Is Athens or Mobile Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Athens is safer than Mobile (Safety Score 33/100 vs 30/100), with a total crime rate of 2,313 per 100,000 versus 2,426 for Mobile — 5% lower. Athens has lower rates in 4 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in violent crime, where Athens has a 68% lower rate.
Note: Mobile is 7.2x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Athens — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Mobile — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Athens, AL
Mobile, AL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Athens | Mobile | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,312.7 | 2,426.5 | -113.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 243.4 | 752.0 | -508.6 |
| Murder Rate | 6.1 | 16.5 | -10.4 |
| Rape Rate | 9.1 | 26.2 | -17.0 |
| Robbery Rate | 18.3 | 52.7 | -34.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 210.0 | 656.7 | -446.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,069.3 | 1,674.5 | +394.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 276.9 | 313.4 | -36.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,615.9 | 1,188.6 | +427.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 176.5 | 172.5 | +4.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Athens or Mobile safer?
Athens is safer with a total crime rate of 2,313 per 100K vs 2,426 for Mobile — a 5% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Athens has a violent crime rate of 243.4 per 100K while Mobile has 752.0. 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 Mobile, AL
Mobile, Alabama, a port city on Mobile Bay, boasts a rich Mardi Gras tradition predating New Orleans. Its population is predominantly African American, reflecting its deep Southern roots. With a safety score of 30/100 and a population coverage of 237,092, Mobile has a total crime rate of 2,426.5 per 100,000 residents.