Is Des Moines or San Antonio Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Des Moines is safer than San Antonio (Safety Score 10/100 vs 3/100), with a total crime rate of 3,831 per 100,000 versus 5,219 for San Antonio — 27% lower. Des Moines has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Des Moines has a 49% lower rate.
Note: San Antonio is 7.2x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Des Moines — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
San Antonio — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Des Moines, IA
San Antonio, TX
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Des Moines | San Antonio | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,831.4 | 5,219.0 | -1,387.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 704.9 | 595.3 | +109.6 |
| Murder Rate | 4.3 | 8.4 | -4.1 |
| Rape Rate | 51.1 | 83.7 | -32.5 |
| Robbery Rate | 75.0 | 108.4 | -33.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 572.5 | 393.7 | +178.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,126.5 | 4,623.6 | -1,497.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 462.6 | 495.6 | -32.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,142.0 | 3,291.8 | -1,149.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 521.9 | 836.3 | -314.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Des Moines or San Antonio safer?
Des Moines is safer with a total crime rate of 3,831 per 100K vs 5,219 for San Antonio — a 27% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Des Moines has a violent crime rate of 704.9 per 100K while San Antonio has 595.3. San Antonio has lower violent crime.
About Des Moines, IA
Des Moines, Iowa's capital, sits on the Des Moines River. It's known for its thriving insurance industry and has a growing population, with a median age in the mid-30s. With a safety score of 10/100 and a population coverage of 209,245, Des Moines has a total crime rate of 3,831.4 per 100,000 residents.
About San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, a South Texas city famed for the Alamo, sits along the Balcones Escarpment. Its population is predominantly Hispanic, reflecting a rich blend of cultures. With a safety score of 3/100 and a population coverage of 1,514,458, San Antonio has a total crime rate of 5,219.0 per 100,000 residents.