Is Melvindale or San Diego Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Melvindale is safer than San Diego (Safety Score 57/100 vs 38/100), with a total crime rate of 1,467 per 100,000 versus 2,082 for San Diego — 30% lower. Melvindale has lower rates in 5 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where San Diego has a 85% lower rate.
Note: San Diego is 113.2x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Melvindale — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
San Diego — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Melvindale, MI
San Diego, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Melvindale | San Diego | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,467.4 | 2,082.4 | -615.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 301.6 | 412.4 | -110.8 |
| Murder Rate | 16.3 | 2.5 | +13.8 |
| Rape Rate | 32.6 | 21.4 | +11.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 32.6 | 77.4 | -44.8 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 220.1 | 310.9 | -90.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,165.7 | 1,670.0 | -504.3 |
| Burglary Rate | 203.8 | 187.4 | +16.4 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 709.2 | 1,087.1 | -377.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 252.7 | 395.5 | -142.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Melvindale or San Diego safer?
Melvindale is safer with a total crime rate of 1,467 per 100K vs 2,082 for San Diego — a 30% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Melvindale has a violent crime rate of 301.6 per 100K while San Diego has 412.4. Melvindale has lower violent crime.
About Melvindale, MI
Melvindale, a Downriver community, was once home to a large Ford stamping plant. Situated just southwest of Detroit, it's a small, densely populated city with a strong working-class heritage. With a safety score of 57/100 and a population coverage of 12,267, Melvindale has a total crime rate of 1,467.4 per 100,000 residents.
About San Diego, CA
San Diego, California, a major port city with a significant Hispanic population, sits on the Pacific Ocean just north of the Mexican border. Known for its mild climate and Balboa Park, it's also home to a large naval presence. With a safety score of 38/100 and a population coverage of 1,389,024, San Diego has a total crime rate of 2,082.4 per 100,000 residents.