Is Allentown or Johnstown Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Allentown is safer than Johnstown (Safety Score 45/100 vs 16/100), with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100,000 versus 3,221 for Johnstown — 43% lower. Allentown has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Allentown has a 89% lower rate.
Note: Allentown is 6.2x 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
Johnstown — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Allentown, PA
Johnstown, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Allentown | Johnstown | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,841.1 | 3,220.7 | -1,379.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 272.1 | 586.5 | -314.4 |
| Murder Rate | 3.2 | 29.8 | -26.6 |
| Rape Rate | 26.5 | 49.7 | -23.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.0 | 134.2 | -77.2 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 185.4 | 372.8 | -187.4 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,569.0 | 2,634.2 | -1,065.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 121.2 | 457.3 | -336.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,252.0 | 2,022.9 | -770.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 195.8 | 154.1 | +41.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allentown or Johnstown safer?
Allentown is safer with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100K vs 3,221 for Johnstown — a 43% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Allentown has a violent crime rate of 272.1 per 100K while Johnstown has 586.5. 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 Johnstown, PA
Nestled in a flood-prone valley, Johnstown, Pennsylvania, is a former industrial hub famous for the devastating 1889 flood. This small city in Cambria County reflects a lingering rust belt heritage. With a safety score of 16/100 and a population coverage of 20,120, Johnstown has a total crime rate of 3,220.7 per 100,000 residents.