Is Albany or Chicago Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Albany is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 26/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,631 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 34% lower. Albany has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Albany has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 140.8x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Albany — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Albany, CA
Chicago, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Albany | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,631.4 | 4,012.2 | -1,380.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 138.8 | 539.9 | -401.1 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 17.5 | -17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 10.7 | 58.8 | -48.1 |
| Robbery Rate | 53.4 | 335.3 | -281.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 74.7 | 128.3 | -53.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,492.7 | 3,472.4 | -979.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 298.9 | 294.8 | +4.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,894.9 | 2,318.8 | -423.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 298.9 | 858.9 | -560.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Albany or Chicago safer?
Albany is safer with a total crime rate of 2,631 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 34% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Albany has a violent crime rate of 138.8 per 100K while Chicago has 539.9. Albany has lower violent crime.
About Albany, CA
Albany, California, a small East Bay city, boasts a rich history as home to Golden Gate Fields. Bordered by Berkeley and El Cerrito, its diverse population enjoys a vibrant urban-suburban mix along the San Francisco Bay. With a safety score of 26/100 and a population coverage of 18,735, Albany has a total crime rate of 2,631.4 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.