Is Dallas or San Diego Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, San Diego is safer than Dallas (Safety Score 38/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,082 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Dallas — 48% lower. Dallas has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where San Diego has a 81% lower rate.
Dallas — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
San Diego — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Dallas, TX
San Diego, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Dallas | San Diego | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.3 | 2,082.4 | +1,929.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 660.5 | 412.4 | +248.1 |
| Murder Rate | 13.6 | 2.5 | +11.1 |
| Rape Rate | 35.9 | 21.4 | +14.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 168.5 | 77.4 | +91.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 440.1 | 310.9 | +129.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,351.9 | 1,670.0 | +1,681.9 |
| Burglary Rate | 464.1 | 187.4 | +276.7 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,787.3 | 1,087.1 | +700.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 1,100.5 | 395.5 | +705.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dallas or San Diego safer?
San Diego is safer with a total crime rate of 2,082 per 100K vs 4,012 for Dallas — a 48% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Dallas has a violent crime rate of 660.5 per 100K while San Diego has 412.4. San Diego 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 San Diego, CA
San Diego, California, a major port city with a significant Hispanic population, sits on the Pacific Ocean just north of the Mexican border. Known for its mild climate and Balboa Park, it's also home to a large naval presence. With a safety score of 38/100 and a population coverage of 1,389,024, San Diego has a total crime rate of 2,082.4 per 100,000 residents.