Is Allentown or Pittsburgh Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Allentown is safer than Pittsburgh (Safety Score 45/100 vs 24/100), with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100,000 versus 2,709 for Pittsburgh — 32% lower. Allentown has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Allentown has a 72% lower rate.
Note: Pittsburgh is 2.5x 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
Pittsburgh — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Allentown, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Allentown | Pittsburgh | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,841.1 | 2,708.6 | -867.5 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 272.1 | 428.5 | -156.4 |
| Murder Rate | 3.2 | 11.4 | -8.1 |
| Rape Rate | 26.5 | 51.7 | -25.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.0 | 124.2 | -67.2 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 185.4 | 239.9 | -54.5 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,569.0 | 2,280.1 | -711.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 121.2 | 232.7 | -111.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,252.0 | 1,704.4 | -452.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 195.8 | 343.0 | -147.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allentown or Pittsburgh safer?
Allentown is safer with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100K vs 2,709 for Pittsburgh — a 32% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Allentown has a violent crime rate of 272.1 per 100K while Pittsburgh has 428.5. 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 Pittsburgh, PA
Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains where three rivers meet, Pittsburgh is a city of bridges and former steel mills. Its rich industrial past shaped its distinct neighborhoods and resilient, diverse population. With a safety score of 24/100 and a population coverage of 317,177, Pittsburgh has a total crime rate of 2,708.6 per 100,000 residents.