Is Chicago or Norfolk Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Norfolk is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 94/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 431 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 89% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Norfolk has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 223.2x 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
Norfolk — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Norfolk, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Norfolk | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 431.3 | +3,580.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 50.7 | +489.1 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 0.0 | +58.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 0.0 | +335.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 50.7 | +77.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 380.6 | +3,091.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 152.2 | +142.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 194.5 | +2,124.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 33.8 | +825.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Norfolk safer?
Norfolk is safer with a total crime rate of 431 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 89% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Norfolk has 50.7. Norfolk 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 Norfolk, MA
Norfolk, Massachusetts, a small town in southeastern Massachusetts, is primarily residential with a median age of around 40. It was once home to the Norfolk County Agricultural School, reflecting its rural past. With a safety score of 94/100 and a population coverage of 11,824, Norfolk has a total crime rate of 431.3 per 100,000 residents.