Is Chicago or Southbridge Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Southbridge is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 74/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,001 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 75% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Southbridge has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 144.3x 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
Southbridge — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Southbridge, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Southbridge | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 1,001.1 | +3,011.2 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 366.5 | +173.3 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 0.0 | +17.5 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 65.7 | -6.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 16.4 | +318.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 284.5 | -156.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 634.6 | +2,837.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 93.0 | +201.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 432.2 | +1,886.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 109.4 | +749.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Southbridge safer?
Southbridge is safer with a total crime rate of 1,001 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 75% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Southbridge has 366.5. Southbridge 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 Southbridge, MA
Southbridge, once a thriving mill town known for its American Optical Company, sits on the Quinebaug River in southern Worcester County. Its diverse population now navigates a landscape of historic brick buildings and new developments. With a safety score of 74/100 and a population coverage of 18,280, Southbridge has a total crime rate of 1,001.1 per 100,000 residents.