Illinois is known nationally and internationally for both good and bad things, and it frequently hosts prestigious performances and events. It is present on all significant sporting fronts. Some of the world’s most esteemed museums and cultural attractions can be found here.

Illinois’ homicide rates reach historic highs, but not the entire US, despite efforts to be “A Shining City Upon a Hill.” There are several cities that are labeled as “The most Dangerous Cities in Illinois” (Photo: Pexels)

However, it might never get over its gangster past, which was summed up by Al Capone and his gang’s rise and fall.

According to Southwest Journal, in these most dangerous cities in Illinois with some of the most violent crimes today, this ill-gotten legacy still exists, which is unfortunate. After making so much progress, it is alarming to consider that homicide rates in Illinois and the nation have reached all-time highs. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that these numbers don’t necessarily reflect the entire nation. After all, America still aspires to be “A Shining City Upon a Hill.”

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According to the article published by the HouseGrail, Illinois has 1,369 cities, with populations ranging from over 2.5 million to just 14. Generalization is dangerous, as the FBI wisely points out. Numerous elements affect crime. They cover a wide range, including climate and seemingly unimportant factors like population density and poverty rate. Here are some of the most dangerous cities in Illinois:

Rockford, IL

Population: 148,655
Murder rate: 14
Average Household Income: $46,803
Poverty rate: 23.8%
Violent crimes in 2019: 1,711

Rockford, Illinois, is the county seat and northernmost city on the Rock River in Winnebago County. (Photo: iStock)

It has an abundance of diverse cultural attractions, fun things to do, and beautiful buildings. It is the fourth-largest city in the state and is situated 89 miles northwest of Chicago. It has been significantly impacted by Chi-Town in both positive and negative ways. Along with crime, it has brought opportunities and funding. The city of Rockford is interesting, however it was considered as one of the most dangerous cities in Illinois.

Rockford isn’t as wealthy as you might anticipate given its location, which is surprising. Its poverty rate is almost twice as high as the state average. The median household income in the city is just under 68% of the state’s average. The 4,848 known property offenses committed in 2019 may be explained in part by this. All major violent and nonviolent crime statistics are significantly higher than state averages.

Springfield, IL

Population: 114,394
Murder rate: 9
Average Household Income: $54,484
Poverty rate: 16.8%
Violent crimes in 2019: 889

Springfield, Illinois’ capital, has a 114,394 population, second largest outside Chicago.(Photo: iStock)

Lincoln, Springfield’s most well-known resident, leaves a legacy of justice and peace behind. Although he wasn’t born here, he resided in the state prior to serving as president. In terms of literature and the performing arts, the city is a cultural mecca. It also claims to be the home of the corndog, a mainstay of state fairs.

Springfield, the state capital, faces higher poverty rates, high crime rates, and high crime rates, including theft, burglaries, and assaults. The area’s crime statistics are similar to Rockford that’s why it was considered as one of the most dangerous cities in Illinois.

Aurora, IL

Population: 180,542
Murder rate: 12
Average Household Income: $73,071
Poverty rate: 10.9%
Violent crimes in 2019: 516

Aurora, the second-most populous city in Illinois and the 144th in the US, is primarily in DuPage and Kane Counties. (Photo: iStock)

Aurora, the second-largest city in Illinois, has a tech-driven economy, higher household income, and lower poverty rates. With three regions and 10 wards, it attracts tourists through an active visitor bureau.

Nevertheless, violent and non-violent crime rates in Aurora are alarmingly high. In 2019, the latter exceeded 2,014. With 144 and 17, respectively, auto thefts and arson are shockingly high. Additionally, there were 356 more assaults than before. Homicides tripled between 2018 and 2019, despite the fact that most rates are declining. This amount is higher than the yearly average for the state that’s why it was considered as one of the most dangerous cities in Illinois.

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