Do you remember the good old days when you could walk down the street without fear of crime? Well, according to recent data, Chicago’s crime rates may not be as bad as we think. In fact, compared to other cities in America, we’re doing pretty well. So, let’s dive into the numbers and take a trip down memory lane.
Crime Rates in Chicago
Now, before we get into the comparisons, let’s take a look at the actual numbers. According to the data, Chicago’s crime rate in 2016 was approximately 29% higher than the national average. While this may seem concerning, it’s important to note that crime rates have been steadily decreasing in Chicago over the past decade.
In fact, in 2019, the overall crime rate in Chicago dropped by 10.4% from the previous year. This was the third consecutive year of decline and the lowest crime rate the city has seen since 2015. Additionally, the number of shootings in Chicago decreased by 13% in 2019.
Comparing Chicago to Other Cities
Now that we have a better understanding of Chicago’s crime rates, let’s compare them to other cities in America. According to the data, Chicago’s crime rate in 2016 was lower than many other major cities, including St. Louis, Detroit, and New Orleans.
| City | Crime Rate (2016) |
|---|---|
| Chicago | 29% above national average |
| St. Louis | 143% above national average |
| Detroit | 87% above national average |
| New Orleans | 72% above national average |
As we can see from the table, Chicago’s crime rate is significantly lower than some of the other major cities in America. However, it’s still important to take precautions and stay aware of our surroundings when walking around the city.
Staying Safe
While Chicago may not have the highest crime rate in America, it’s still important to take steps to ensure our safety. Here are some tips to help you stay safe in the city:
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times
- Avoid walking alone at night
- Stay in well-lit areas with a lot of foot traffic
- Keep your valuables out of sight
- Don’t flash cash or expensive electronics
- Trust your instincts and stay away from suspicious individuals or areas
Remember, by taking these simple steps, we can help make the city a safer place for everyone.
In Conclusion
While Chicago’s crime rate may be higher than the national average, we’re still doing pretty well compared to other major cities in America. By staying aware of our surroundings and taking precautions, we can help ensure our safety while enjoying all that the city has to offer.
So, the next time you’re taking a stroll down memory lane, remember that Chicago’s crime rates may not be as bad as we think.
