Wilmette, IL Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Wilmette, IL

Is Wilmette, IL safe in 2026?

Wilmette earns an overall crime grade of A for 2026, placing it among the safest communities in the greater Chicago metro area. With a population of 27,114 and a poverty rate of just 3.3%, the socioeconomic conditions that typically correlate with higher crime are largely absent here. Violent crime is exceptionally rare, and property crime incidents — the most common category reported — remain well below national and state benchmarks. Residents regularly enjoy outdoor spaces like Gillson Park and the Wilmette Harbor without significant safety concerns. That said, no community is entirely crime-free, and reviewing the Wilmette crime map periodically is a smart habit for staying current on any localized activity.

What is the crime rate in Wilmette, IL?

Wilmette's 2026 overall crime grade is an A, reflecting a crime environment that is substantially safer than the national average. Property crimes — including theft, vehicle break-ins, and occasional vandalism — account for the overwhelming majority of reported incidents, while violent crimes represent a very small fraction of the total. The city's median household income of $161,765 and unemployment rate of 4% contribute to a stable environment where crime rates remain consistently low year over year. The poverty rate of 3.3% is roughly one-third of the national average, a factor strongly associated with reduced crime frequency. Residents can use the interactive crime map on this page to filter by incident type and time period for a granular view of where and when the rare incidents do occur.

Which neighborhoods in Wilmette have the lowest crime?

Wilmette's overall A crime grade reflects a community where safety levels are high across virtually all neighborhoods. Areas along the Lake Michigan shoreline — including the streets adjacent to Gillson Park and the Wilmette Harbor — consistently see minimal reported incidents. The historic residential corridors near downtown Wilmette and the blocks surrounding the Wilmette Golf Club are also recognized for low incident density on the crime map. Even in the more commercially active corridors, crime remains infrequent relative to comparable suburbs. The crime map's heat-map layer is the most effective way to compare micro-level activity across Wilmette's neighborhoods, since differences tend to be marginal given the city's strong A-grade standing.

Is Wilmette a good place to live in 2026?

By nearly every measurable indicator, Wilmette ranks as one of the most livable suburbs in Illinois. The city's A overall crime grade pairs with a median home value of $683,024 and a median household income of $161,765 — figures that reflect both strong demand and economic stability. The 4% unemployment rate and 3.3% poverty rate signal a healthy local economy with limited financial stress on residents. Population density sits at a comfortable 1,937 people per square mile, giving the community a spacious, suburban feel while still supporting walkable access to parks, schools, and local amenities. Families, professionals, and retirees consistently cite Wilmette's safety record, top-rated schools, and proximity to Lake Michigan as primary reasons for choosing — and staying in — the community.

How does Wilmette's crime compare to other Chicago suburbs?

Wilmette's A crime grade positions it favorably against the vast majority of Chicago-area suburbs. While many north shore communities share similar demographic profiles, Wilmette's combination of a 3.3% poverty rate, 4% unemployment, and high median income creates conditions that consistently suppress crime rates. Property crime — the dominant category in Wilmette — occurs at rates well below what you would find in suburbs with higher density or greater economic disparity. Violent crime is a statistical rarity. For context, the national average crime grade hovers around a C, making Wilmette's A grade a meaningful distinction. Homebuyers and renters researching the area can use the crime map's comparison tools alongside this grade to benchmark Wilmette against neighboring communities like Evanston, Skokie, or Glenview.

What types of crime are most common in Wilmette?

In Wilmette, property crime is the dominant category, consistent with the pattern seen in affluent, low-density suburbs. Theft — including retail theft and opportunistic vehicle break-ins — represents the largest share of reported incidents. Vandalism and minor disturbances account for a secondary slice of activity, often concentrated near commercial corridors and park areas. Violent crimes such as assault or robbery make up a very small percentage of total incidents, keeping Wilmette's violent crime profile well below both state and national averages. The city's A overall crime grade reflects this skew toward low-severity, low-frequency incidents. Using the crime map's category filters, residents can isolate specific incident types — such as theft versus vandalism — to understand exactly where and how often each occurs across Wilmette's neighborhoods.