Is Allentown or Washington Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Allentown is safer than Washington (Safety Score 45/100 vs 32/100), with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100,000 versus 2,337 for Washington — 21% lower. Allentown has lower rates in 5 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Washington has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Allentown is 9.2x 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
Washington — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Allentown, PA
Washington, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Allentown | Washington | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,841.1 | 2,337.1 | -496.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 272.1 | 695.2 | -423.1 |
| Murder Rate | 3.2 | 0.0 | +3.2 |
| Rape Rate | 26.5 | 29.6 | -3.1 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.0 | 147.9 | -90.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 185.4 | 517.7 | -332.3 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,569.0 | 1,641.9 | -72.9 |
| Burglary Rate | 121.2 | 266.3 | -145.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,252.0 | 1,161.2 | +90.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 195.8 | 214.5 | -18.7 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allentown or Washington safer?
Allentown is safer with a total crime rate of 1,841 per 100K vs 2,337 for Washington — a 21% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Allentown has a violent crime rate of 272.1 per 100K while Washington has 695.2. 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 Washington, PA
Washington, PA, a county seat in Southwestern Pennsylvania, was founded in 1781. The city is home to Washington & Jefferson College and lies along Interstate 70, just south of Pittsburgh. With a safety score of 32/100 and a population coverage of 13,521, Washington has a total crime rate of 2,337.1 per 100,000 residents.