Is Chicago or Denver Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of FBI data, Chicago is safer than Denver (Safety Score 8/100 vs 2/100), with a total crime rate of 4,012 per 100,000 versus 5,755 for Denver — 30% lower. Chicago has lower rates in 5 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Denver has a 47% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 3.7x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Quiz: which of these is SAFER than Chicago, IL?
Chicago — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Denver — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Denver, CO
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Denver | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 5,754.7 | -1,742.5 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 993.2 | -453.3 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 9.8 | +7.6 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 93.6 | -34.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 176.2 | +159.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 713.4 | -585.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 4,761.6 | -1,289.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 708.0 | -413.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 2,821.6 | -502.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 1,231.9 | -373.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Denver safer?
Chicago is safer with a total crime rate of 4,012 per 100K vs 5,755 for Denver — a 30% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Denver has 993.2. Chicago has lower violent crime.
About Chicago, IL
Chicago, Illinois, a major Midwest hub and birthplace of the skyscraper, sits on Lake Michigan's shores. Its diverse population of over 2.7 million people contributes to its vibrant arts and culture scene. With a safety score of 8/100 and a population coverage of 2,638,698, Chicago has a total crime rate of 4,012.2 per 100,000 residents.
About Denver, CO
Denver, the "Mile High City," sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains, a hub of Western expansion since its 1858 founding during the Gold Rush. This rapidly growing city is home to a diverse population of over 700,000 residents. With a safety score of 2/100 and a population coverage of 722,031, Denver has a total crime rate of 5,754.7 per 100,000 residents.