Is Dallas or Opelousas Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Dallas is safer than Opelousas (Safety Score 8/100 vs 1/100), with a total crime rate of 4,012 per 100,000 versus 6,401 for Opelousas — 37% lower. Dallas has lower rates in 5 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Dallas has a 65% lower rate.
Note: Dallas is 86.6x 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
Opelousas — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Dallas, TX
Opelousas, LA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Dallas | Opelousas | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.3 | 6,401.1 | -2,388.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 660.5 | 1,382.4 | -722.0 |
| Murder Rate | 13.6 | 39.3 | -25.7 |
| Rape Rate | 35.9 | 45.9 | -9.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 168.5 | 104.8 | +63.7 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 440.1 | 1,179.3 | -739.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,351.9 | 5,018.7 | -1,666.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 464.1 | 786.2 | -322.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,787.3 | 3,904.9 | -2,117.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 1,100.5 | 327.6 | +772.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dallas or Opelousas safer?
Dallas is safer with a total crime rate of 4,012 per 100K vs 6,401 for Opelousas — a 37% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Dallas has a violent crime rate of 660.5 per 100K while Opelousas has 1,382.4. Dallas 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 Opelousas, LA
Opelousas, Louisiana, the third-oldest city in the state, is a hub of Creole culture in St. Landry Parish. Situated in south-central Louisiana, it reflects a rich agricultural heritage. With a safety score of 1/100 and a population coverage of 15,263, Opelousas has a total crime rate of 6,401.1 per 100,000 residents.