Is Allentown or Erie Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Allentown is safer than Erie (Safety Score 45/100 vs 33/100), with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100,000 versus 2,305 for Erie — 20% lower. Allentown has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Allentown has a 41% lower rate.
Allentown — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Erie — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Allentown, PA
Erie, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Allentown | Erie | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,841.1 | 2,304.6 | -463.5 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 272.1 | 375.6 | -103.6 |
| Murder Rate | 3.2 | 5.4 | -2.2 |
| Rape Rate | 26.5 | 41.1 | -14.7 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.0 | 67.1 | -10.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 185.4 | 262.0 | -76.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,569.0 | 1,929.0 | -360.0 |
| Burglary Rate | 121.2 | 194.9 | -73.7 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,252.0 | 1,645.4 | -393.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 195.8 | 88.8 | +107.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allentown or Erie safer?
Allentown is safer with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100K vs 2,305 for Erie — a 20% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Allentown has a violent crime rate of 272.1 per 100K while Erie has 375.6. 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 Erie, PA
Erie, a Rust Belt city on Lake Erie's southern shore, is home to the historic Presque Isle State Park. Its economy historically revolved around manufacturing and shipping. With a safety score of 33/100 and a population coverage of 92,379, Erie has a total crime rate of 2,304.6 per 100,000 residents.