Is Allentown or Philadelphia Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Allentown is safer than Philadelphia (Safety Score 45/100 vs 3/100), with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100,000 versus 5,458 for Philadelphia — 66% lower. Allentown has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Allentown has a 81% lower rate.
Note: Philadelphia is 12.4x 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
Philadelphia — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Allentown, PA
Philadelphia, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Allentown | Philadelphia | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,841.1 | 5,458.5 | -3,617.4 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 272.1 | 910.3 | -638.2 |
| Murder Rate | 3.2 | 16.9 | -13.7 |
| Rape Rate | 26.5 | 46.1 | -19.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.0 | 273.2 | -216.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 185.4 | 572.5 | -387.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,569.0 | 4,548.2 | -2,979.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 121.2 | 319.0 | -197.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,252.0 | 3,223.6 | -1,971.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 195.8 | 1,005.6 | -809.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allentown or Philadelphia safer?
Allentown is safer with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100K vs 5,458 for Philadelphia — a 66% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Allentown has a violent crime rate of 272.1 per 100K while Philadelphia has 910.3. 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 Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence, is Pennsylvania's largest city. Situated along the Delaware River, its diverse population contributes to a rich urban tapestry. With a safety score of 3/100 and a population coverage of 1,549,259, Philadelphia has a total crime rate of 5,458.5 per 100,000 residents.