Is Dallas or West Plains Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, West Plains is safer than Dallas (Safety Score 36/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,167 per 100,000 versus 4,012 for Dallas — 46% lower. Dallas has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where West Plains has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Dallas is 103.8x 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 Plains — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Dallas, TX
West Plains, MO
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Dallas | West Plains | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,012.3 | 2,167.4 | +1,844.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 660.5 | 361.2 | +299.2 |
| Murder Rate | 13.6 | 0.0 | +13.6 |
| Rape Rate | 35.9 | 86.4 | -50.4 |
| Robbery Rate | 168.5 | 23.6 | +145.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 440.1 | 251.3 | +188.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,351.9 | 1,806.2 | +1,545.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 464.1 | 180.6 | +283.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,787.3 | 1,476.4 | +310.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 1,100.5 | 149.2 | +951.3 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dallas or West Plains safer?
West Plains is safer with a total crime rate of 2,167 per 100K vs 4,012 for Dallas — a 46% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Dallas has a violent crime rate of 660.5 per 100K while West Plains has 361.2. West Plains 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 Plains, MO
West Plains, Missouri, the "Gateway to the Ozarks," is a south-central Missouri town known for its historic Houck's Mill. This Howell County seat serves as a regional hub for commerce and healthcare. With a safety score of 36/100 and a population coverage of 12,734, West Plains has a total crime rate of 2,167.4 per 100,000 residents.