Is Las Cruces or Las Vegas Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Las Vegas is safer than Las Cruces (Safety Score 37/100 vs 3/100), with a total crime rate of 2,122 per 100,000 versus 5,594 for Las Cruces — 62% lower. Las Cruces has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in property crime, where Las Vegas has a 70% lower rate.
Note: Las Cruces is 9.0x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Las Cruces — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Las Vegas — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Las Cruces, NM
Las Vegas, NM
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Las Cruces | Las Vegas | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 5,594.2 | 2,122.4 | +3,471.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 720.8 | 655.4 | +65.4 |
| Murder Rate | 12.1 | 7.8 | +4.3 |
| Rape Rate | 57.8 | 23.4 | +34.4 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.8 | 39.0 | +18.8 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 592.4 | 585.2 | +7.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 4,873.4 | 1,466.9 | +3,406.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 737.2 | 249.7 | +487.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 3,442.9 | 1,108.0 | +2,334.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 693.2 | 109.2 | +584.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Las Cruces or Las Vegas safer?
Las Vegas is safer with a total crime rate of 2,122 per 100K vs 5,594 for Las Cruces — a 62% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Las Cruces has a violent crime rate of 720.8 per 100K while Las Vegas has 655.4. Las Vegas has lower violent crime.
About Las Cruces, NM
Nestled in the Chihuahuan Desert, Las Cruces is New Mexico's second-largest city, known for its vibrant Hatch chile industry. Home to New Mexico State University, it boasts a diverse population and a rich history influenced by Spanish and Mexican cultures. With a safety score of 3/100 and a population coverage of 115,977, Las Cruces has a total crime rate of 5,594.2 per 100,000 residents.
About Las Vegas, NM
Las Vegas, NM, a city with a rich Wild West past and over 900 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, sits at 6,431 feet in elevation. Its diverse population reflects a blend of Hispanic and Anglo cultures. With a safety score of 37/100 and a population coverage of 12,816, Las Vegas has a total crime rate of 2,122.4 per 100,000 residents.