Is Chesapeake or Leesburg Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Leesburg is safer than Chesapeake (Safety Score 46/100 vs 38/100), with a total crime rate of 1,830 per 100,000 versus 2,084 for Chesapeake — 12% lower. Chesapeake has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Leesburg has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chesapeake is 5.2x 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
Leesburg — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chesapeake, VA
Leesburg, VA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chesapeake | Leesburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,083.6 | 1,829.7 | +253.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 339.4 | 255.9 | +83.5 |
| Murder Rate | 4.7 | 0.0 | +4.7 |
| Rape Rate | 23.3 | 32.2 | -8.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 44.7 | 34.3 | +10.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 266.7 | 189.4 | +77.3 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,744.2 | 1,573.8 | +170.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 185.0 | 76.6 | +108.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,446.5 | 1,440.8 | +5.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 112.7 | 56.4 | +56.3 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chesapeake or Leesburg safer?
Leesburg is safer with a total crime rate of 1,830 per 100K vs 2,084 for Chesapeake — a 12% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chesapeake has a violent crime rate of 339.4 per 100K while Leesburg has 255.9. Leesburg 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 Leesburg, VA
Leesburg, Virginia, the county seat of Loudoun County, boasts a rich history dating to 1758 and served as a strategic location during the Civil War. Situated at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it has experienced significant population growth in recent decades, drawing residents to its blend of historic charm and suburban amenities. With a safety score of 46/100 and a population coverage of 49,626, Leesburg has a total crime rate of 1,829.7 per 100,000 residents.