Is Norfolk or Phoenix Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Phoenix is safer than Norfolk (Safety Score 17/100 vs 7/100), with a total crime rate of 3,125 per 100,000 versus 4,242 for Norfolk — 26% lower. Norfolk has lower rates in 4 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Norfolk has a 57% lower rate.
Note: Phoenix is 7.2x 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
Phoenix — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Norfolk, VA
Phoenix, AZ
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Norfolk | Phoenix | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,242.0 | 3,125.4 | +1,116.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 469.5 | 800.0 | -330.5 |
| Murder Rate | 16.1 | 8.4 | +7.7 |
| Rape Rate | 40.4 | 64.3 | -23.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 77.2 | 181.6 | -104.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 335.9 | 545.3 | -209.5 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,772.5 | 2,325.3 | +1,447.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 254.3 | 317.2 | -62.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 3,122.9 | 1,582.1 | +1,540.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 395.3 | 426.0 | -30.7 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norfolk or Phoenix safer?
Phoenix is safer with a total crime rate of 3,125 per 100K vs 4,242 for Norfolk — a 26% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Norfolk has a violent crime rate of 469.5 per 100K while Phoenix has 800.0. Norfolk has lower violent crime.
About Norfolk, VA
Norfolk, a historic port city in Southeast Virginia, is home to the world's largest naval base. Its waterfront location at the mouth of the Elizabeth River shapes its identity and economy, drawing a diverse population. With a safety score of 7/100 and a population coverage of 230,460, Norfolk has a total crime rate of 4,242.0 per 100,000 residents.
About Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix, Arizona, the "Valley of the Sun," is a sprawling desert metropolis with a rich Native American heritage, including the Hohokam people. It's the fifth-largest city in the United States by population, experiencing rapid growth in recent decades. With a safety score of 17/100 and a population coverage of 1,662,809, Phoenix has a total crime rate of 3,125.4 per 100,000 residents.