Is Columbia or Memphis Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Columbia is safer than Memphis (Safety Score 19/100 vs 1/100), with a total crime rate of 3,060 per 100,000 versus 9,407 for Memphis — 67% lower. Columbia has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Columbia has a 91% lower rate.
Note: Memphis is 12.4x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Columbia — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Memphis — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Columbia, TN
Memphis, TN
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Columbia | Memphis | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,060.3 | 9,406.9 | -6,346.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 573.2 | 2,508.0 | -1,934.8 |
| Murder Rate | 12.2 | 40.6 | -28.5 |
| Rape Rate | 52.7 | 70.0 | -17.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 32.4 | 348.7 | -316.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 476.0 | 2,042.1 | -1,566.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,487.1 | 6,899.0 | -4,411.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 923.6 | 915.8 | +7.7 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,403.6 | 4,399.5 | -2,995.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 160.0 | 1,583.6 | -1,423.6 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbia or Memphis safer?
Columbia is safer with a total crime rate of 3,060 per 100K vs 9,407 for Memphis — a 67% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Columbia has a violent crime rate of 573.2 per 100K while Memphis has 2,508.0. Columbia has lower violent crime.
About Columbia, TN
Columbia, the "Dimple of the Universe," is a historic Southern city known for its Antebellum architecture and as the birthplace of James K. Polk. Situated on the Duck River in Maury County, it's a growing community of over 40,000 residents. With a safety score of 19/100 and a population coverage of 49,374, Columbia has a total crime rate of 3,060.3 per 100,000 residents.
About Memphis, TN
Memphis, a city on the Mississippi River, is the birthplace of the blues and a major hub for the music industry. Its population is predominantly African American, reflecting a rich cultural heritage and diverse community. With a safety score of 1/100 and a population coverage of 613,207, Memphis has a total crime rate of 9,406.9 per 100,000 residents.