Is Burlington or Springfield Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Burlington is safer than Springfield (Safety Score 44/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 1,888 per 100,000 versus 3,728 for Springfield — 49% lower. Burlington has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Burlington has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Springfield is 5.7x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Burlington — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Springfield — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Burlington, MA
Springfield, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Burlington | Springfield | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,887.6 | 3,728.2 | -1,840.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 224.9 | 892.7 | -667.8 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 10.9 | -10.9 |
| Rape Rate | 22.1 | 47.0 | -24.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 14.8 | 209.0 | -194.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 188.0 | 624.5 | -436.4 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,662.7 | 2,835.5 | -1,172.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 95.9 | 313.8 | -218.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,519.0 | 1,856.7 | -337.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 47.9 | 665.0 | -617.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Burlington or Springfield safer?
Burlington is safer with a total crime rate of 1,888 per 100K vs 3,728 for Springfield — a 49% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Burlington has a violent crime rate of 224.9 per 100K while Springfield has 892.7. Burlington has lower violent crime.
About Burlington, MA
Burlington, MA, a Middlesex County suburb, is known for its robust tech industry and the Burlington Mall. It was incorporated in 1799, separating from Woburn, and is home to a diverse, affluent population. With a safety score of 44/100 and a population coverage of 27,124, Burlington has a total crime rate of 1,887.6 per 100,000 residents.
About Springfield, MA
Springfield, Massachusetts, a city on the Connecticut River, is the "City of Firsts," notably home to the invention of basketball. Its diverse population of over 150,000 residents reflects a rich industrial past and a vibrant present as an economic hub. With a safety score of 11/100 and a population coverage of 155,491, Springfield has a total crime rate of 3,728.2 per 100,000 residents.