Buying a home isn’t just a contract to the property, it can be a lifelong commitment to the surrounding community, too.
Feeling safe in a community is a major factor for families when it comes to choosing where to plant roots. Luckily, Niche, a website offering rankings and statistics on towns, schools and colleges, also publishes a ranking of the safest places to live. See the rankings below to find out how towns in Cook County stack up.
These statistics were calculated based on specific crime rates. Data for these categories come from the FBI, CDC and user generated data sources. You can find the full methodology here.
Here are the top 10 safest places to live in Cook County on the list.
Northbrook
- Average home value: $621,600
- Population: 34,950
Northbrook has excellent schools as well as family activity hotspots like the Ed Rudolph Velodrome, the Chicago Curling Club, and the Northbrook Public Library.
Western Springs
- Average home value: $680,900
- Population: 13,557
Western Springs includes two recreational centers, a public pool and a library. Families enjoy excellent schools and parks, too.
Wilmette
- Average home value: $771,500
- Population: 27,801
Families in Wilmette have easy access to two beaches the Wilmette Park District owns and manages on the Village’s eastern border along Lake Michigan. The village has highly rated schools and outdoor activities.
Glenview
- Average home value: $590,600
- Population: 47,896
Historic Glenview offers families access to 34 parks and playgrounds covering more than 290 acres as well as top rated public schools.
Barrington
- Average home value: $543,700
- Population: 11,244
Families looking for a safe, tight knit community can find it in Barrington. The town is also home to a historic theater, parks and more.
Burr Ridge
- Average home value: $706,400
- Population: 11,131
The vibrant and safe municipality of Burr Ridge is home to Harvester Park, a popular spot for families looking outdoor fun.
Riverside
- Average home value: $471,100
- Population: 9,225
Riverside is known for its charming historic district home to many architectural gems. Families enjoy good parks and schools, too, in this safe suburb.
La Grange Park
- Average home value: $394,500
- Population: 13,332
La Grange Park earns an “A+” in the “public schools” and “good for families” categories from Niche and high scores in the categories for housing, commuting, jobs and outdoor activities.
River Forest
- Average home value: $668,900
- Population: 11,568
Along with being a safe place to raise a family, many historic homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright are located in River Forest.
Inverness
- Average home value: $699,400
- Population: 7,722
The historic village of Inverness is an exceptionally safe community. It earns an “A+” from Niche in the categories for schools and “good for families.”
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