Is Dallas or West Des Moines Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, West Des Moines is safer than Dallas (Safety Score 44/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,879 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Dallas — 53% lower. Dallas has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where West Des Moines has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Dallas is 18.0x 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
West Des Moines — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Dallas, TX
West Des Moines, IA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Dallas | West Des Moines | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.3 | 1,879.1 | +2,133.3 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 660.5 | 165.0 | +495.5 |
| Murder Rate | 13.6 | 0.0 | +13.6 |
| Rape Rate | 35.9 | 21.8 | +14.1 |
| Robbery Rate | 168.5 | 12.3 | +156.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 440.1 | 130.9 | +309.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,351.9 | 1,714.1 | +1,637.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 464.1 | 114.5 | +349.6 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,787.3 | 1,471.4 | +315.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 1,100.5 | 128.2 | +972.3 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dallas or West Des Moines safer?
West Des Moines is safer with a total crime rate of 1,879 per 100K vs 4,012 for Dallas — a 53% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Dallas has a violent crime rate of 660.5 per 100K while West Des Moines has 165.0. West Des Moines 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 West Des Moines, IA
West Des Moines is a vibrant suburb of Iowa's capital, known for its strong financial sector and Jordan Creek Town Center. This affluent community, once a railway stop, lies just west of Des Moines, primarily in Polk County. With a safety score of 44/100 and a population coverage of 73,334, West Des Moines has a total crime rate of 1,879.1 per 100,000 residents.