Is Chicago or Somerville Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Somerville is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 43/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,920 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 52% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Somerville has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 32.3x 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
Somerville — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Somerville, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Somerville | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,920.1 | +2,092.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 221.4 | +318.5 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 15.9 | +42.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 24.5 | +310.8 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 181.0 | -52.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 1,698.8 | +1,773.6 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 289.9 | +4.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 1,279.3 | +1,039.5 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 129.6 | +729.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Somerville safer?
Somerville is safer with a total crime rate of 1,920 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 Somerville has 221.4. Somerville 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 Somerville, MA
Somerville, MA, a densely populated city immediately north of Boston, is known for its vibrant arts scene and diverse neighborhoods. Historically home to many working-class immigrants, it's now a hub for young professionals and students. With a safety score of 43/100 and a population coverage of 81,766, Somerville has a total crime rate of 1,920.1 per 100,000 residents.