Is Chicago or Johnston Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Johnston is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 70/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,100 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 73% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Johnston has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 87.5x 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
Johnston — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Johnston, RI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Johnston | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,100.4 | +2,911.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 119.3 | +420.5 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 33.1 | +25.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 9.9 | +325.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 76.2 | +52.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 981.0 | +2,491.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 102.7 | +192.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 662.9 | +1,655.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 215.4 | +643.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Johnston safer?
Johnston is safer with a total crime rate of 1,100 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 73% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Johnston has 119.3. Johnston 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 Johnston, RI
Johnston, Rhode Island, is a town in Providence County, known for its strong Italian-American heritage. Situated along the Woonasquatucket River, it was incorporated in 1759. With a safety score of 70/100 and a population coverage of 30,172, Johnston has a total crime rate of 1,100.4 per 100,000 residents.