Is Boston or Hanover Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Hanover is safer than Boston (Safety Score 71/100 vs 25/100), with a total crime rate of 1,086 per 100,000 versus 2,650 for Boston — 59% lower. Boston has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Hanover has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Boston is 43.9x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Boston — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Hanover — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Boston, MA
Hanover, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Boston | Hanover | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,649.7 | 1,086.1 | +1,563.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 628.0 | 106.6 | +521.4 |
| Murder Rate | 3.6 | 0.0 | +3.6 |
| Rape Rate | 25.6 | 0.0 | +25.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 126.4 | 13.3 | +113.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 472.2 | 93.3 | +378.9 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,021.7 | 979.5 | +1,042.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 177.7 | 53.3 | +124.4 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,687.4 | 872.9 | +814.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 156.6 | 53.3 | +103.3 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boston or Hanover safer?
Hanover is safer with a total crime rate of 1,086 per 100K vs 2,650 for Boston — a 59% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Boston has a violent crime rate of 628.0 per 100K while Hanover has 106.6. Hanover has lower violent crime.
About Boston, MA
Boston, a city steeped in American Revolution history, sits on Massachusetts Bay. This densely populated urban center is home to a diverse population and numerous universities. With a safety score of 25/100 and a population coverage of 659,049, Boston has a total crime rate of 2,649.7 per 100,000 residents.
About Hanover, MA
Hanover, Massachusetts, settled in 1727, is a suburban town located in Plymouth County. Its historic Four Corners area reflects its past as an agricultural community. The town is home to over 14,000 residents. With a safety score of 71/100 and a population coverage of 15,008, Hanover has a total crime rate of 1,086.1 per 100,000 residents.