Is Cambridge or Gaithersburg Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Gaithersburg is safer than Cambridge (Safety Score 54/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 1,565 per 100,000 versus 3,733 for Cambridge — 58% lower. Cambridge has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Cambridge has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Gaithersburg is 5.3x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Cambridge — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Gaithersburg — 2-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Cambridge, MD
Gaithersburg, MD
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Cambridge | Gaithersburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,733.4 | 1,564.9 | +2,168.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 545.3 | 252.9 | +292.3 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 1.4 | -1.4 |
| Rape Rate | 90.9 | 28.7 | +62.1 |
| Robbery Rate | 181.8 | 64.7 | +117.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 272.6 | 158.1 | +114.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,188.2 | 1,312.0 | +1,876.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 507.4 | 150.9 | +356.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,385.5 | 1,023.1 | +1,362.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 295.3 | 138.0 | +157.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cambridge or Gaithersburg safer?
Gaithersburg is safer with a total crime rate of 1,565 per 100K vs 3,733 for Cambridge — a 58% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Cambridge has a violent crime rate of 545.3 per 100K while Gaithersburg has 252.9. Gaithersburg has lower violent crime.
About Cambridge, MD
Cambridge, the county seat of Dorchester County, is a historic port town on the Choptank River. This Eastern Shore community, home to about 13,000 residents, was a major shipbuilding center. With a safety score of 11/100 and a population coverage of 13,205, Cambridge has a total crime rate of 3,733.4 per 100,000 residents.
About Gaithersburg, MD
Gaithersburg, a diverse city in Montgomery County, boasts a rich agricultural past, evidenced by its annual county fair. Situated along the I-270 technology corridor, it's a bustling hub with a significant immigrant population. With a safety score of 54/100 and a population coverage of 69,590, Gaithersburg has a total crime rate of 1,564.9 per 100,000 residents.