Is Madison or West Allis Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Madison is safer than West Allis (Safety Score 37/100 vs 34/100), with a total crime rate of 2,121 per 100,000 versus 2,234 for West Allis — 5% lower. Madison has lower rates in 5 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where West Allis has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Madison is 4.8x 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
West Allis — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Madison, WI
West Allis, WI
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Madison | West Allis | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,121.3 | 2,234.0 | -112.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 256.3 | 256.5 | -0.2 |
| Murder Rate | 2.5 | 0.0 | +2.5 |
| Rape Rate | 26.6 | 23.8 | +2.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 33.7 | 74.8 | -41.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 193.2 | 158.0 | +35.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,865.0 | 1,977.5 | -112.6 |
| Burglary Rate | 158.5 | 190.3 | -31.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,595.5 | 1,478.0 | +117.5 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 111.0 | 309.2 | -198.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Madison or West Allis safer?
Madison is safer with a total crime rate of 2,121 per 100K vs 2,234 for West Allis — a 5% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Madison has a violent crime rate of 256.3 per 100K while West Allis has 256.5. Madison 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 West Allis, WI
West Allis, once "the city of homes," is an inner-ring Milwaukee suburb. Historically a manufacturing hub, it's a densely populated area with a diverse mix of housing stock. With a safety score of 34/100 and a population coverage of 58,862, West Allis has a total crime rate of 2,234.0 per 100,000 residents.