Is Burton or Detroit Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Burton is safer than Detroit (Safety Score 18/100 vs 2/100), with a total crime rate of 3,098 per 100,000 versus 6,087 for Detroit — 49% lower. Burton has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Burton has a 78% lower rate.
Note: Detroit 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.
Burton — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Detroit — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Burton, MI
Detroit, MI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Burton | Detroit | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,097.7 | 6,086.9 | -2,989.2 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 765.0 | 1,781.6 | -1,016.5 |
| Murder Rate | 6.8 | 31.2 | -24.3 |
| Rape Rate | 75.1 | 92.9 | -17.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 58.1 | 183.5 | -125.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 625.0 | 1,473.7 | -848.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,332.7 | 4,305.3 | -1,972.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 331.3 | 703.0 | -371.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,735.0 | 2,343.9 | -609.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 266.4 | 1,258.4 | -992.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Burton or Detroit safer?
Burton is safer with a total crime rate of 3,098 per 100K vs 6,087 for Detroit — a 49% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Burton has a violent crime rate of 765.0 per 100K while Detroit has 1,781.6. Burton has lower violent crime.
About Burton, MI
Burton, Michigan, a Genesee County suburb, was once part of neighboring Flint. This working-class community, home to roughly 29,000 residents, retains a strong tie to its automotive industry past. With a safety score of 18/100 and a population coverage of 29,280, Burton has a total crime rate of 3,097.7 per 100,000 residents.
About Detroit, MI
Detroit, once the "Motor City" and heart of the American auto industry, sits on the Detroit River, bordering Canada. This major Midwest city has a diverse population, with a significant African American heritage shaping its vibrant culture. With a safety score of 2/100 and a population coverage of 651,171, Detroit has a total crime rate of 6,086.9 per 100,000 residents.