Is Harrisonburg or Richmond Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Harrisonburg is safer than Richmond (Safety Score 41/100 vs 12/100), with a total crime rate of 1,960 per 100,000 versus 3,516 for Richmond — 44% lower. Harrisonburg has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Harrisonburg has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Richmond is 4.5x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Harrisonburg — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Richmond — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Harrisonburg, VA
Richmond, VA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Harrisonburg | Richmond | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,960.2 | 3,516.3 | -1,556.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 267.2 | 336.9 | -69.7 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 24.2 | -24.2 |
| Rape Rate | 56.6 | 18.6 | +38.0 |
| Robbery Rate | 21.5 | 94.5 | -73.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 189.2 | 199.7 | -10.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,693.0 | 3,179.4 | -1,486.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 134.6 | 265.3 | -130.7 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,472.6 | 2,386.9 | -914.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 85.8 | 527.2 | -441.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Harrisonburg or Richmond safer?
Harrisonburg is safer with a total crime rate of 1,960 per 100K vs 3,516 for Richmond — a 44% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Harrisonburg has a violent crime rate of 267.2 per 100K while Richmond has 336.9. Harrisonburg has lower violent crime.
About Harrisonburg, VA
Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is home to James Madison University and a vibrant downtown. It boasts a diverse population, with a significant Hispanic community contributing to its unique character. With a safety score of 41/100 and a population coverage of 51,270, Harrisonburg has a total crime rate of 1,960.2 per 100,000 residents.
About Richmond, VA
Richmond, Virginia, a city pivotal during the Civil War, sits along the fall line of the James River. It's a diverse city, home to a vibrant arts scene and a growing population of young professionals. With a safety score of 12/100 and a population coverage of 231,805, Richmond has a total crime rate of 3,516.3 per 100,000 residents.