Is Detroit or Portage Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Portage is safer than Detroit (Safety Score 15/100 vs 2/100), with a total crime rate of 3,252 per 100,000 versus 6,087 for Detroit — 47% lower. Detroit has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Portage has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Detroit is 13.2x 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
Portage — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Detroit, MI
Portage, MI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Detroit | Portage | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 6,086.9 | 3,252.0 | +2,834.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,781.6 | 277.2 | +1,504.3 |
| Murder Rate | 31.2 | 0.0 | +31.2 |
| Rape Rate | 92.9 | 48.6 | +44.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 183.5 | 20.2 | +163.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 1,473.7 | 208.4 | +1,265.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 4,305.3 | 2,974.8 | +1,330.6 |
| Burglary Rate | 703.0 | 269.1 | +433.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,343.9 | 2,545.7 | -201.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 1,258.4 | 159.9 | +1,098.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Detroit or Portage safer?
Portage is safer with a total crime rate of 3,252 per 100K vs 6,087 for Detroit — a 47% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Detroit has a violent crime rate of 1,781.6 per 100K while Portage has 277.2. Portage 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 Portage, MI
Portage, Michigan, a Kalamazoo suburb, grew significantly after World War II. It's home to the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum, and its population is predominantly white, with a median age of around 40. With a safety score of 15/100 and a population coverage of 49,416, Portage has a total crime rate of 3,252.0 per 100,000 residents.