Is Lancaster or Pittsburgh Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Lancaster is safer than Pittsburgh (Safety Score 43/100 vs 24/100), with a total crime rate of 1,914 per 100,000 versus 2,709 for Pittsburgh — 29% lower. Lancaster has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Lancaster has a 77% lower rate.
Note: Pittsburgh is 5.6x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Lancaster — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Pittsburgh — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Lancaster, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Lancaster | Pittsburgh | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,914.2 | 2,708.6 | -794.4 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 462.3 | 428.5 | +33.8 |
| Murder Rate | 3.5 | 11.4 | -7.8 |
| Rape Rate | 31.6 | 51.7 | -20.1 |
| Robbery Rate | 28.1 | 124.2 | -96.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 397.3 | 239.9 | +157.3 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,451.9 | 2,280.1 | -828.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 107.2 | 232.7 | -125.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,181.2 | 1,704.4 | -523.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 163.5 | 343.0 | -179.6 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lancaster or Pittsburgh safer?
Lancaster is safer with a total crime rate of 1,914 per 100K vs 2,709 for Pittsburgh — a 29% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Lancaster has a violent crime rate of 462.3 per 100K while Pittsburgh has 428.5. Pittsburgh has lower violent crime.
About Lancaster, PA
Lancaster, PA, known as the Red Rose City, is a historic city in south-central Pennsylvania. Its diverse population of nearly 60,000 residents includes a significant Amish presence, contributing to its unique cultural landscape. With a safety score of 43/100 and a population coverage of 56,890, Lancaster has a total crime rate of 1,914.2 per 100,000 residents.
About Pittsburgh, PA
Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains where three rivers meet, Pittsburgh is a city of bridges and former steel mills. Its rich industrial past shaped its distinct neighborhoods and resilient, diverse population. With a safety score of 24/100 and a population coverage of 317,177, Pittsburgh has a total crime rate of 2,708.6 per 100,000 residents.