| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Des Plaines/100k people | Illinois/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 721 | n/a (estimate) | 1,260 | 2,004 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 5.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 11 | n/a | 19.2 | 46.9 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 14 | n/a | 24.5 | 90.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 44 | n/a | 76.9 | 146.3 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 69 | n/a (estimate) | 121 | 289 | 359 |
| Burglary | 239 | n/a | 417.7 | 290.5 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 344 | n/a | 601.2 | 1,134.4 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 69 | n/a | 120.6 | 290.4 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 652 | n/a (estimate) | 1,140 | 1,715 | 1,760 |
The Des Plaines crime rates are 40.5% lower than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 69 violent crimes in Des Plaines (121 per 100,000 people), which is 66.4% lower than the national average and there were a total of 652 property crimes (1140 per 100,000 residents) which is 35.3% lower than average.
In the latest reported crime year, Des Plaines recorded zero homicides. This statistic potentially positions the city as a paragon of security, radiating a profound sense of safety for its residents. A low number of severe violent crimes instills a deep feeling of well-being among its community but also establishes a lofty benchmark for other locales aspiring to foster equally secure environments.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Des Plaines residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 36 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 69% of Des Plaines residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 31% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Des Plaines a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Des Plaines crime rate is 41% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 1.98 crimes per day - 0.19 violent crimes and 1.79 property crimes.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Des Plaines. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Des Plaines has increased by 2.1%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 23.2%, while property crime has increased by 0.3%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Des Plaines.
Des Plaines has a poverty rate that stands at 7.9, in contrast to the national average of 15.1. Historically, a direct correlation has been observed between poverty rates and crime stats. Higher poverty rates have led to higher crime rates, while lower poverty rates have led to a reduction in Des Plaines crime rates. Income disparities and heightened poverty levels can serve as catalysts for elevated or reduced criminal activity, as individuals may or may not turn to illicit means to fulfill their basic needs. This could be one of many factors that may influence crime.
If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Des Plaines crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Des Plaines has an unemployment rate of 2.9%, compared to a national average of 4.9%.
Des Plaines has an average rental rate of $1,744 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.
| Item | Des Plaines | Illinois | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 107 | 30,690 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.8 | 2.6 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Illinois /100K | National /100K |
| Illinois | 32,213 | 263 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Tower Lakes, IL | 1,320 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Hawthorn Woods, IL | 8,495 | 0 | 137 | 137 |
| Stone Park, IL | 4,997 | 92 | 138 | 230 |
| North Barrington, IL | 2,886 | 45 | 269 | 314 |
| Forest Lake, IL | 1,341 | 46 | 272 | 318 |
| Kenilworth, IL | 2,429 | 0 | 380 | 380 |
| Winfield, IL | 10,018 | 59 | 345 | 404 |
| Des Plaines, IL | 60,159 | 121 | 1,140 | 1,260 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Orland Park, IL | 60,161 | 28 | 1,097 | 1,126 |
| Greenwood, IN | 60,157 | 109 | 1,529 | 1,638 |
| Casper, WY | 60,154 | 289 | 2,112 | 2,401 |
| Bowie, MD | 60,153 | 193 | 2,280 | 2,473 |
| Great Falls, MT | 60,209 | 574 | 3,426 | 4,001 |
| Des Plaines, IL | 60,159 | 121 | 1,140 | 1,260 |
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