Is Detroit or Norton Shores Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Norton Shores is safer than Detroit (Safety Score 38/100 vs 2/100), with a total crime rate of 2,076 per 100,000 versus 6,087 for Detroit — 66% lower. Detroit has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Norton Shores has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Detroit is 26.0x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Detroit — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Norton Shores — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Detroit, MI
Norton Shores, MI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Detroit | Norton Shores | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 6,086.9 | 2,075.9 | +4,011.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,781.6 | 192.0 | +1,589.6 |
| Murder Rate | 31.2 | 0.0 | +31.2 |
| Rape Rate | 92.9 | 40.0 | +52.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 183.5 | 4.0 | +179.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 1,473.7 | 148.0 | +1,325.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 4,305.3 | 1,883.9 | +2,421.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 703.0 | 172.0 | +531.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,343.9 | 1,507.9 | +836.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 1,258.4 | 204.0 | +1,054.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Detroit or Norton Shores safer?
Norton Shores is safer with a total crime rate of 2,076 per 100K vs 6,087 for Detroit — a 66% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Detroit has a violent crime rate of 1,781.6 per 100K while Norton Shores has 192.0. Norton Shores has lower violent crime.
About Detroit, MI
Detroit, once the "Motor City" and heart of the American auto industry, sits on the Detroit River, bordering Canada. This major Midwest city has a diverse population, with a significant African American heritage shaping its vibrant culture. With a safety score of 2/100 and a population coverage of 651,171, Detroit has a total crime rate of 6,086.9 per 100,000 residents.
About Norton Shores, MI
Norton Shores, Michigan, a community named for early settler John Norton, extends along Lake Michigan's eastern shore near Muskegon. Its landscape is shaped by the lake and numerous inland waterways, attracting residents and visitors to its natural beauty. With a safety score of 38/100 and a population coverage of 25,001, Norton Shores has a total crime rate of 2,075.9 per 100,000 residents.