Is Cincinnati or Lancaster Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Lancaster is safer than Cincinnati (Safety Score 28/100 vs 5/100), with a total crime rate of 2,531 per 100,000 versus 4,678 for Cincinnati — 46% lower. Cincinnati has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Lancaster has a 93% lower rate.
Note: Cincinnati is 7.5x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Cincinnati — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Lancaster — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Cincinnati, OH
Lancaster, OH
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Cincinnati | Lancaster | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,677.8 | 2,530.8 | +2,147.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 848.5 | 405.4 | +443.1 |
| Murder Rate | 21.8 | 12.0 | +9.8 |
| Rape Rate | 57.1 | 86.4 | -29.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 231.7 | 16.8 | +214.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 535.0 | 290.3 | +244.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,829.3 | 2,125.4 | +1,703.9 |
| Burglary Rate | 548.5 | 194.3 | +354.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,395.1 | 1,808.7 | +586.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 885.8 | 122.3 | +763.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cincinnati or Lancaster safer?
Lancaster is safer with a total crime rate of 2,531 per 100K vs 4,678 for Cincinnati — a 46% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Cincinnati has a violent crime rate of 848.5 per 100K while Lancaster has 405.4. Lancaster has lower violent crime.
About Cincinnati, OH
Nestled along the Ohio River, Cincinnati is a city of historic architecture, including the iconic Music Hall. Its diverse population reflects a blend of Midwestern industriousness and Southern charm. With a safety score of 5/100 and a population coverage of 311,599, Cincinnati has a total crime rate of 4,677.8 per 100,000 residents.
About Lancaster, OH
Lancaster, Ohio, founded in 1800, is a city in Fairfield County known for being the birthplace of General William Tecumseh Sherman. Situated along the Hocking River, its population hovers around 40,000 residents. With a safety score of 28/100 and a population coverage of 41,687, Lancaster has a total crime rate of 2,530.8 per 100,000 residents.