Is Norfolk or Springfield Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Norfolk is safer than Springfield (Safety Score 94/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 431 per 100,000 versus 3,728 for Springfield — 88% 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: Springfield is 13.2x 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
Springfield — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Norfolk, MA
Springfield, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Norfolk | Springfield | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 431.3 | 3,728.2 | -3,296.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 50.7 | 892.7 | -841.9 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 10.9 | -10.9 |
| Rape Rate | 0.0 | 47.0 | -47.0 |
| Robbery Rate | 0.0 | 209.0 | -209.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 50.7 | 624.5 | -573.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 380.6 | 2,835.5 | -2,455.0 |
| Burglary Rate | 152.2 | 313.8 | -161.6 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 194.5 | 1,856.7 | -1,662.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 33.8 | 665.0 | -631.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norfolk or Springfield safer?
Norfolk is safer with a total crime rate of 431 per 100K vs 3,728 for Springfield — a 88% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Norfolk has a violent crime rate of 50.7 per 100K while Springfield has 892.7. 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 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.