Is Alabaster or Chicago Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Alabaster is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 52/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,610 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 60% lower. Alabaster has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Alabaster has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 76.8x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Alabaster — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Alabaster, AL
Chicago, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Alabaster | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,609.9 | 4,012.2 | -2,402.3 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 99.0 | 539.9 | -440.9 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 17.5 | -17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 2.9 | 58.8 | -55.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 11.7 | 335.3 | -323.6 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 84.4 | 128.3 | -43.9 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,511.0 | 3,472.4 | -1,961.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 49.5 | 294.8 | -245.3 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,397.4 | 2,318.8 | -921.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 64.1 | 858.9 | -794.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alabaster or Chicago safer?
Alabaster is safer with a total crime rate of 1,610 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 60% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Alabaster has a violent crime rate of 99.0 per 100K while Chicago has 539.9. Alabaster has lower violent crime.
About Alabaster, AL
Alabaster, Alabama, a city named for its once-abundant marble quarries, lies just south of Birmingham. Its population, a mix of long-time residents and newer suburban families, enjoys the rolling hills of Shelby County. With a safety score of 52/100 and a population coverage of 34,349, Alabaster has a total crime rate of 1,609.9 per 100,000 residents.
About Chicago, IL
Chicago, Illinois, a major Midwest hub and birthplace of the skyscraper, sits on Lake Michigan's shores. Its diverse population of over 2.7 million people contributes to its vibrant arts and culture scene. With a safety score of 8/100 and a population coverage of 2,638,698, Chicago has a total crime rate of 4,012.2 per 100,000 residents.