Is UChicago in a Safe Neighborhood?

Hey everyone, I'm considering applying to the University of Chicago, but have heard mixed reviews about its location. How safe is the surrounding area? Would I feel comfortable going out at night?

The University of Chicago is located in the Hyde Park neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago. Hyde Park is actually one of the safer neighborhoods in Chicago and is a vibrant, diverse area. It boasts beautiful Victorian architecture, a number of museums, restaurants, cafes, and shops, and lots of green space.

In general, the university itself has invested a great deal of resources into keeping the campus and surrounding area safe. There is a robust, visible police presence due to the campus police force, which is one of the largest private police forces in the world. They also have a shuttle and escort service for students getting around at night.

However, it's also important to note that safety can be somewhat relative and can depend on a person's comfort level and prior experiences. Some people might feel perfectly safe, while others may feel uncomfortable, especially at night, depending on which parts of the neighborhood you're in. Like any urban area, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially during the night hours.

Remember, straightforward statistics don't always capture subjective feelings of safety or individual experiences. If possible, visiting and asking current students about their experiences can be really helpful to get a feel for the area.