Is Athens or Chicago Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Athens is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 46/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,830 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 54% lower. Athens has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Athens has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 192.4x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Athens — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Athens, TX
Chicago, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Athens | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,829.7 | 4,012.2 | -2,182.5 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 422.8 | 539.9 | -117.1 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 17.5 | -17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 29.2 | 58.8 | -29.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 43.7 | 335.3 | -291.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 349.9 | 128.3 | +221.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,406.9 | 3,472.4 | -2,065.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 247.9 | 294.8 | -46.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,108.0 | 2,318.8 | -1,210.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 51.0 | 858.9 | -807.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Athens or Chicago safer?
Athens is safer with a total crime rate of 1,830 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 54% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Athens has a violent crime rate of 422.8 per 100K while Chicago has 539.9. Athens has lower violent crime.
About Athens, TX
Athens, Texas, the "Black-Eyed Pea Capital of the World," is a city in Henderson County, situated amongst the Piney Woods region. With a population around 13,000, it's home to Trinity Valley Community College. With a safety score of 46/100 and a population coverage of 13,718, Athens has a total crime rate of 1,829.7 per 100,000 residents.
About Chicago, IL
Chicago, Illinois, a major Midwest hub and birthplace of the skyscraper, sits on Lake Michigan's shores. Its diverse population of over 2.7 million people contributes to its vibrant arts and culture scene. With a safety score of 8/100 and a population coverage of 2,638,698, Chicago has a total crime rate of 4,012.2 per 100,000 residents.