mountains and coastlines, and an array of lakes and rivers.
One of the remarkable states to include in your itinerary is Illinois. While it’s easy to imagine Illinois as a state dominated by cornfields and flat terrains due to its agricultural reputation, it has much more to offer.
Chicago, the state’s vibrant city located in the north, is a major tourist hotspot. Illinois also boasts beautiful lakes and rivers, and a host of outdoor activities.
As with any travel plan, it’s crucial to be aware of the crime rates and safety information of your destination. Illinois’ crime statistics are relatively average, aligning closely with the national figures for property and violent crimes. Also there are always some stuff you should check before relocating.
Interestingly, the property crime rate in Illinois is significantly lower than the national average. It stands at 15.6 (indicating that 15.6 out of every 1,000 people are affected), compared to the national average of 19.6.
The violent crime rate is slightly above the national average at 4.3, compared to 4.0 nationally.
As you plan your visit to Illinois, consider the safety profiles of the cities you intend to visit. Illinois is home to several wonderful places worth exploring.
Top 10 Secure Places
| City | Population | Violent Crimes | Nonviolent Crimes | Most Common Crime | Crime Rate Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elburn | 5,900 | 0 | 13 | Larceny and Burglary | 91.42% Below National, 90.57% Below State |
| Campton Hills | 11,305 | 1 | 17 | Larceny and Burglary | 93.80% Below National, 93.19% Below State |
| Manhattan | 7,879 | 2 | 26 | Larceny and Burglary | 86.16% Below National, 84.79% Below State |
| Hawthorn Woods | 8,504 | 0 | 40 | Larceny, Burglary and Car Theft | 81.69% Below National, 79.87% Below State |
| Gilberts | 8,254 | 3 | 20 | Larceny, Burglary and Aggravated Assault | 89.15% Below National, 88.08% Below State |
| Huntley | 27,637 | 9 | 99 | Larceny, Burglary and Aggravated Assault | 84.78% Below National, 83.28% Below State |
| Hinsdale | 17,831 | 2 | 98 | Larceny and Burglary | 78.16% Below National, 76% Below State |
| Justice | 12,822 | 7 | 29 | Larceny, Burglary, Car Theft and Aggravated Assault | 89.07% Below National, 87.99% Below State |
| La Grange Park | 13,411 | 5 | 62 | Larceny and Burglary | 80.55% Below National, 78.62% Below State |
| Naperville | 148,457 | 102 | 202 | Larceny and Burglary | 80% Below National, 88% Below State |
10. Naperville
- Population: 148,457
- Violent Crimes: 102 (0.068 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 202 (0.136 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
80% Below National Crime Rate, 88% Below State Crime Rate
The final destination on our itinerary is Naperville, the largest city on our list with a population exceeding 148,000. As the fourth largest city in Illinois, Naperville boasts a rich history dating back to its incorporation in 1831, making it one of the state’s oldest settlements.
Naperville strikes a harmonious balance between industrial progress and the preservation of its natural beauty, evident in spaces like the Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve.
The average home prices in this city range from the high $300,000s to the mid-$400,000s, reflecting its appeal and desirability.
9. La Grange Park
- Population: 13,411
- Violent Crimes: 5 (0.0373 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 62 (0.4623 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
80.55% Below National Crime Rate, 78.62% Below State Crime Rate
Situated to the west of Chicago, La Grange Park offers a diverse array of housing options, with property prices spanning from $100,000 to a whopping $1,000,000.
This location is a haven for nature lovers, with its streets adorned with trees and an abundance of parks and forests in the vicinity.
Notable green spaces include Possum Hollow Woods, Twenty-Sixth Street Woods, and Brookfield Woods, providing ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and enjoyment.
8. Justice
- Population: 12,822
- Violent Crimes: 7 (0.0546 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 29 (0.2262 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny, Burglary, Car Theft and Aggravated Assault
89.07% Below National Crime Rate, 87.99% Below State Crime Rate
Justice, a village nestled in Cook County and situated just southwest of downtown Chicago, was incorporated in 1911. Home to over 250 small businesses, Justice offers the vibrancy of city life without the associated hustle and bustle.
Alongside its flourishing economy, the village takes pride in its array of recreational activities and parks, offering residents and visitors plenty of leisure options. The housing market in Justice is reasonably priced, with the average home value hovering around $200,000.
7. Hinsdale
- Population: 17,831
- Violent Crimes: 2 (0.0112 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 98 (0.5496 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
78.16% Below National Crime Rate, 76% Below State Crime Rate
Hinsdale, a suburb of Chicago, is situated in both Cook and DuPage counties. Its development began in the late 19th century, and it rapidly grew into one of Chicago’s most prosperous suburbs, even earning a feature in a local magazine in 1897.
The growth didn’t halt there, and today Hinsdale is home to over 17,000 residents. When it comes to real estate, Hinsdale leans towards the higher end of the spectrum, with average home prices ranging from $700,000 to $800,000.
6. Huntley
- Population: 27,637
- Violent Crimes: 9 (0.0326 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 99 (0.3582 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny, Burglary and Aggravated Assault
84.78% Below National Crime Rate, 83.28% Below State Crime Rate
Huntley, a village straddling McHenry and Kane counties, boasts one of the larger populations on our list, with over 27,000 residents. Fondly referred to as “the friendly village with country charm,” Huntley has an impressive safety record, reporting a mere nine violent crimes in the past year.
Popular local pastimes include exploring the expansive 28-acre Deicke Park and catching baseball games at Warrington Park, adding to the village’s charm and appeal.
