Is Baraboo or Chicago Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Baraboo is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 69/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,123 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 72% lower. Baraboo has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Baraboo has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 210.1x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Baraboo — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Baraboo, WI
Chicago, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Baraboo | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,122.8 | 4,012.2 | -2,889.5 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 103.5 | 539.9 | -436.3 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 17.5 | -17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 8.0 | 58.8 | -50.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 8.0 | 335.3 | -327.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 87.6 | 128.3 | -40.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,019.3 | 3,472.4 | -2,453.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 39.8 | 294.8 | -255.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 955.6 | 2,318.8 | -1,363.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 23.9 | 858.9 | -835.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Baraboo or Chicago safer?
Baraboo is safer with a total crime rate of 1,123 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 72% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Baraboo has a violent crime rate of 103.5 per 100K while Chicago has 539.9. Baraboo has lower violent crime.
About Baraboo, WI
Baraboo, nestled in the scenic Baraboo Range, is a small city of about 12,000 residents. It's famously known as the historic winter home of the Ringling Bros. Circus. With a safety score of 69/100 and a population coverage of 12,558, Baraboo has a total crime rate of 1,122.8 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.