| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | River Forest/100k people | Illinois/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 284 | n/a (estimate) | 2,563 | 2,004 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 5.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 46.9 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 5 | n/a | 45.1 | 90.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 5 | n/a | 45.1 | 146.3 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 10 | n/a (estimate) | 90 | 289 | 359 |
| Burglary | 64 | n/a | 577.6 | 290.5 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 204 | n/a | 1,841.2 | 1,134.4 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 6 | n/a | 54.2 | 290.4 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 274 | n/a (estimate) | 2,473 | 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 River Forest crime rate is higher than the national average by 21%. Specifically, there were 10 violent crimes in River Forest, equivalent to 90 per 100,000 individuals, lower than the national average by 74.9%. Furthermore, River Forest recorded 274 property crimes, amounting to 2473 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 40.5%.
River Forest has one of the lowest violent crime rates of all cities in the United States. With a rate of 90 violent crimes per 100,000 people, River Forest ranks among the safest cities in the United States making it an attractive choice for those seeking a new place to call home.
In the most recently reported crime year, River Forest registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.
AreaVibes has conducted polls asking local residents if they feel safe living in River Forest. Based on the results of the surveys (7 responses), 86% of people felt that there was very little crime in River Forest and felt safe walking alone at night. While 14% of people felt that it was not a safe place to live and did not feel safe walking alone at night.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is River Forest 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 River Forest crime rate is 21% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.78 crimes per day - 0.03 violent crimes and 0.75 property crimes.
Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in River Forest crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in River Forest has increased by 76.4% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 25% and property crime has increased by 79.1%.
River Forest has a poverty rate of 2.2, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.
Rising cost of living expenses, including increased housing costs, grocery, utility and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards crime, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In River Forest, the cost of living is 56.88% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.
River Forest has an average rental rate of $2,015 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.
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 | River Forest | Illinois | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 31 | 30,690 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.8 | 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 |
| Stone Park, IL | 4,997 | 92 | 138 | 230 |
| Western Springs, IL | 13,775 | 8 | 273 | 280 |
| Indian Head Park, IL | 3,873 | 0 | 312 | 312 |
| Kenilworth, IL | 2,429 | 0 | 380 | 380 |
| Willow Springs, IL | 5,786 | 0 | 390 | 390 |
| Clarendon Hills, IL | 9,104 | 0 | 434 | 434 |
| Palos Hills, IL | 17,664 | 68 | 411 | 479 |
| River Forest, IL | 11,215 | 90 | 2,473 | 2,563 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Tega Cay, SC | 11,216 | 28 | 297 | 325 |
| Farmersville, CA | 11,216 | 491 | 1,011 | 1,501 |
| Shiloh, PA | 11,217 | 205 | 1,195 | 1,400 |
| Totowa, NJ | 11,212 | 128 | 1,919 | 2,047 |
| Dobbs Ferry, NY | 11,212 | 145 | 655 | 800 |
| River Forest, IL | 11,215 | 90 | 2,473 | 2,563 |
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