Is Belton or Chicago Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Belton is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 39/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,036 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 49% lower. Belton has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Belton has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 101.9x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Belton — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Belton, TX
Chicago, IL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Belton | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,035.7 | 4,012.2 | -1,976.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 92.7 | 539.9 | -447.1 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 17.5 | -17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 50.2 | 58.8 | -8.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 0.0 | 335.3 | -335.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 42.5 | 128.3 | -85.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,943.0 | 3,472.4 | -1,529.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 231.8 | 294.8 | -63.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,518.1 | 2,318.8 | -800.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 193.1 | 858.9 | -665.7 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Belton or Chicago safer?
Belton is safer with a total crime rate of 2,036 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 49% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Belton has a violent crime rate of 92.7 per 100K while Chicago has 539.9. Belton has lower violent crime.
About Belton, TX
Belton, the county seat of Bell County, is nestled along the Leon River in Central Texas. Founded in 1850, it is home to Mary Hardin–Baylor, one of the oldest universities in Texas. Its population is around 25,000 residents. With a safety score of 39/100 and a population coverage of 25,888, Belton has a total crime rate of 2,035.7 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.