Is Allentown or Lancaster Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Allentown is safer than Lancaster (Safety Score 45/100 vs 43/100), with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100,000 versus 1,914 for Lancaster — 4% lower. Allentown has higher rates in 2 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Lancaster has a 51% lower rate.
Note: Allentown is 2.2x 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
Lancaster — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Allentown, PA
Lancaster, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Allentown | Lancaster | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,841.1 | 1,914.2 | -73.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 272.1 | 462.3 | -190.2 |
| Murder Rate | 3.2 | 3.5 | -0.3 |
| Rape Rate | 26.5 | 31.6 | -5.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.0 | 28.1 | +28.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 185.4 | 397.3 | -211.9 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,569.0 | 1,451.9 | +117.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 121.2 | 107.2 | +14.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,252.0 | 1,181.2 | +70.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 195.8 | 163.5 | +32.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allentown or Lancaster safer?
Allentown is safer with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100K vs 1,914 for Lancaster — a 4% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Allentown has a violent crime rate of 272.1 per 100K while Lancaster has 462.3. 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 Lancaster, PA
Lancaster, PA, known as the Red Rose City, is a historic city in south-central Pennsylvania. Its diverse population of nearly 60,000 residents includes a significant Amish presence, contributing to its unique cultural landscape. With a safety score of 43/100 and a population coverage of 56,890, Lancaster has a total crime rate of 1,914.2 per 100,000 residents.