Is Lakewood or Medford Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Lakewood is safer than Medford (Safety Score 7/100 vs 6/100), with a total crime rate of 4,270 per 100,000 versus 4,324 for Medford — 1% lower. Lakewood has higher rates in 2 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Medford has a 45% lower rate.
Lakewood — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Medford — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Lakewood, WA
Medford, OR
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Lakewood | Medford | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,270.0 | 4,323.7 | -53.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 648.1 | 491.9 | +156.2 |
| Murder Rate | 6.5 | 3.5 | +2.9 |
| Rape Rate | 61.4 | 63.7 | -2.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 130.9 | 89.7 | +41.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 449.3 | 335.0 | +114.3 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,621.9 | 3,831.7 | -209.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 510.7 | 290.2 | +220.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,484.1 | 3,338.6 | -854.5 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 627.1 | 202.9 | +424.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lakewood or Medford safer?
Lakewood is safer with a total crime rate of 4,270 per 100K vs 4,324 for Medford — a 1% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Lakewood has a violent crime rate of 648.1 per 100K while Medford has 491.9. Medford has lower violent crime.
About Lakewood, WA
Lakewood, WA, a city incorporated in 1996, sits between Tacoma and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Its diverse population, with a significant military presence, resides among lakes and historic estates like Thornewood Castle. With a safety score of 7/100 and a population coverage of 61,873, Lakewood has a total crime rate of 4,270.0 per 100,000 residents.
About Medford, OR
Medford, in Southern Oregon's Rogue Valley, is a regional hub known for its pear orchards and proximity to Crater Lake. The city's population is around 85,000, with a significant retiree community. With a safety score of 6/100 and a population coverage of 84,766, Medford has a total crime rate of 4,323.7 per 100,000 residents.