Is San Diego or Waterbury Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, San Diego is safer than Waterbury (Safety Score 38/100 vs 16/100), with a total crime rate of 2,082 per 100,000 versus 3,241 for Waterbury — 36% lower. San Diego has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where San Diego has a 64% lower rate.
Note: San Diego is 12.0x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
San Diego — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Waterbury — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
San Diego, CA
Waterbury, CT
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | San Diego | Waterbury | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,082.4 | 3,241.1 | -1,158.7 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 412.4 | 322.5 | +89.9 |
| Murder Rate | 2.5 | 6.9 | -4.4 |
| Rape Rate | 21.4 | 44.2 | -22.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 77.4 | 104.9 | -27.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 310.9 | 166.4 | +144.5 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,670.0 | 2,918.6 | -1,248.6 |
| Burglary Rate | 187.4 | 229.7 | -42.3 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,087.1 | 2,054.4 | -967.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 395.5 | 634.5 | -239.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Diego or Waterbury safer?
San Diego is safer with a total crime rate of 2,082 per 100K vs 3,241 for Waterbury — a 36% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
San Diego has a violent crime rate of 412.4 per 100K while Waterbury has 322.5. Waterbury has lower violent crime.
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.
About Waterbury, CT
Waterbury, once a brass manufacturing hub, is a city in New Haven County. Situated on the Naugatuck River, it's home to a diverse population and distinct neighborhoods. With a safety score of 16/100 and a population coverage of 115,363, Waterbury has a total crime rate of 3,241.1 per 100,000 residents.