Is Athens or Bristol Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Athens is safer than Bristol (Safety Score 33/100 vs 32/100), with a total crime rate of 2,313 per 100,000 versus 2,325 for Bristol — 1% lower. Athens has higher rates in 3 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Bristol has a 100% lower rate.
Athens — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Bristol — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Athens, AL
Bristol, TN
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Athens | Bristol | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,312.7 | 2,325.3 | -12.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 243.4 | 366.8 | -123.3 |
| Murder Rate | 6.1 | 0.0 | +6.1 |
| Rape Rate | 9.1 | 32.1 | -22.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 18.3 | 21.4 | -3.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 210.0 | 309.8 | -99.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,069.3 | 1,958.6 | +110.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 276.9 | 309.8 | -32.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,615.9 | 1,509.9 | +106.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 176.5 | 138.9 | +37.6 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Athens or Bristol safer?
Athens is safer with a total crime rate of 2,313 per 100K vs 2,325 for Bristol — a 1% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Athens has a violent crime rate of 243.4 per 100K while Bristol has 366.8. Athens has lower violent crime.
About Athens, AL
Athens, Alabama, settled in 1818, is the county seat of Limestone County. This North Alabama city, home to Athens State University, experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. With a safety score of 33/100 and a population coverage of 32,862, Athens has a total crime rate of 2,312.7 per 100,000 residents.
About Bristol, TN
Bristol, Tennessee, straddling the Virginia state line, is the "Birthplace of Country Music." This Appalachian town in Sullivan County is home to approximately 27,000 residents. With a safety score of 32/100 and a population coverage of 28,082, Bristol has a total crime rate of 2,325.3 per 100,000 residents.