Is Chicago or Murray Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Murray is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 55/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,528 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 62% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Murray has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 145.1x 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
Murray — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Murray, KY
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Murray | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,528.2 | +2,484.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 99.0 | +440.9 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 49.5 | +9.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 11.0 | +324.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 38.5 | +89.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 1,429.3 | +2,043.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 153.9 | +140.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 1,214.9 | +1,103.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 60.5 | +798.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Murray safer?
Murray is safer with a total crime rate of 1,528 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 62% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Murray has 99.0. Murray 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 Murray, KY
Murray, Kentucky, home to Murray State University, is a college town in Calloway County near the Tennessee border. The city's population is predominantly white, reflecting its rural Western Kentucky setting. With a safety score of 55/100 and a population coverage of 18,191, Murray has a total crime rate of 1,528.2 per 100,000 residents.