Is Auburn or Columbus Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Auburn is safer than Columbus (Safety Score 91/100 vs 22/100), with a total crime rate of 532 per 100,000 versus 2,844 for Columbus — 81% lower. Auburn has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in violent crime, where Auburn has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Columbus is 19.1x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Auburn — 0-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Columbus — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Auburn, GA
Columbus, GA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Auburn | Columbus | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 532.0 | 2,843.9 | -2,311.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 0.0 | 608.3 | -608.3 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 12.9 | -12.9 |
| Rape Rate | 0.0 | 25.4 | -25.4 |
| Robbery Rate | 0.0 | 50.7 | -50.7 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 0.0 | 514.8 | -514.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 532.0 | 2,235.6 | -1,703.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 180.5 | 353.6 | -173.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 313.5 | 1,635.8 | -1,322.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 38.0 | 246.2 | -208.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Auburn or Columbus safer?
Auburn is safer with a total crime rate of 532 per 100K vs 2,844 for Columbus — a 81% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Auburn has a violent crime rate of 0.0 per 100K while Columbus has 608.3. Auburn has lower violent crime.
About Auburn, GA
Auburn, Georgia, a small town in Barrow County, was named for its red clay soil. Historically an agricultural community, its population was 7,495 in 2020. With a safety score of 91/100 and a population coverage of 10,527, Auburn has a total crime rate of 532.0 per 100,000 residents.
About Columbus, GA
Columbus, Georgia, a city on the Chattahoochee River, is home to Fort Moore, a major US Army installation. Its population of over 200,000 residents enjoys a vibrant arts scene and a rich industrial heritage. With a safety score of 22/100 and a population coverage of 201,061, Columbus has a total crime rate of 2,843.9 per 100,000 residents.