Is Dallas or Lancaster Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Lancaster is safer than Dallas (Safety Score 28/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,531 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Dallas — 37% lower. Dallas has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Lancaster has a 90% lower rate.
Note: Dallas is 31.7x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Dallas — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Lancaster — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Dallas, TX
Lancaster, OH
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Dallas | Lancaster | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.3 | 2,530.8 | +1,481.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 660.5 | 405.4 | +255.1 |
| Murder Rate | 13.6 | 12.0 | +1.6 |
| Rape Rate | 35.9 | 86.4 | -50.4 |
| Robbery Rate | 168.5 | 16.8 | +151.7 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 440.1 | 290.3 | +149.9 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,351.9 | 2,125.4 | +1,226.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 464.1 | 194.3 | +269.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,787.3 | 1,808.7 | -21.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 1,100.5 | 122.3 | +978.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dallas or Lancaster safer?
Lancaster is safer with a total crime rate of 2,531 per 100K vs 4,012 for Dallas — a 37% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Dallas has a violent crime rate of 660.5 per 100K while Lancaster has 405.4. Lancaster has lower violent crime.
About Dallas, TX
Dallas, a major hub in North Texas, is known for its historic role in the oil industry and its sprawling urban landscape. The city boasts a diverse population exceeding 1.3 million within its city limits. With a safety score of 8/100 and a population coverage of 1,321,500, Dallas has a total crime rate of 4,012.3 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.