Is Chicago or Walla Walla Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Walla Walla is safer than Chicago (Safety Score 28/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,498 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Chicago — 38% lower. Chicago has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Walla Walla has a 91% lower rate.
Note: Chicago is 79.8x 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
Walla Walla — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Chicago, IL
Walla Walla, WA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Chicago | Walla Walla | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.2 | 2,498.3 | +1,513.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 539.9 | 284.3 | +255.5 |
| Murder Rate | 17.5 | 6.1 | +11.4 |
| Rape Rate | 58.8 | 69.6 | -10.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 335.3 | 30.3 | +305.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 128.3 | 178.5 | -50.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,472.4 | 2,214.0 | +1,258.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 294.8 | 175.4 | +119.3 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,318.8 | 1,817.8 | +501.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 858.9 | 220.8 | +638.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Walla Walla safer?
Walla Walla is safer with a total crime rate of 2,498 per 100K vs 4,012 for Chicago — a 38% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Chicago has a violent crime rate of 539.9 per 100K while Walla Walla has 284.3. Walla Walla 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 Walla Walla, WA
Nestled in southeastern Washington, Walla Walla is a city of just over 30,000, known for its sweet onions. It also boasts a rich history as home to Whitman College, founded in 1882. With a safety score of 28/100 and a population coverage of 33,062, Walla Walla has a total crime rate of 2,498.3 per 100,000 residents.