Is Boston or Holliston Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Holliston is safer than Boston (Safety Score 99/100 vs 25/100), with a total crime rate of 216 per 100,000 versus 2,650 for Boston — 92% lower. Boston has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Holliston has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Boston is 43.0x 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
Holliston — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Boston, MA
Holliston, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Boston | Holliston | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,649.7 | 215.6 | +2,434.2 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 628.0 | 32.7 | +595.4 |
| Murder Rate | 3.6 | 0.0 | +3.6 |
| Rape Rate | 25.6 | 13.1 | +12.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 126.4 | 0.0 | +126.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 472.2 | 19.6 | +452.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,021.7 | 182.9 | +1,838.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 177.7 | 39.2 | +138.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,687.4 | 130.6 | +1,556.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 156.6 | 13.1 | +143.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boston or Holliston safer?
Holliston is safer with a total crime rate of 216 per 100K vs 2,650 for Boston — a 92% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Boston has a violent crime rate of 628.0 per 100K while Holliston has 32.7. Holliston 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 Holliston, MA
Holliston, a Middlesex County town, was once a thriving bootmaking center. Its rolling hills and woodlands contribute to a rural feel, with a population just over 18,000. With a safety score of 99/100 and a population coverage of 15,309, Holliston has a total crime rate of 215.6 per 100,000 residents.