Is Pittsburgh or Pottsville Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Pottsville is safer than Pittsburgh (Safety Score 50/100 vs 24/100), with a total crime rate of 1,677 per 100,000 versus 2,709 for Pittsburgh — 38% lower. Pittsburgh has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Pottsville has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Pittsburgh is 23.7x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Pittsburgh — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Pottsville — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Pittsburgh, PA
Pottsville, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Pittsburgh | Pottsville | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,708.6 | 1,676.5 | +1,032.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 428.5 | 329.3 | +99.2 |
| Murder Rate | 11.4 | 0.0 | +11.4 |
| Rape Rate | 51.7 | 59.9 | -8.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 124.2 | 29.9 | +94.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 239.9 | 239.5 | +0.4 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,280.1 | 1,347.2 | +932.9 |
| Burglary Rate | 232.7 | 164.7 | +68.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,704.4 | 1,137.6 | +566.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 343.0 | 44.9 | +298.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pittsburgh or Pottsville safer?
Pottsville is safer with a total crime rate of 1,677 per 100K vs 2,709 for Pittsburgh — a 38% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Pittsburgh has a violent crime rate of 428.5 per 100K while Pottsville has 329.3. Pottsville has lower violent crime.
About Pittsburgh, PA
Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains where three rivers meet, Pittsburgh is a city of bridges and former steel mills. Its rich industrial past shaped its distinct neighborhoods and resilient, diverse population. With a safety score of 24/100 and a population coverage of 317,177, Pittsburgh has a total crime rate of 2,708.6 per 100,000 residents.
About Pottsville, PA
Pottsville, home to Yuengling, America's oldest brewery, is a small city nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. Its population is predominantly white, reflecting its rich industrial past in coal mining. With a safety score of 50/100 and a population coverage of 13,361, Pottsville has a total crime rate of 1,676.5 per 100,000 residents.