Is Boston or Medford Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Medford is safer than Boston (Safety Score 61/100 vs 25/100), with a total crime rate of 1,379 per 100,000 versus 2,650 for Boston — 48% lower. Boston has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Medford has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Boston is 11.1x 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
Medford — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Boston, MA
Medford, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Boston | Medford | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,649.7 | 1,379.2 | +1,270.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 628.0 | 179.5 | +448.5 |
| Murder Rate | 3.6 | 0.0 | +3.6 |
| Rape Rate | 25.6 | 21.8 | +3.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 126.4 | 23.5 | +102.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 472.2 | 134.2 | +338.0 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,021.7 | 1,199.6 | +822.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 177.7 | 77.2 | +100.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,687.4 | 1,006.7 | +680.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 156.6 | 115.8 | +40.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boston or Medford safer?
Medford is safer with a total crime rate of 1,379 per 100K vs 2,650 for Boston — a 48% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Boston has a violent crime rate of 628.0 per 100K while Medford has 179.5. Medford 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 Medford, MA
Medford, home to Tufts University, is a historic city just north of Boston. Situated along the Mystic River, it's a densely populated community with a rich past, including its shipbuilding heritage. With a safety score of 61/100 and a population coverage of 59,601, Medford has a total crime rate of 1,379.2 per 100,000 residents.