Is Detroit or Southgate Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Southgate is safer than Detroit (Safety Score 29/100 vs 2/100), with a total crime rate of 2,467 per 100,000 versus 6,087 for Detroit — 59% lower. Detroit has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Southgate has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Detroit is 22.7x 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
Southgate — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Detroit, MI
Southgate, MI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Detroit | Southgate | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 6,086.9 | 2,466.7 | +3,620.2 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,781.6 | 449.5 | +1,332.1 |
| Murder Rate | 31.2 | 0.0 | +31.2 |
| Rape Rate | 92.9 | 31.4 | +61.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 183.5 | 31.4 | +152.2 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 1,473.7 | 383.3 | +1,090.4 |
| Property Crime Rate | 4,305.3 | 2,017.3 | +2,288.0 |
| Burglary Rate | 703.0 | 181.2 | +521.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,343.9 | 1,543.5 | +800.5 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 1,258.4 | 292.7 | +965.7 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Detroit or Southgate safer?
Southgate is safer with a total crime rate of 2,467 per 100K vs 6,087 for Detroit — a 59% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Detroit has a violent crime rate of 1,781.6 per 100K while Southgate has 449.5. Southgate 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 Southgate, MI
Southgate, Michigan, a Downriver community, was incorporated from parts of Ecorse and Taylor townships. It is home to a significant portion of Wayne County's population, with a diverse mix of residential and commercial areas. With a safety score of 29/100 and a population coverage of 28,702, Southgate has a total crime rate of 2,466.7 per 100,000 residents.