Is Kenosha Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Kenosha is a city in southeastern Wisconsin, located along the shores of Lake Michigan, roughly halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee.

With a population of around 100,000, it’s the fourth-largest city in Wisconsin.

It boasts about 21 miles of shoreline, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities along its beaches, marinas, and parks.

Founded in 1835, Kenosha originally thrived as a bustling hub for manufacturing, especially during the 20th century, when industries like auto production were central to its economy.

Over time, the city has transitioned toward a more diverse economy, with an emphasis on education, healthcare, and tourism.

Notably, it’s home to several museums, including the Civil War Museum and the Kenosha Public Museum.

“What does the Midwest have to do with the Civil War?” you ask.

That’s EXACTLY why the museum is there!

Kenosha has a distinct historical connection to transportation as well, once serving as a key stop along the Chicago North Shore and Milwaukee Electric Railway.

Today, visitors can ride the Kenosha Electric Streetcar, which loops through downtown and along the lakefront.

While the city has made headlines in recent years for violence and is now turning into a stop for politicians looking to make their mark, there’s so much more than you’ve read about Kenosha.

Enjoy the waterfront, lighthouses, museums, downtown district, and outdoor adventures close to major metropolitan areas.

Kenosha has something for everyone every season.

Warnings & Dangers in Kenosha

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Kenosha's reputation is worse than its reality. There's a low risk, but it's more like an average risk.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Kenosha’s public transportation system is primarily served by Kenosha Area Transit (KAT), offering local bus routes throughout the city and connections to nearby communities. Additionally, the Kenosha Electric Streetcar provides a unique, scenic ride through the downtown area and waterfront. Commuters can access nearby cities via Metra’s Union Pacific North Line, connecting to Chicago. Taxis, rideshares, and rental cars are also available.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Sixteen pickpockets and purse snatchings were reported in 2023, with pickpockets being three times as likely. The risk is still low since that boils down to less than two a month, but don't let your guard down.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Kenosha faces a medium natural disaster risk, including winter storms, floods, and occasional tornadoes. Being along Lake Michigan, the city can experience flooding, especially during heavy rainfall or snowmelt. Tornadoes, though rare, do pose a seasonal risk, particularly in spring and summer. Expect bitterly cold temperatures in winter.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

The robbery rate is 48% lower than the national average. In 2023, about half of all robberies were highway robberies. While the risk is low, it still warrants using smart personal safety steps, like not walking around at night alone.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Kenosha has a low terrorism risk compared to major metropolitan areas like Chicago and Milwaukee. The best thing you can do is report any suspicious activity to the local police.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Check local police department and sheriff’s office social media sites for the latest scams. That will help keep the risk low. Most of the scams I saw were run-of-the-mill and targeting residents.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

While women are more likely to be the victim of a violent crime in Kenosha, that also comes with the caveat that most of those crimes are domestic. Just 11% of violent crimes targeted strangers.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

The U.S. has strict standards for tap water per the Safe Water Drinking Act. Communities are required to provide a Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) once a year by July 1.

Safest Places to Visit in Kenosha

The Visit Kenosha website is filled with information about Kenosha County, which heavily leans into the things to do in Kenosha (the city).

Go Downtown Kenosha is the name of the website for the city’s downtown.

It’s located right near the expansive waterfront.

The Civil War Museum is a unique stop for history buffs, offering exhibits on the Midwest’s role in the Civil War.

Right next door, you’ll find the Kenosha Public Museum, which features natural history exhibits and fine arts collections.

Afterward, head over to the Dinosaur Discovery Museum for a fun dive into the world of prehistoric creatures—it’s small but worth a quick visit.

Weekend visitors should stop by the Kenosha HarborMarket, where you can browse local artisan goods and fresh produce while grabbing a bite from one of the food vendors.

Afterward, head toward the waterfront and take in the views of the Kenosha Pierhead Lighthouse and Lake Michigan.

For something more active, rent a bike and cruise along the Lakefront Promenade.

