Is Salem or San Diego Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Salem is safer than San Diego (Safety Score 53/100 vs 38/100), with a total crime rate of 1,595 per 100,000 versus 2,082 for San Diego — 23% lower. Salem has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Salem has a 100% lower rate.
Note: San Diego is 119.1x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Salem — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
San Diego — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Salem, OH
San Diego, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Salem | San Diego | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,595.1 | 2,082.4 | -487.3 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 231.5 | 412.4 | -180.8 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 2.5 | -2.5 |
| Rape Rate | 42.9 | 21.4 | +21.5 |
| Robbery Rate | 17.2 | 77.4 | -60.2 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 171.5 | 310.9 | -139.4 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,363.5 | 1,670.0 | -306.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 77.2 | 187.4 | -110.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,243.5 | 1,087.1 | +156.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 42.9 | 395.5 | -352.7 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Salem or San Diego safer?
Salem is safer with a total crime rate of 1,595 per 100K vs 2,082 for San Diego — a 23% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Salem has a violent crime rate of 231.5 per 100K while San Diego has 412.4. Salem has lower violent crime.
About Salem, OH
Salem, Ohio, founded by Quakers in 1806, is a small city in northern Columbiana County. Its manufacturing heritage shaped the town, which is now home to around 11,000 residents. With a safety score of 53/100 and a population coverage of 11,661, Salem has a total crime rate of 1,595.1 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.