Is Elgin or Medford Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Elgin is safer than Medford (Safety Score 61/100 vs 61/100), with a total crime rate of 1,369 per 100,000 versus 1,379 for Medford — 1% lower. Elgin has higher rates in 3 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Medford has a 100% lower rate.
Elgin — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Medford — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Elgin, IL
Medford, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Elgin | Medford | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,368.7 | 1,379.2 | -10.5 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 266.7 | 179.5 | +87.1 |
| Murder Rate | 4.4 | 0.0 | +4.4 |
| Rape Rate | 64.7 | 21.8 | +42.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 31.0 | 23.5 | +7.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 166.6 | 134.2 | +32.3 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,102.1 | 1,199.6 | -97.6 |
| Burglary Rate | 211.7 | 77.2 | +134.6 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 804.4 | 1,006.7 | -202.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 85.9 | 115.8 | -29.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Elgin or Medford safer?
Elgin is safer with a total crime rate of 1,369 per 100K vs 1,379 for Medford — a 1% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Elgin has a violent crime rate of 266.7 per 100K while Medford has 179.5. Medford has lower violent crime.
About Elgin, IL
Elgin, Illinois, once known as "Watch City" due to the Elgin National Watch Company, is a Fox River community. Located in Kane and Cook counties, it's home to a diverse population of over 114,000 residents. With a safety score of 61/100 and a population coverage of 112,879, Elgin has a total crime rate of 1,368.7 per 100,000 residents.
About Medford, MA
Medford, home to Tufts University, is a historic city just north of Boston. Situated along the Mystic River, it's a densely populated community with a rich past, including its shipbuilding heritage. With a safety score of 61/100 and a population coverage of 59,601, Medford has a total crime rate of 1,379.2 per 100,000 residents.