This path offers great views and leads you to Simmons Island Beach, one of the city’s most popular spots for relaxing or swimming in the warmer months.

You’ll also find the Southport Light Station Museum nearby, where you can climb the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the lake and city.

Beyond the waterfront, make time for Petrifying Springs Park, located just outside the downtown area.

Locals love it for its lush trails, picnic spots, and golf course.

Anderson Arts Center, set in a historic mansion, provides a relaxing end to your day with its art exhibits and beautiful gardens.

One of the best roadside attractions in Wisconsin is the Mars Cheese Castle, located off I-94 near Kenosha.

This local landmark is famous for its extensive selection of cheeses, sausages, and local treats.

Open since 1947, it offers a quirky shopping experience with artisan foods, beer, and wines.

Winter activities are popular here, and Wisconsinites don’t let the bitter cold keep them from enjoying the snow.

Less than an hour west is Wilmot Mountain, a ski resort under the Vail Resorts name.

Most local and state parks nearby will have sledding, tubing, or cross-country options in winter.

Those looking to go shopping can explore the unique shops of downtown Kenosha, but there’s also the Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets right off of I-94, south of Kenosha.

Places to Avoid in Kenosha

Kenosha is dealing with gentrification, which could make neighborhoods that aren’t ideal to visit today more desirable in the future.

However, the consensus is that there aren’t neighborhoods that are too dangerous in Kenosha.

That’s especially true, being so close to Chicago, where there are very dangerous neighborhoods.

The best thing to do is plot your itinerary and stay on main roads and highways as you travel around.

That way, you won’t accidentally end up in a shady neighborhood.

Most places you would want to avoid will be easy to spot with blight.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Kenosha

So... How Safe Is Kenosha Really?

The violent crime rate in Kenosha for 2023 was just under the national average.

Aggravated assault was also at the national average, with sexual assault coming in higher than the average.

Whether real or perceived, a series of incidents from 2020 have left a lasting mark on Kenosha.

In 2020, after police shot Jacob Blake and left him paralyzed, Kenosha erupted in protests that quickly escalated into violence.

Over several days, from August 23 to September 1, the city saw widespread looting, fires, and significant property damage, with numerous buildings destroyed.

On August 25, during the chaos, 17-year-old Kyle Rittenhouse shot three people, killing two.

The unrest caused an estimated $50 million in damage.

Even years later, tensions in Kenosha remain as the city processes the events and their aftermath.

Theft rates in 2023 were 42% lower than the national average, with shoplifting being one of the top categories.

I was surprised to see that just 12% of thefts were related to car break-ins or accessory thefts.

Usually, that number is closer to 30%.

Visiting Kenosha means using basic safety steps as you would in any new city and realizing that Wisconsin has a higher crime rate overall than you might expect.

How Does Kenosha Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

All international visitors need either a visa defining the purpose of the trip (tourist, work, school, etc.) or a visa waiver. Start the process using the Visa Wizard module on the U.S. State Department website. You can also download the CBP One mobile app for help on the go. Also, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your trip, or you’ll need to apply for a new one.

Currency

Only the U.S. Dollar (USD) is accepted in the United States. International airports usually have a currency exchange desk on site, while regional airports won’t. Your home bank offers the lowest fees. For those using credit cards, check to see if there’s a foreign transaction fee. Credit cards, not debit cards, offer the best fraud protection.

Weather

Kenosha experiences all four seasons. Summers are warm, with highs around 80°F, while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to the low 20s. Spring and fall bring moderate temperatures. Snowfall averages about 40 inches per year, and rainfall is common in late spring and early summer. Spring brings the biggest threat of severe weather.

Airports

The closest commercial airport to Kenosha is Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE), located about 30 miles north. Another option is Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), roughly 50 miles south, which serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance protects the cost of baggage loss/theft, delays, cancelations, and emergency health issues. Rental car insurance should include roadside assistance and uninsured motorist coverage. Comprehensive insurance offers the best peace of mind.

Kenosha Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Wisconsin - Safety by City