Is Burlington or Essex Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Essex is safer than Burlington (Safety Score 45/100 vs 4/100), with a total crime rate of 1,844 per 100,000 versus 4,769 for Burlington — 61% lower. Burlington has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Essex has a 100% lower rate.
Burlington — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Essex — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Burlington, VT
Essex, VT
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Burlington | Essex | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,768.8 | 1,843.7 | +2,925.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 479.1 | 111.9 | +367.3 |
| Murder Rate | 2.3 | 0.0 | +2.3 |
| Rape Rate | 20.2 | 9.0 | +11.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 54.0 | 9.0 | +45.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 402.7 | 94.0 | +308.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 4,289.6 | 1,731.8 | +2,557.9 |
| Burglary Rate | 384.7 | 94.0 | +290.7 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 3,716.0 | 1,508.0 | +2,208.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 189.0 | 129.8 | +59.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Burlington or Essex safer?
Essex is safer with a total crime rate of 1,844 per 100K vs 4,769 for Burlington — a 61% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Burlington has a violent crime rate of 479.1 per 100K while Essex has 111.9. Essex has lower violent crime.
About Burlington, VT
Burlington, Vermont, a city on Lake Champlain, is home to the Ben & Jerry's original ice cream shop. Its population is approximately 45,000, with a significant student presence. With a safety score of 4/100 and a population coverage of 44,456, Burlington has a total crime rate of 4,768.8 per 100,000 residents.
About Essex, VT
Essex, Vermont, a town with a strong agricultural heritage, lies just east of Burlington. Its population of over 22,000 residents enjoys a mix of suburban amenities and rural charm, with many employed in the greater Chittenden County area. With a safety score of 45/100 and a population coverage of 22,347, Essex has a total crime rate of 1,843.7 per 100,000 residents.