Despite Chicago’s illustrious past and vibrant present, several of its areas are plagued by high crime rates. Investigating the causes of the high crime rates in the ten riskiest Chicago neighborhoods is the focus of this essay.
Washington Park
The violent crime rate in Washington Park is 701% greater than the national average, putting it at the top of the list. There has been an increase in crime of 297% compared to the national average. There are 12,707 people living in the area, and the crime rates are really worrying.
West Garfield
West Garfield Park, on the South Side of Chicago, has a violent crime rate that is 257% greater than the average for the city. The high crime rates in the area are largely attributable to the prevalence of gang activities.
Englewood
The violent crime rate of Englewood, which has 25,858 residents, is approximately nine times greater than the national average. There are a lot of violent and property crimes in the area because of the high poverty rate and low average income.
North Lawndale
The crime rate in North Lawndale is 198% greater than the average in Chicago, and the neighborhood has gone from prosperous to struggling. The large proportion of males with criminal records and the area’s economic downfall both contribute to its current situation.
East Garfield Park
Crimes against property and people are rampant at East Garfield Park. The high rates of gun violence and gang activity make life difficult for the locals.
Pullman
The overall crime rate in Pullman is 7,711 per 100,000 residents, which is 114% worse than the Chicago average, even though the neighborhood has a wealthier population than some of the others on this list. A high murder rate is also present in the area.
Grand Crossing
Grand Crossing has a crime rate that is over 100% greater than the rest of Chicago, along with a high unemployment rate and a poverty rate of 34.2%. According to the FBI, 8,198 crimes were reported in the area.
River North
Although it is located in the Near North Side neighborhood, River North has a significantly higher crime rate than its neighboring areas. Even though the area has greater income rates, property crimes are nevertheless quite common.
Chatham
The crime rate in Chatham has dropped by 14% in the past few months. Its crime rate is 83% more than that of other Chicago areas, nevertheless. Feelings of safety, particularly at night, are divided among residents.
South Shore
Despite having lower prices, South Shore experiences a disproportionately high amount of burglaries, thefts, and auto thefts. The crime situation in the neighborhood is worsened by the high unemployment rate and low median income.
Conclusion
Despite their cultural significance, these areas of Chicago are plagued by serious safety and crime problems. The high crime rates are influenced by common factors such as economic inequality, unemployment, and poverty. Those thinking about moving to or investing in Chicago would do well to familiarize themselves with these dynamics and get involved in the community so they may safely navigate these intricate areas.
Sources:
- U.S. Census Bureau Data: https://www.census.gov/
- Illinois Department of Economic and Community Development
- Local and Regional News Sources for Specific Towns