Is Las Cruces or Santa Monica Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Santa Monica is safer than Las Cruces (Safety Score 3/100 vs 3/100), with a total crime rate of 5,573 per 100,000 versus 5,594 for Las Cruces — 0% lower. Las Cruces has higher rates in 3 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Las Cruces has a 71% lower rate.
Las Cruces — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Santa Monica — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Las Cruces, NM
Santa Monica, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Las Cruces | Santa Monica | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 5,594.2 | 5,572.9 | +21.3 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 720.8 | 782.5 | -61.7 |
| Murder Rate | 12.1 | 4.5 | +7.6 |
| Rape Rate | 57.8 | 72.0 | -14.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.8 | 202.4 | -144.6 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 592.4 | 499.2 | +93.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 4,873.4 | 4,790.4 | +82.9 |
| Burglary Rate | 737.2 | 848.8 | -111.6 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 3,442.9 | 3,382.9 | +60.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 693.2 | 558.8 | +134.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Las Cruces or Santa Monica safer?
Santa Monica is safer with a total crime rate of 5,573 per 100K vs 5,594 for Las Cruces — a 0% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Las Cruces has a violent crime rate of 720.8 per 100K while Santa Monica has 782.5. Las Cruces 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 Santa Monica, CA
Santa Monica, a coastal city west of downtown Los Angeles, is known for its iconic pier and vibrant tourism. Its beaches and Pacific Ocean proximity draw a diverse population, including many young professionals and families. With a safety score of 3/100 and a population coverage of 88,948, Santa Monica has a total crime rate of 5,572.9 per 100,000 residents.