Is Colonial Heights or Philadelphia Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Colonial Heights is safer than Philadelphia (Safety Score 11/100 vs 3/100), with a total crime rate of 3,644 per 100,000 versus 5,458 for Philadelphia — 33% lower. Colonial Heights has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Colonial Heights has a 80% lower rate.
Note: Philadelphia is 83.3x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Colonial Heights — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Philadelphia — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Colonial Heights, VA
Philadelphia, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Colonial Heights | Philadelphia | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,644.2 | 5,458.5 | -1,814.3 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 462.2 | 910.3 | -448.1 |
| Murder Rate | 10.8 | 16.9 | -6.2 |
| Rape Rate | 26.9 | 46.1 | -19.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 53.8 | 273.2 | -219.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 370.9 | 572.5 | -201.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,181.9 | 4,548.2 | -1,366.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 161.3 | 319.0 | -157.7 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,913.2 | 3,223.6 | -310.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 107.5 | 1,005.6 | -898.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Colonial Heights or Philadelphia safer?
Colonial Heights is safer with a total crime rate of 3,644 per 100K vs 5,458 for Philadelphia — a 33% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Colonial Heights has a violent crime rate of 462.2 per 100K while Philadelphia has 910.3. Colonial Heights has lower violent crime.
About Colonial Heights, VA
Colonial Heights, an independent city in Virginia, is nestled along the Appomattox River, just south of Petersburg. Historically significant for its role in the Bermuda Hundred Campaign during the Civil War, it remains a smaller community, covering only about 7.5 square miles. With a safety score of 11/100 and a population coverage of 18,605, Colonial Heights has a total crime rate of 3,644.2 per 100,000 residents.
About Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence, is Pennsylvania's largest city. Situated along the Delaware River, its diverse population contributes to a rich urban tapestry. With a safety score of 3/100 and a population coverage of 1,549,259, Philadelphia has a total crime rate of 5,458.5 per 100,000 residents.