Is Buffalo or Dunkirk Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Dunkirk is safer than Buffalo (Safety Score 35/100 vs 5/100), with a total crime rate of 2,195 per 100,000 versus 4,517 for Buffalo — 51% lower. Buffalo has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Dunkirk has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Buffalo is 22.2x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Buffalo — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Dunkirk — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Buffalo, NY
Dunkirk, NY
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Buffalo | Dunkirk | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,516.5 | 2,194.7 | +2,321.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 706.9 | 275.4 | +431.6 |
| Murder Rate | 12.4 | 0.0 | +12.4 |
| Rape Rate | 43.5 | 0.0 | +43.5 |
| Robbery Rate | 157.8 | 24.3 | +133.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 492.5 | 251.1 | +241.4 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,809.6 | 1,919.3 | +1,890.3 |
| Burglary Rate | 438.0 | 153.9 | +284.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,573.4 | 1,733.1 | +840.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 798.2 | 32.4 | +765.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buffalo or Dunkirk safer?
Dunkirk is safer with a total crime rate of 2,195 per 100K vs 4,517 for Buffalo — a 51% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Buffalo has a violent crime rate of 706.9 per 100K while Dunkirk has 275.4. Dunkirk has lower violent crime.
About Buffalo, NY
Buffalo, a city on Lake Erie, boasts a rich industrial past and stunning architecture by masters like Frank Lloyd Wright. As the second-largest city in New York, it experiences distinct seasons, including significant snowfall. With a safety score of 5/100 and a population coverage of 273,728, Buffalo has a total crime rate of 4,516.5 per 100,000 residents.
About Dunkirk, NY
Dunkirk, a port city on Lake Erie, is home to the historic Point Gratiot Lighthouse. Its diverse population includes a significant Hispanic community, reflecting its industrial past and present. With a safety score of 35/100 and a population coverage of 12,348, Dunkirk has a total crime rate of 2,194.7 per 100,000 residents.