Is Bristol or Philadelphia Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Bristol is safer than Philadelphia (Safety Score 32/100 vs 3/100), with a total crime rate of 2,325 per 100,000 versus 5,458 for Philadelphia — 57% lower. Bristol has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Bristol has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Philadelphia is 55.2x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Bristol — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Philadelphia — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Bristol, TN
Philadelphia, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Bristol | Philadelphia | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,325.3 | 5,458.5 | -3,133.2 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 366.8 | 910.3 | -543.5 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 16.9 | -16.9 |
| Rape Rate | 32.1 | 46.1 | -14.0 |
| Robbery Rate | 21.4 | 273.2 | -251.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 309.8 | 572.5 | -262.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,958.6 | 4,548.2 | -2,589.6 |
| Burglary Rate | 309.8 | 319.0 | -9.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,509.9 | 3,223.6 | -1,713.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 138.9 | 1,005.6 | -866.7 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bristol or Philadelphia safer?
Bristol is safer with a total crime rate of 2,325 per 100K vs 5,458 for Philadelphia — a 57% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Bristol has a violent crime rate of 366.8 per 100K while Philadelphia has 910.3. Bristol has lower violent crime.
About Bristol, TN
Bristol, Tennessee, straddling the Virginia state line, is the "Birthplace of Country Music." This Appalachian town in Sullivan County is home to approximately 27,000 residents. With a safety score of 32/100 and a population coverage of 28,082, Bristol has a total crime rate of 2,325.3 per 100,000 residents.
About Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence, is Pennsylvania's largest city. Situated along the Delaware River, its diverse population contributes to a rich urban tapestry. With a safety score of 3/100 and a population coverage of 1,549,259, Philadelphia has a total crime rate of 5,458.5 per 100,000 residents.