Is Chicago or Irmo Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Irmo is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 46/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,807 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 55% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Irmo has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 216.7x 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
Irmo — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Irmo, SC
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Irmo | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,806.5 | +2,205.7 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 238.1 | +301.7 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 24.6 | +34.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 32.9 | +302.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 180.7 | -52.3 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 1,568.4 | +1,904.0 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 106.8 | +188.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 1,338.5 | +980.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 123.2 | +735.7 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Irmo safer?
Irmo is safer with a total crime rate of 1,807 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 55% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Irmo has 238.1. Irmo 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 Irmo, SC
Irmo, South Carolina, a suburb of Columbia, is known for its annual Okra Strut festival. Situated in the Midlands, it spans parts of Lexington and Richland counties, with a growing population. With a safety score of 46/100 and a population coverage of 12,178, Irmo has a total crime rate of 1,806.5 per 100,000 residents.