Is Chicago or Independence Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Independence is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 65/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,238 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 69% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Independence has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 255.3x 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
Independence — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Independence, OR
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Independence | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,238.3 | +2,774.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 280.6 | +259.3 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 29.0 | +29.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 0.0 | +335.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 251.5 | -123.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 957.7 | +2,514.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 212.8 | +81.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 667.5 | +1,651.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 77.4 | +781.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Independence safer?
Independence is safer with a total crime rate of 1,238 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 69% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Independence has 280.6. Independence 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 Independence, OR
Independence, Oregon, founded as a jumping-off point for prospectors, sits on the Willamette River. This small city in Polk County has a population of around 10,000 residents. With a safety score of 65/100 and a population coverage of 10,337, Independence has a total crime rate of 1,238.3 per 100,000 residents.