Is Madison or Superior Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Madison is safer than Superior (Safety Score 37/100 vs 30/100), with a total crime rate of 2,121 per 100,000 versus 2,425 for Superior — 13% lower. Madison has lower rates in 5 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Superior has a 66% lower rate.
Note: Madison is 10.7x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Madison — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Superior — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Madison, WI
Superior, WI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Madison | Superior | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,121.3 | 2,424.9 | -303.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 256.3 | 220.5 | +35.9 |
| Murder Rate | 2.5 | 3.8 | -1.3 |
| Rape Rate | 26.6 | 53.2 | -26.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 33.7 | 11.4 | +22.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 193.2 | 152.0 | +41.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,865.0 | 2,204.5 | -339.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 158.5 | 186.2 | -27.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,595.5 | 1,847.2 | -251.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 111.0 | 171.0 | -60.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Madison or Superior safer?
Madison is safer with a total crime rate of 2,121 per 100K vs 2,425 for Superior — a 13% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Madison has a violent crime rate of 256.3 per 100K while Superior has 220.5. Superior has lower violent crime.
About Madison, WI
Madison, the capital of Wisconsin, sits on an isthmus between two lakes, Mendota and Monona. Home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, it's known for its progressive politics and vibrant student culture. With a safety score of 37/100 and a population coverage of 282,045, Madison has a total crime rate of 2,121.3 per 100,000 residents.
About Superior, WI
Superior, Wisconsin, a port city at the westernmost point of Lake Superior, boasts a rich maritime history, once home to numerous grain elevators. Its diverse population, with a significant indigenous community, reflects its historical ties to the Ojibwe people. With a safety score of 30/100 and a population coverage of 26,310, Superior has a total crime rate of 2,424.9 per 100,000 residents.