Is Baraboo or Milwaukee Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Baraboo is safer than Milwaukee (Safety Score 69/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,123 per 100,000 versus 4,135 for Milwaukee — 73% 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: Milwaukee is 44.6x 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
Milwaukee — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Baraboo, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Baraboo | Milwaukee | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,122.8 | 4,135.0 | -3,012.2 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 103.5 | 1,434.3 | -1,330.8 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 23.9 | -23.9 |
| Rape Rate | 8.0 | 68.2 | -60.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 8.0 | 308.2 | -300.2 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 87.6 | 1,030.7 | -943.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,019.3 | 2,700.7 | -1,681.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 39.8 | 388.1 | -348.3 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 955.6 | 1,255.1 | -299.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 23.9 | 1,057.4 | -1,033.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Baraboo or Milwaukee safer?
Baraboo is safer with a total crime rate of 1,123 per 100K vs 4,135 for Milwaukee — a 73% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Baraboo has a violent crime rate of 103.5 per 100K while Milwaukee has 1,434.3. 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 Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee, a city on Lake Michigan's western shore, boasts a rich brewing heritage and a diverse population. Its industrial past is evident in its architecture and strong community ties. With a safety score of 8/100 and a population coverage of 560,416, Milwaukee has a total crime rate of 4,135.0 per 100,000 residents.