5. Gilberts
- Population: 8,254
- Violent Crimes: 3 (0.0363 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 20 (0.2423 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny, Burglary and Aggravated Assault
89.15% Below National Crime Rate, 88.08% Below State Crime Rate
Gilberts, incorporated in 1890, has experienced significant growth over the past two decades, evolving from a small settlement of around a thousand residents into a bustling town.
Despite its expansion, Gilberts has managed to retain its quaint, small-town charm, making it an appealing retreat for those seeking respite from the nearby vibrant city of Chicago.
Moreover, with only three violent crimes reported in the past year, Gilberts enjoys a strong safety ranking, further enhancing its attractiveness as a place to live or visit.
4. Hawthorn Woods
- Population: 8,504
- Violent Crimes: 0 (0 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 40 (0.4704 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny, Burglary and Car Theft
81.69% Below National Crime Rate, 79.87% Below State Crime Rate
Hawthorn Woods, a contemporary village incorporated in 1958, is situated in Lake County, approximately 40 miles northwest of downtown Chicago. The village takes pride in its open spaces, top-notch amenities, and welcoming atmosphere.
Adding to its list of commendable attributes is an impressive safety record, with no violent crimes reported in the previous year, further enhancing Hawthorn Woods’ appeal as a safe and friendly community.
3. Manhattan
- Population: 7,879
- Violent Crimes: 2 (0.0254 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 26 (0.330 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
86.16% Below National Crime Rate, 84.79% Below State Crime Rate
Manhattan, not to be confused with its namesake in New York, is a village located southwest of Chicago. Established in 1886, Manhattan began as a farming village that drew a significant number of Irish immigrants.
The community continues to honor its Irish heritage with an annual Irish Fest each spring. The median home price in this area averages in the mid-$200,000s, making it an affordable option for many homebuyers.
2. Campton Hills
- Population: 11,305
- Violent Crimes: 1 (0.0088 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 17 (0.1504 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
93.80% Below National Crime Rate, 93.19% Below State Crime Rate
Located just northeast of Elburn is the village of Campton Hills, which holds the distinction of being the second safest city in the state, having reported only one violent crime in the past year.
Similar to its neighboring villages, Campton Hills has a relatively high cost of living, with the median house price hovering around $400,000.
1. Elburn
- Population: 5,900
- Violent Crimes: 0 (0 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 13 (0.2203 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
91.42% Below National Crime Rate, 90.57% Below State Crime Rate
Elburn takes the crown as the safest city in Illinois, with no reported violent crimes in the past year. Situated approximately 50 miles west of Chicago, Elburn hosts several annual community events.
The most significant of these, Elburn Days, takes place on the third weekend of August and includes a parade. If you’re considering relocating to this safe haven, you can expect home prices to average in the high $200,000s to low $300,000s.
Safe and Exciting Adventures in Illinois
Illinois, the Prairie State, is a treasure trove of safe and engaging activities that cater to a wide range of interests. For nature enthusiasts, the Starved Rock State Park in Utica offers a serene escape with its stunning waterfalls, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife.
The park’s well-maintained trails and guided tours ensure a safe and enriching experience for all visitors. Similarly, the Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest presents an awe-inspiring landscape of unique rock formations and panoramic views, all accessible via safe and well-marked trails.
Beyond the natural wonders and bustling cities, Illinois also boasts a variety of safe activities in its charming small towns. Galena, known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, offers a peaceful retreat with its quaint shops, art galleries, and wineries.
The town’s safe and friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. Whether exploring the great outdoors, immersing in city life, or unwinding in a tranquil town, Illinois promises a safe and memorable adventure for all.
FAQ
What are some family-friendly activities in Illinois?
Illinois has a plethora of family-friendly activities. In Chicago, you can visit the Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium, or the Field Museum. For outdoor fun, Starved Rock State Park offers hiking and wildlife viewing.
The Six Flags Great America amusement park in Gurnee is a hit with kids and adults alike. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield is both educational and entertaining for families.
What precautions should I take when visiting the cities in Illinois?
As with any city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items.
Use trusted transportation services and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. It’s also a good idea to research the areas you plan to visit in advance.
What are the COVID-19 safety guidelines for travelers in Illinois?
As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, it’s recommended to follow CDC guidelines which include wearing masks in public places, maintaining social distance, and frequent hand sanitizing.
However, the situation and guidelines can change, so it’s best to check the latest updates from official health department websites before your trip.
Are there any unique local laws or customs I should be aware of when visiting Illinois?
Illinois laws are generally similar to those in other U.S. states, but there are a few unique ones. For instance, it’s illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless it’s hands-free. Also, smoking is banned in most public places, including restaurants and bars.
As for customs, Illinois is known for its friendly Midwestern hospitality. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services.
What is the public transportation like in Illinois?
Illinois has a robust public transportation system, especially in Chicago, which has the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) providing bus and train services.
Metra commuter trains connect Chicago with suburbs and other cities in Illinois. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available. In smaller towns and rural areas, public transportation may be limited, so renting a car could be a good option.
What kind of food is Illinois known for?
Illinois, particularly Chicago, is famous for its deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs. The state is also known for its Italian beef sandwiches. In terms of sweets, the caramel and cheese popcorn mix from Garrett Popcorn Shops is a must-try. Illinois also has a growing craft beer scene with many local breweries to explore.
Final Words
Embarking on a journey across Illinois promises a blend of urban excitement, natural beauty, and small-town charm. The state’s diverse landscape and rich history offer a wealth of experiences for travelers of all kinds.
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant city of Chicago, hiking through the serene Starved Rock State Park, or unwinding in the quaint town of Galena, Illinois ensures a safe and memorable adventure.
As you plan your trip, remember to stay informed about the safety profiles of your destinations and follow local guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Happy travels!
