Is Allentown or New Kensington Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Allentown is safer than New Kensington (Safety Score 45/100 vs 22/100), with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100,000 versus 2,857 for New Kensington — 36% lower. Allentown has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Allentown has a 62% lower rate.
Note: Allentown is 10.5x 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
New Kensington — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Allentown, PA
New Kensington, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Allentown | New Kensington | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,841.1 | 2,856.7 | -1,015.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 272.1 | 456.4 | -184.3 |
| Murder Rate | 3.2 | 8.5 | -5.2 |
| Rape Rate | 26.5 | 25.4 | +1.1 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.0 | 67.6 | -10.6 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 185.4 | 355.0 | -169.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,569.0 | 2,400.3 | -831.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 121.2 | 371.9 | -250.7 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,252.0 | 1,859.4 | -607.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 195.8 | 169.0 | +26.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allentown or New Kensington safer?
Allentown is safer with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100K vs 2,857 for New Kensington — a 36% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Allentown has a violent crime rate of 272.1 per 100K while New Kensington has 456.4. 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 New Kensington, PA
New Kensington, a former industrial hub along the Allegheny River, was once home to Alcoa's research facilities. Its population has steadily declined since its mid-20th century peak, reflecting broader trends in many Rust Belt communities. With a safety score of 22/100 and a population coverage of 11,832, New Kensington has a total crime rate of 2,856.7 per 100,000 residents.