Is Gulf Shores or Mobile Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Gulf Shores is safer than Mobile (Safety Score 38/100 vs 30/100), with a total crime rate of 2,079 per 100,000 versus 2,426 for Mobile — 14% lower. Gulf Shores has lower rates in 5 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Gulf Shores has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Mobile is 13.6x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Gulf Shores — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Mobile — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Gulf Shores, AL
Mobile, AL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Gulf Shores | Mobile | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,078.9 | 2,426.5 | -347.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 287.1 | 752.0 | -464.9 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 16.5 | -16.5 |
| Rape Rate | 28.7 | 26.2 | +2.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 11.5 | 52.7 | -41.2 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 246.9 | 656.7 | -409.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,791.8 | 1,674.5 | +117.3 |
| Burglary Rate | 114.9 | 313.4 | -198.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,625.2 | 1,188.6 | +436.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 51.7 | 172.5 | -120.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gulf Shores or Mobile safer?
Gulf Shores is safer with a total crime rate of 2,079 per 100K vs 2,426 for Mobile — a 14% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Gulf Shores has a violent crime rate of 287.1 per 100K while Mobile has 752.0. Gulf Shores has lower violent crime.
About Gulf Shores, AL
Gulf Shores, Alabama, a popular spring break destination, sits on the Gulf of Mexico. Once a small fishing village, its year-round population is around 15,000, swelling significantly with tourists enjoying its white-sand beaches. With a safety score of 38/100 and a population coverage of 17,413, Gulf Shores has a total crime rate of 2,078.9 per 100,000 residents.
About Mobile, AL
Mobile, Alabama, a port city on Mobile Bay, boasts a rich Mardi Gras tradition predating New Orleans. Its population is predominantly African American, reflecting its deep Southern roots. With a safety score of 30/100 and a population coverage of 237,092, Mobile has a total crime rate of 2,426.5 per 100,000 residents.