Is Boston or Westborough Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Westborough is safer than Boston (Safety Score 73/100 vs 25/100), with a total crime rate of 1,027 per 100,000 versus 2,650 for Boston — 61% lower. Boston has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Westborough has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Boston is 29.2x 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
Westborough — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Boston, MA
Westborough, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Boston | Westborough | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,649.7 | 1,027.0 | +1,622.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 628.0 | 225.8 | +402.3 |
| Murder Rate | 3.6 | 0.0 | +3.6 |
| Rape Rate | 25.6 | 70.8 | -45.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 126.4 | 8.9 | +117.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 472.2 | 146.1 | +326.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,021.7 | 801.2 | +1,220.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 177.7 | 101.8 | +75.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,687.4 | 628.6 | +1,058.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 156.6 | 70.8 | +85.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boston or Westborough safer?
Westborough is safer with a total crime rate of 1,027 per 100K vs 2,650 for Boston — a 61% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Boston has a violent crime rate of 628.0 per 100K while Westborough has 225.8. Westborough 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 Westborough, MA
Westborough, Massachusetts, a Middlesex Canal town, sits at the intersection of I-90 and I-495, boasting a highly educated population. Its historic town common reflects its New England heritage. With a safety score of 73/100 and a population coverage of 22,591, Westborough has a total crime rate of 1,027.0 per 100,000 residents.