Is Chicago or Pleasant Hill Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Pleasant Hill is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 83/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 766 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 81% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Pleasant Hill has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 217.4x 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
Pleasant Hill — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Pleasant Hill, IA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Pleasant Hill | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 766.3 | +3,246.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 173.0 | +366.8 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 33.0 | +25.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 16.5 | +318.8 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 123.6 | +4.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 593.2 | +2,879.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 16.5 | +278.3 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 395.5 | +1,923.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 181.3 | +677.6 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Pleasant Hill safer?
Pleasant Hill is safer with a total crime rate of 766 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 81% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Pleasant Hill has 173.0. Pleasant Hill 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 Pleasant Hill, IA
Pleasant Hill, a Des Moines suburb, was once known for its coal mines. This Polk County city, with a population around 10,000, offers residents a blend of suburban living and natural areas. With a safety score of 83/100 and a population coverage of 12,137, Pleasant Hill has a total crime rate of 766.3 per 100,000 residents.