Is Chesapeake or Harrisonburg Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Harrisonburg is safer than Chesapeake (Safety Score 41/100 vs 38/100), with a total crime rate of 1,960 per 100,000 versus 2,084 for Chesapeake — 6% lower. Chesapeake has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Harrisonburg has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chesapeake is 5.0x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Chesapeake — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Harrisonburg — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chesapeake, VA
Harrisonburg, VA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chesapeake | Harrisonburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,083.6 | 1,960.2 | +123.4 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 339.4 | 267.2 | +72.2 |
| Murder Rate | 4.7 | 0.0 | +4.7 |
| Rape Rate | 23.3 | 56.6 | -33.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 44.7 | 21.5 | +23.2 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 266.7 | 189.2 | +77.5 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,744.2 | 1,693.0 | +51.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 185.0 | 134.6 | +50.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,446.5 | 1,472.6 | -26.1 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 112.7 | 85.8 | +26.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chesapeake or Harrisonburg safer?
Harrisonburg is safer with a total crime rate of 1,960 per 100K vs 2,084 for Chesapeake — a 6% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chesapeake has a violent crime rate of 339.4 per 100K while Harrisonburg has 267.2. Harrisonburg has lower violent crime.
About Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake, a sprawling South Hampton Roads city, incorporates rural and suburban areas. Its numerous waterways, like the Great Dismal Swamp Canal, are integral to its geography. The city was formed in 1963 through a merger of Norfolk County and South Norfolk. With a safety score of 38/100 and a population coverage of 257,248, Chesapeake has a total crime rate of 2,083.6 per 100,000 residents.
About Harrisonburg, VA
Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is home to James Madison University and a vibrant downtown. It boasts a diverse population, with a significant Hispanic community contributing to its unique character. With a safety score of 41/100 and a population coverage of 51,270, Harrisonburg has a total crime rate of 1,960.2 per 100,000 residents.