Is Detroit or Sterling Heights Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Sterling Heights is safer than Detroit (Safety Score 64/100 vs 2/100), with a total crime rate of 1,273 per 100,000 versus 6,087 for Detroit — 79% lower. Detroit has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Sterling Heights has a 98% lower rate.
Note: Detroit is 4.9x 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
Sterling Heights — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Detroit, MI
Sterling Heights, MI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Detroit | Sterling Heights | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 6,086.9 | 1,273.1 | +4,813.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,781.6 | 230.7 | +1,550.8 |
| Murder Rate | 31.2 | 0.8 | +30.4 |
| Rape Rate | 92.9 | 30.8 | +62.1 |
| Robbery Rate | 183.5 | 15.0 | +168.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 1,473.7 | 182.6 | +1,291.0 |
| Property Crime Rate | 4,305.3 | 1,042.4 | +3,262.9 |
| Burglary Rate | 703.0 | 76.7 | +626.4 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,343.9 | 789.1 | +1,554.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 1,258.4 | 176.6 | +1,081.7 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Detroit or Sterling Heights safer?
Sterling Heights is safer with a total crime rate of 1,273 per 100K vs 6,087 for Detroit — a 79% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Detroit has a violent crime rate of 1,781.6 per 100K while Sterling Heights has 230.7. Sterling Heights 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 Sterling Heights, MI
Sterling Heights, Michigan, a Detroit suburb, is the second-largest city in Macomb County. Once a farming community known for its rhubarb, it now boasts a diverse population exceeding 130,000 residents. With a safety score of 64/100 and a population coverage of 133,058, Sterling Heights has a total crime rate of 1,273.1 per 100,000 residents.