Is Gulf Shores or San Diego Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Gulf Shores is safer than San Diego (Safety Score 38/100 vs 38/100), with a total crime rate of 2,079 per 100,000 versus 2,082 for San Diego — 0% 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: San Diego is 79.8x 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
San Diego — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Gulf Shores, AL
San Diego, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Gulf Shores | San Diego | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,078.9 | 2,082.4 | -3.5 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 287.1 | 412.4 | -125.2 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 2.5 | -2.5 |
| Rape Rate | 28.7 | 21.4 | +7.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 11.5 | 77.4 | -65.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 246.9 | 310.9 | -64.0 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,791.8 | 1,670.0 | +121.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 114.9 | 187.4 | -72.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,625.2 | 1,087.1 | +538.1 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 51.7 | 395.5 | -343.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gulf Shores or San Diego safer?
Gulf Shores is safer with a total crime rate of 2,079 per 100K vs 2,082 for San Diego — a 0% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Gulf Shores has a violent crime rate of 287.1 per 100K while San Diego has 412.4. 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 San Diego, CA
San Diego, California, a major port city with a significant Hispanic population, sits on the Pacific Ocean just north of the Mexican border. Known for its mild climate and Balboa Park, it's also home to a large naval presence. With a safety score of 38/100 and a population coverage of 1,389,024, San Diego has a total crime rate of 2,082.4 per 100,000 residents.