Hazel Crest, IL Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Hazel Crest, IL

What is Hazel Crest's overall crime grade?

Hazel Crest, IL currently holds an overall crime grade of C- for 2026. This grade reflects a combination of property and violent crime rates relative to national and Illinois state benchmarks. A C- indicates that crime levels are above average compared to similarly sized communities, meaning residents should stay informed and take reasonable precautions. The grade is influenced in part by the village's 11.7% unemployment rate and a 15.4% poverty rate, both of which are economic factors that research consistently links to elevated crime risk.

How safe is Hazel Crest compared to other Illinois suburbs?

With a population of approximately 13,918 and a population density of 1,581 residents per square mile, Hazel Crest is a moderately dense suburb. Its C- crime grade places it in the lower-middle tier among Chicago-area suburbs. Communities with stronger economic indicators — higher median household incomes and lower unemployment — tend to score in the B or A range. Hazel Crest's median household income of $55,010 and median home value of $121,326 are below regional averages, which correlates with the elevated crime grade. That said, many residents report a strong sense of community that helps offset some of these challenges.

What types of crime are most common in Hazel Crest?

Property crimes — including theft, motor vehicle theft, and burglary — make up the majority of reported incidents in Hazel Crest, which is consistent with national patterns for suburbs in its demographic profile. Violent crimes such as assault and robbery are monitored closely by the Hazel Crest Police Department and occur at rates that contribute to the village's C- overall grade. The 15.4% poverty rate is a statistically significant driver of property crime in particular, as economic stress increases opportunistic offenses. Residents in higher-density sections of the village tend to see a greater share of these incidents.

What are the safest areas in Hazel Crest?

While Hazel Crest is a relatively compact village, crime is not uniformly distributed. Areas near well-maintained residential streets with active neighborhood associations and lower population turnover tend to report fewer incidents. Sections of the village closer to the Hazel Crest Park District have historically benefited from higher community engagement, which research shows reduces both property and violent crime rates. Given the village's overall C- grade, prospective residents are encouraged to use the interactive crime map on this page to compare specific blocks and corridors before making housing decisions. The median rent of $1,455 and median home value of $121,326 reflect relative affordability, but safety conditions do vary by location within the village.

Is Hazel Crest a good place to live in 2026?

Hazel Crest offers genuine advantages — affordable housing, proximity to Chicago, and a tight-knit community — but its C- crime grade and 11.7% unemployment rate are meaningful considerations for prospective residents. The village's poverty rate of 15.4% is notably higher than the national average of roughly 12%, which statistically correlates with above-average crime risk. For families and individuals who are budget-conscious and value community ties, Hazel Crest can still be a viable choice, particularly if you use available tools like this crime map to identify the lower-risk pockets of the village. Staying engaged with local neighborhood watch programs and the Hazel Crest Police Department can meaningfully improve your day-to-day safety experience.

How does Hazel Crest's crime rate relate to its economic data?

The relationship between economic indicators and crime is well-documented, and Hazel Crest's data illustrates this clearly. The village's unemployment rate of 11.7% is more than double the national average, and its poverty rate of 15.4% exceeds both state and national benchmarks. These factors statistically predict higher rates of both property and violent crime, which is reflected in the C- overall crime grade. The median household income of $55,010, while functional, leaves limited financial buffer for many households, and the relatively high median rent of $1,455 creates additional economic pressure. Understanding these dynamics helps residents interpret crime data in context rather than viewing incidents in isolation.