| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Evanston/100k people | Illinois/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 2,139 | n/a (estimate) | 2,884 | 2,004 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 5.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 23 | n/a | 31.0 | 46.9 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 41 | n/a | 55.3 | 90.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 41 | n/a | 55.3 | 146.3 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 105 | n/a (estimate) | 142 | 289 | 359 |
| Burglary | 335 | n/a | 451.6 | 290.5 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 1,524 | n/a | 2,054.5 | 1,134.4 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 175 | n/a | 235.9 | 290.4 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 2,034 | n/a (estimate) | 2,742 | 1,715 | 1,760 |
Crime is typically categorized into two main types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. Based on the most recent report, the Evanston crime rate is higher than the national average by 36.1%. Specifically, there were 105 violent crimes in Evanston, equivalent to 142 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 60.6%. Furthermore, Evanston recorded 2034 property crimes, amounting to 2742 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 55.8%.
In the latest reported crime year, Evanston 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.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Evanston residents. Out of the respondents (49 in total), 47% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Evanston were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 53% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
To get a feel for the safety of living in Evanston, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Evanston presents a total crime rate that is 36% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Evanston experiences an average of 5.86 daily crimes, comprising 0.29 violent incidents and 5.57 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.
In the most recent crime report, year-over-year crime rates in Evanston has increased by 19.9%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Evanston, aiding residents in assessing whether it is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. These crime rates are categorized into two primary groups: violent and property crimes. Year-over-year, violent crime has decreased by 19.2%, while property crime has increased by 23%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about whether or not Evanston is a safe place to live.
Evanston has a poverty rate that stands at 11.7, 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 Evanston 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.
In Evanston, the current unemployment rate stands at 3.3%, diverging from the national average of 4.9%. The availability of job opportunities is a pivotal factor influencing unemployment and underemployment rates. Communities where individuals contend with limited employment prospects or a preponderance of low-wage positions may witness elevated rates of joblessness and income inadequacy, which can contribute to heightened crime levels driven by financial insecurity. Conversely, areas characterized by robust employment rates often experience a reduction in overall Evanston crime rates.
High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Evanston are $2,204, compared to a national average of $1,444 per month.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Item | Evanston | Illinois | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 223 | 30,690 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 3.0 | 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 |
| Stone Park, IL | 4,997 | 92 | 138 | 230 |
| Kenilworth, IL | 2,429 | 0 | 380 | 380 |
| Glencoe, IL | 9,140 | 24 | 601 | 624 |
| Riverwoods, IL | 3,636 | 27 | 618 | 645 |
| Lake Forest, IL | 19,888 | 21 | 625 | 646 |
| Highwood, IL | 5,399 | 94 | 558 | 652 |
| Westchester, IL | 16,632 | 57 | 624 | 681 |
| Evanston, IL | 75,477 | 142 | 2,742 | 2,884 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Flagstaff, AZ | 75,433 | 463 | 2,232 | 2,695 |
| Bismarck, ND | 75,566 | 278 | 2,400 | 2,678 |
| South Jordan, UT | 75,278 | 115 | 867 | 982 |
| Apple Valley, CA | 75,217 | 516 | 1,602 | 2,119 |
| Lafayette, IN | 75,191 | 600 | 2,043 | 2,642 |
| Evanston, IL | 75,477 | 142 | 2,742 | 2,884 |
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