Is Dallas or Santa Barbara Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Santa Barbara is safer than Dallas (Safety Score 29/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,459 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Dallas — 39% lower. Dallas has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Santa Barbara has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Dallas is 15.4x 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
Santa Barbara — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Dallas, TX
Santa Barbara, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Dallas | Santa Barbara | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.3 | 2,459.3 | +1,553.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 660.5 | 649.5 | +11.0 |
| Murder Rate | 13.6 | 0.0 | +13.6 |
| Rape Rate | 35.9 | 82.8 | -46.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 168.5 | 74.6 | +93.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 440.1 | 490.9 | -50.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,351.9 | 1,809.7 | +1,542.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 464.1 | 170.3 | +293.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,787.3 | 1,441.3 | +346.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 1,100.5 | 198.2 | +902.3 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dallas or Santa Barbara safer?
Santa Barbara is safer with a total crime rate of 2,459 per 100K vs 4,012 for Dallas — a 39% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Dallas has a violent crime rate of 660.5 per 100K while Santa Barbara has 649.5. Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara, CA
Nestled between the Pacific and the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara boasts Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and a Mediterranean climate. This affluent coastal city, home to UCSB, attracts tourists and residents alike with its scenic beauty. With a safety score of 29/100 and a population coverage of 85,758, Santa Barbara has a total crime rate of 2,459.3 per 100,000 residents.