Is Northampton or Springfield Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Northampton is safer than Springfield (Safety Score 49/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 1,717 per 100,000 versus 3,728 for Springfield — 54% lower. Northampton has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Northampton has a 94% lower rate.
Note: Springfield is 5.2x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Northampton — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Springfield — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Northampton, MA
Springfield, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Northampton | Springfield | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,717.2 | 3,728.2 | -2,011.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 445.1 | 892.7 | -447.6 |
| Murder Rate | 3.3 | 10.9 | -7.6 |
| Rape Rate | 63.1 | 47.0 | +16.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 13.3 | 209.0 | -195.7 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 365.4 | 624.5 | -259.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,272.1 | 2,835.5 | -1,563.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 162.8 | 313.8 | -151.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,069.5 | 1,856.7 | -787.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 39.9 | 665.0 | -625.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northampton or Springfield safer?
Northampton is safer with a total crime rate of 1,717 per 100K vs 3,728 for Springfield — a 54% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Northampton has a violent crime rate of 445.1 per 100K while Springfield has 892.7. Northampton has lower violent crime.
About Northampton, MA
Nestled in the Pioneer Valley, Northampton, MA, a vibrant college town home to Smith College, boasts a progressive culture and a high proportion of residents with advanced degrees. Its historic downtown is a hub for independent businesses and the arts. With a safety score of 49/100 and a population coverage of 30,108, Northampton has a total crime rate of 1,717.2 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.