Is Newton or Springfield Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Newton is safer than Springfield (Safety Score 87/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 648 per 100,000 versus 3,728 for Springfield — 83% lower. Newton has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Newton has a 100% lower rate.
Newton — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Springfield — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Newton, MA
Springfield, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Newton | Springfield | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 648.3 | 3,728.2 | -3,079.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 48.9 | 892.7 | -843.7 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 10.9 | -10.9 |
| Rape Rate | 10.0 | 47.0 | -36.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 1.1 | 209.0 | -207.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 37.8 | 624.5 | -586.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 599.3 | 2,835.5 | -2,236.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 63.4 | 313.8 | -250.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 501.5 | 1,856.7 | -1,355.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 34.5 | 665.0 | -630.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Newton or Springfield safer?
Newton is safer with a total crime rate of 648 per 100K vs 3,728 for Springfield — a 83% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Newton has a violent crime rate of 48.9 per 100K while Springfield has 892.7. Newton has lower violent crime.
About Newton, MA
Newton, a suburban city in Middlesex County, is home to Boston College. Known for its distinct "villages," it's one of Massachusetts' wealthiest communities. With a safety score of 87/100 and a population coverage of 89,935, Newton has a total crime rate of 648.3 per 100,000 residents.
About Springfield, MA
Springfield, Massachusetts, a city on the Connecticut River, is the "City of Firsts," notably home to the invention of basketball. Its diverse population of over 150,000 residents reflects a rich industrial past and a vibrant present as an economic hub. With a safety score of 11/100 and a population coverage of 155,491, Springfield has a total crime rate of 3,728.2 per 100,000 residents.