| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | South Elgin/100k people | Illinois/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 209 | n/a (estimate) | 856 | 2,004 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 5.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 13 | n/a | 53.2 | 46.9 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 2 | n/a | 8.2 | 90.2 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 31 | n/a | 126.9 | 146.3 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 46 | n/a (estimate) | 188 | 289 | 359 |
| Burglary | 22 | n/a | 90.1 | 290.5 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 121 | n/a | 495.5 | 1,134.4 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 20 | n/a | 81.9 | 290.4 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 163 | n/a (estimate) | 667 | 1,715 | 1,760 |

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in South Elgin is 59.6% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In South Elgin, there were 46 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 188 per 100,000 individuals, 47.5% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 163 property crimes, amounting to 667 per 100,000 residents, 62.1% lower than the U.S. average.
South Elgin showcased a dedication to violent crime safety in its latest reported crime year by achieving a murder rate of 0. This accomplishment could indicate that it is a safe place for residents, but also provides a shining example to other urban areas endeavoring to create safer communities.
Property crime rates per 100,000 people have declined steadily since 1990, but did see a slight increase in recent years. Based on the most recent crime data, South Elgin has a property crime rate of 667 crimes per 100,000 people, which is far below the national average of 1760. This is a good indicator that South Elgin is a safe place to live.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of South Elgin residents. Out of the respondents (6 in total), 67% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in South Elgin were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 33% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is South Elgin 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 South Elgin crime rate is 60% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.57 crimes per day - 0.13 violent crimes and 0.45 property crimes.
Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in South Elgin. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in South Elgin has increased by 74.2%. Violent crimes have increased by 187.5%, while property crimes have increased by 56.7%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.
In areas where employment options are limited or where a significant proportion of jobs offer meager wages, the likelihood of heightened unemployment and homelessness increases. Regions facing challenges related to unemployment or inadequate income may become more vulnerable to a surge in crime stemming from economic instability. While low unemployment rates tend to lead to reduced crime in most areas. South Elgin currently has an unemployment rate of 3.4%, contrasting with the national average of 4.9%. This could be one of many factors that could contribute to a higher or lower crime rate.
In South Elgin, the cost of living is 9.38% higher than the national average. A substantial cost of living can burden residents, particularly those with constrained financial means. When individuals contend with steep housing expenses, grocery bills, utility costs, healthcare and essential needs that strain their budgets, they may turn to criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities characterized by a more affordable cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, which could potentially lead to decreased crime rates.
Law enforcement and community policing efforts can play a pivotal role in shaping crime rates. Establishing a robust and cooperative partnership between the police and the community can act as a deterrent to criminal behavior and enhance overall safety. In South Elgin, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents differs from the national average, with 1.58 officers and civilians per 1,000 residents compared to 3.25 nationally. Effective law enforcement often hinges on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the community. It's not solely about the quantity of officers but also the quality of their engagement with the community.

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 | South Elgin | Illinois | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 35 | 30,690 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.6 | 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 |
| Campton Hills, IL | 11,243 | 9 | 46 | 56 |
| Wayne, IL | 2,558 | 0 | 89 | 89 |
| Pingree Grove, IL | 9,076 | 9 | 158 | 167 |
| Gilberts, IL | 8,116 | 34 | 213 | 247 |
| Prestbury, IL | 2,025 | 41 | 241 | 281 |
| Lily Lake, IL | 1,360 | 41 | 241 | 281 |
| Sleepy Hollow, IL | 3,351 | 0 | 289 | 289 |
| South Elgin, IL | 24,226 | 188 | 667 | 856 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Pelham, AL | 24,223 | 165 | 728 | 893 |
| Cudahy, CA | 24,233 | 654 | 1,435 | 2,089 |
| Tumwater, WA | 24,235 | 196 | 2,078 | 2,274 |
| Monsey, NY | 24,236 | 252 | 1,139 | 1,391 |
| Bailey's Crossroads, VA | 24,246 | 169 | 1,217 | 1,386 |
| South Elgin, IL | 24,226 | 188 | 667 | 856 |