Is Allentown or Altoona Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Allentown is safer than Altoona (Safety Score 45/100 vs 35/100), with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100,000 versus 2,185 for Altoona — 16% lower. Allentown has lower rates in 5 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Altoona has a 26% lower rate.
Note: Allentown is 2.9x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Allentown — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Altoona — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Allentown, PA
Altoona, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Allentown | Altoona | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,841.1 | 2,185.1 | -344.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 272.1 | 334.7 | -62.7 |
| Murder Rate | 3.2 | 2.4 | +0.9 |
| Rape Rate | 26.5 | 75.4 | -49.0 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.0 | 73.1 | -16.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 185.4 | 183.9 | +1.5 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,569.0 | 1,850.4 | -281.3 |
| Burglary Rate | 121.2 | 332.4 | -211.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,252.0 | 1,402.5 | -150.5 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 195.8 | 115.5 | +80.3 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allentown or Altoona safer?
Allentown is safer with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100K vs 2,185 for Altoona — a 16% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Allentown has a violent crime rate of 272.1 per 100K while Altoona has 334.7. Allentown has lower violent crime.
About Allentown, PA
Allentown, a former industrial hub in eastern Pennsylvania, is the third-largest city in the state. Home to Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, it sits along the Lehigh River with a diverse population. With a safety score of 45/100 and a population coverage of 124,599, Allentown has a total crime rate of 1,841.1 per 100,000 residents.
About Altoona, PA
Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, Altoona was once a vital railroad town, home to the Pennsylvania Railroad's extensive shops. Its population of around 44,000 reflects a legacy of industrial heritage. With a safety score of 35/100 and a population coverage of 42,424, Altoona has a total crime rate of 2,185.1 per 100,000 residents.