Is Chicago or Port Townsend Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Port Townsend is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 44/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,884 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 53% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Port Townsend has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 248.6x 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
Port Townsend — 3-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Port Townsend, WA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Port Townsend | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,884.3 | +2,127.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 471.1 | +68.8 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 37.7 | +21.1 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 28.3 | +307.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 405.1 | -276.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 1,413.2 | +2,059.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 169.6 | +125.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 1,177.7 | +1,141.1 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 66.0 | +792.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Port Townsend safer?
Port Townsend is safer with a total crime rate of 1,884 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 53% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Port Townsend has 471.1. Port Townsend 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 Port Townsend, WA
Port Townsend, a Victorian seaport on the Olympic Peninsula, is home to many artists and retirees. Its historic downtown, a National Historic Landmark, features well-preserved 19th-century architecture. With a safety score of 44/100 and a population coverage of 10,614, Port Townsend has a total crime rate of 1,884.3 per 100,000 residents.