Is Ames or Folsom Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Folsom is safer than Ames (Safety Score 52/100 vs 51/100), with a total crime rate of 1,638 per 100,000 versus 1,654 for Ames — 1% lower. Ames has lower rates in 4 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Ames has a 100% lower rate.
Ames — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Folsom — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Ames, IA
Folsom, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Ames | Folsom | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,653.8 | 1,637.8 | +16.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 148.3 | 185.7 | -37.5 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 4.6 | -4.6 |
| Rape Rate | 70.3 | 29.0 | +41.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 7.6 | 29.0 | -21.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 70.3 | 120.7 | -50.4 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,505.5 | 1,452.1 | +53.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 172.7 | 117.2 | +55.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,244.2 | 1,259.4 | -15.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 88.7 | 75.5 | +13.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ames or Folsom safer?
Folsom is safer with a total crime rate of 1,638 per 100K vs 1,654 for Ames — a 1% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Ames has a violent crime rate of 148.3 per 100K while Folsom has 185.7. Ames has lower violent crime.
About Ames, IA
Ames, Iowa, home to Iowa State University, is a city in Story County. This community in central Iowa has a significant student population, contributing to its vibrant academic atmosphere. With a safety score of 51/100 and a population coverage of 65,426, Ames has a total crime rate of 1,653.8 per 100,000 residents.
About Folsom, CA
Folsom, California, a Sacramento suburb, is known for its historic prison and significant tech presence. Situated at the base of the Sierra foothills, it boasts a growing, affluent population near Folsom Lake. With a safety score of 52/100 and a population coverage of 86,152, Folsom has a total crime rate of 1,637.8 per 100,000 residents.