Thinking about moving soon? You might want to think twice before settling in one of the most dangerous cities in Illinois, according to FBI crime data. Our friends at RoadSnacks compiled the statistics, and we worked with them to bring you the key details about our state and pinpoint its most dangerous cities. Keep in mind that crime rates tend to run higher in most highly populated metropolitan areas, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the whole city is unsafe – violent crime usually clusters in concentrated pockets. Many of these places are cultural hubs, with great dining, shopping, and entertainment venues that locals and visitors enjoy.
1.Mount Vernon
According to 2019 FBI data, Mount Vernon is one of the most dangerous places in Illinois. Its violent crime rate runs more than three times the national average and more than twice the state average. With a population of just over 14,000, it’s striking that burglary, property crime, and larceny also hit exceptionally high rates here. That said, you can still get a glimpse of pioneer life at the Jefferson County Historical Village, and you can stop by Jimmie James Blue Goose for friendly service and delicious Mediterranean food. If you visit after dark, stick to well-lit streets instead of dark corridors, and don’t wander around alone at night.
2.Danville
This moderate-sized town records about 1,700 cases of violent crime per 100,000 people each year. Just about every type of crime here runs four times higher than the state average. Locals know the town for frequent shootings and rampant theft. Still, Danville has another claim to fame: it’s home to Royal Donut, which serves up some of the best donuts in Illinois. However, as of 2024, it ranks as the most dangerous city in Illinois.
3.Springfield
Our capital and the largest city in central Illinois isn’t free of crime, of course. It’s only the sixth most populous city in the state, yet it sees nearly 10 murders per 100,000 people each year, along with more than 1,000 acts of violent crime per 100,000 people. That doesn’t mean Springfield has little to offer, though. In fact, it’s one of the top weekend destinations in Illinois. If you’re there after the sun goes down, stay in the busy entertainment districts and don’t leave your valuables unattended.
4.Centralia
This town of approximately 12,000 people may not see many murders, but its violent crime still runs three times the state average and nearly four times the national average. You’ll likely find plenty of theft, property crime, and aggravated assault in various pockets of this southern Illinois town. High crime rates aren’t all Centralia has to offer, though. The town also boasts one of the few castles in Illinois. Castle Ridge features a really cool rooftop bar with live music, perfect for a Saturday night out on the town.
5.Wood River
Overall, this small town is relatively safe, with a violent crime rate lower than the national average. But property crime and personal theft pose a real problem if you plan on moving here. For such a small town, you’d never expect so much crime. Even car theft lands right on the state average, which is why Wood River ranks among the most dangerous towns in Illinois. Community leaders and law enforcement work together to improve conditions in the town. When you visit, lock your car and stay aware of your surroundings.
6.Rockford
This major metropolitan area, home to about 150,000 people, posts crime rates above the state and national averages across the board. As the third largest city in Illinois, it sees more than three times as much violent crime as the rest of the state, and twice as many murders. Its aggravated assault rate runs nearly five times higher than the state and national average. Car theft and larceny occur twice as often, while burglary happens three times as often as the state average. On the bright side, Rockford is home to Hurricane Harbor Rockford, one of the best water parks in Illinois. It makes a great day out for the family, and adults can easily (and safely) transition to nighttime fun at the bars and stylish lounges in downtown Rockford, Illinois.
7.Metropolis
You probably never expected the home of Superman to land on a list of Illinois towns with crime issues, but with a property crime rate three times higher than the state average, the city of Metropolis made the cut. Theft in general also runs high in this town, and both aggravated assault and violent crime still soar above the state and national averages. Overall, the city is a safe place to visit, and it offers plenty of supersized fun, including a historical reenactment at Fort Massac State Park, Illinois’ first state park.
8.Peoria
One of the most popular cities in Central Illinois, Peoria is home to about 113,000 residents and sees about 760 cases of violent crime per 100,000 people each year. Its property crime and aggravated assault rates are the most startling, as both run about twice the state average. Burglary also runs high here, with more than 900 cases per 100,000 people per year. But don’t make the mistake of avoiding Peoria altogether, since it’s home to one of the best scenic drives in Illinois.
9.Kankakee
Among the most concerning places in Illinois, the city of Kankakee has just about 23,000 people and sees around 900 property crimes and 236 violent crimes every year. These incidents occur at twice the state and national averages, and other forms of crime aren’t far behind. Theft runs rampant in several pockets of this small town, especially in the central and northern regions. But locals will tell you the town has friendly folks and entertainment for both kids and adults.
10.Cahokia
Situated on the border with Missouri, this small town of 12,000 people (based on the 2020 census) is a dangerous suburb of St. Louis. People know it for the landmark mounds at Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, but it also includes neighborhoods where robberies and murders occur. Car theft happens at twice the state average, as do larceny and property crime. Burglary occurs at three times the state average, and violent crime lands right on target. Still, don’t overlook this town. Families can enjoy the attractions here without incident by using ride-share services and keeping their valuables protected.
So, what do you think? Did you know these were among the most dangerous cities in Illinois when it comes to crime? You may be wondering, “Is Illinois a safe place to live?” The state ranks 30th for crime, which puts it somewhere in the middle for safety. Of course, you can still find safe places to live in Illinois.
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