Is Chicago or Rio Grande Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Rio Grande is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 43/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,926 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 52% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Rio Grande has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 172.2x 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
Rio Grande — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Rio Grande, TX
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Rio Grande | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,925.6 | +2,086.7 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 189.3 | +350.6 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 6.5 | +52.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 0.0 | +335.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 182.8 | -54.5 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 1,736.3 | +1,736.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 306.8 | -12.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 1,240.2 | +1,078.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 189.3 | +669.6 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Rio Grande safer?
Rio Grande is safer with a total crime rate of 1,926 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 52% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Rio Grande has 189.3. Rio Grande 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 Rio Grande, TX
Rio Grande City, Texas, a historic community founded in 1749, sits along the Rio Grande. This predominantly Hispanic city of over 15,000 residents is the county seat of Starr County. With a safety score of 43/100 and a population coverage of 15,320, Rio Grande has a total crime rate of 1,925.6 per 100,000 residents.