Is Chicago or Dunkirk Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Dunkirk is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 35/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,195 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 45% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Dunkirk has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 213.7x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Chicago — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Dunkirk — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Dunkirk, NY
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Dunkirk | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 2,194.7 | +1,817.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 275.4 | +264.5 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 0.0 | +58.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 24.3 | +311.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 251.1 | -122.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 1,919.3 | +1,553.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 153.9 | +140.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 1,733.1 | +585.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 32.4 | +826.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Dunkirk safer?
Dunkirk is safer with a total crime rate of 2,195 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 45% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Dunkirk has 275.4. Dunkirk 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 Dunkirk, NY
Dunkirk, a port city on Lake Erie, is home to the historic Point Gratiot Lighthouse. Its diverse population includes a significant Hispanic community, reflecting its industrial past and present. With a safety score of 35/100 and a population coverage of 12,348, Dunkirk has a total crime rate of 2,194.7 per 100,000 residents.