Is Chicago or Melvindale Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Melvindale is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 57/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,467 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 63% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Melvindale has a 90% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 215.1x 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
Melvindale — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Melvindale, MI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Melvindale | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,467.4 | +2,544.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 301.6 | +238.2 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 16.3 | +1.2 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 32.6 | +26.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 32.6 | +302.7 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 220.1 | -91.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 1,165.7 | +2,306.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 203.8 | +91.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 709.2 | +1,609.5 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 252.7 | +606.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Melvindale safer?
Melvindale is safer with a total crime rate of 1,467 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 63% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Melvindale has 301.6. Melvindale 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 Melvindale, MI
Melvindale, a Downriver community, was once home to a large Ford stamping plant. Situated just southwest of Detroit, it's a small, densely populated city with a strong working-class heritage. With a safety score of 57/100 and a population coverage of 12,267, Melvindale has a total crime rate of 1,467.4 per 100,000 residents.