Is Ferndale or Grand Rapids Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Ferndale is safer than Grand Rapids (Safety Score 48/100 vs 14/100), with a total crime rate of 1,733 per 100,000 versus 3,391 for Grand Rapids — 49% lower. Ferndale has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Ferndale has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Grand Rapids is 10.3x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Ferndale — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Grand Rapids — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Ferndale, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Ferndale | Grand Rapids | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,733.1 | 3,390.8 | -1,657.7 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 204.8 | 910.1 | -705.3 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 6.1 | -6.1 |
| Rape Rate | 26.3 | 89.8 | -63.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 26.3 | 116.4 | -90.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 152.3 | 697.8 | -545.5 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,528.3 | 2,480.7 | -952.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 168.1 | 267.5 | -99.4 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,008.4 | 1,828.9 | -820.5 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 351.9 | 384.4 | -32.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ferndale or Grand Rapids safer?
Ferndale is safer with a total crime rate of 1,733 per 100K vs 3,391 for Grand Rapids — a 49% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Ferndale has a violent crime rate of 204.8 per 100K while Grand Rapids has 910.1. Ferndale has lower violent crime.
About Ferndale, MI
Ferndale, Michigan, a compact urban community in Oakland County, is known for its vibrant downtown and historic early 20th-century housing stock. Positioned just north of Detroit, it attracts a diverse, progressive population. With a safety score of 48/100 and a population coverage of 19,041, Ferndale has a total crime rate of 1,733.1 per 100,000 residents.
About Grand Rapids, MI
Grand Rapids, Michigan, a city on the Grand River, is known as "Furniture City" due to its rich manufacturing history. It's the second-largest city in Michigan, with a diverse population. With a safety score of 14/100 and a population coverage of 195,913, Grand Rapids has a total crime rate of 3,390.8 per 100,000 residents.