Is Norfolk or San Diego Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Norfolk is safer than San Diego (Safety Score 94/100 vs 38/100), with a total crime rate of 431 per 100,000 versus 2,082 for San Diego — 79% lower. Norfolk has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Norfolk has a 100% lower rate.
Note: San Diego is 117.5x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Norfolk — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
San Diego — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Norfolk, MA
San Diego, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Norfolk | San Diego | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 431.3 | 2,082.4 | -1,651.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 50.7 | 412.4 | -361.6 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 2.5 | -2.5 |
| Rape Rate | 0.0 | 21.4 | -21.4 |
| Robbery Rate | 0.0 | 77.4 | -77.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 50.7 | 310.9 | -260.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 380.6 | 1,670.0 | -1,289.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 152.2 | 187.4 | -35.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 194.5 | 1,087.1 | -892.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 33.8 | 395.5 | -361.7 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norfolk or San Diego safer?
Norfolk is safer with a total crime rate of 431 per 100K vs 2,082 for San Diego — a 79% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Norfolk has a violent crime rate of 50.7 per 100K while San Diego has 412.4. Norfolk has lower violent crime.
About Norfolk, MA
Norfolk, Massachusetts, a small town in southeastern Massachusetts, is primarily residential with a median age of around 40. It was once home to the Norfolk County Agricultural School, reflecting its rural past. With a safety score of 94/100 and a population coverage of 11,824, Norfolk has a total crime rate of 431.3 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.