Is Chicago or Ferndale Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Ferndale is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 48/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,733 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 57% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Ferndale has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 138.6x 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
Ferndale — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Ferndale, MI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Ferndale | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,733.1 | +2,279.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 204.8 | +335.0 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 26.3 | +32.5 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 26.3 | +309.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 152.3 | -24.0 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 1,528.3 | +1,944.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 168.1 | +126.7 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 1,008.4 | +1,310.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 351.9 | +507.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Ferndale safer?
Ferndale is safer with a total crime rate of 1,733 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 57% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Ferndale has 204.8. Ferndale 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 Ferndale, MI
Ferndale, Michigan, a compact urban community in Oakland County, is known for its vibrant downtown and historic early 20th-century housing stock. Positioned just north of Detroit, it attracts a diverse, progressive population. With a safety score of 48/100 and a population coverage of 19,041, Ferndale has a total crime rate of 1,733.1 per 100,000 residents.