Are you planning to move to Austin, or to attend a special event like SXSW or ACL for your family vacation? Austin, TX is always famous for its vibrant music scene and eclectic food culture. Every year, 19.7 million people visit the Texas capital. However, behind the cityās lively attractions, safety should be a key consideration.
In this guide, we'll give you a grounded look at how safe Austin, Texas, is by breaking down: crime rate, safest and most dangerous neighborhoods, practical safety strategies, and answers to FAQs like nighttime safety and tourist security. Keep reading to navigate Austin confidently.
Is Austin, Texas Safe? Crime Rate Overview
Overall, Austin is a safe city compared to cities with similar population sizes. According to the 2024 crime figures released by the FBI, the overall crime rate in Austin is 3709 crimes per 100,000 residents, 75% higher than in the U.S. (2,119 incidents per 100,000 residents) and 44% higher than Texas. The violent crime rate in Austin is at 466.9 per 100,000 individuals, which is 30% higher than the national average of 359.1, while its property crime level has been measured as 3,241.9 out of every 100,000 people in the population ā making it highly desirable compared to other cities with comparable sizes.
But the good news is that statistics show reported crime is down in Austin in 2024 compared to 2023. Comparing 2019 reported crime stats to those in 2024, property crimes in a mixed back. Shoplifting and burglary are down, but motor vehicle theft is way up. As for violent crimes, robberies are down, but aggravated assaults, kidnappings, and homicides are up. In 2019, Austin police reported 36 homicides. In 2024, APD reported 70.
| Crime Type | 2019 | 2023 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property Crime | Shoplifting | 3,201 | 1,787 | 2,047 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 2,978 | 6,891 | 5,529 | |
| Burglary | 4,293 | 4,490 | 3,728 | |
| Violent Crime | Kidnapping | 170 | 254 | 237 |
| Robbery | 1,058 | 908 | 776 | |
| Aggravated Assault | 2,576 | 3,449 | 2,762 |
How Safe is Austin, TX compared to other major urban centers?
Austin is still a relatively safe city compared to other large urban centers. Despite facing some challenges with crime, ATX is still safer than 7% of Texas cities and 11% of cities in the U.S. According to a study released by SmartAsset in 2025, Austin ranks 28th in safety among the 50 largest cities in the U.S.
Austin's crime rates are lower than in major Texas cities like Houston and Dallas. By comparison, the violent crime rate in Dallas is 41% higher than in Austin. In Houston, the violent crime rate is 146% higher.
| City | Total crime rate (per 100,000) | Violent crime rate (per 100,000) | Property crime rate (per 100,000) | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin, Texas | 3708.8 | 466.9 | 3241.9 | 984,613 |
| Houston, Texas | 5441.6 | 1148.2 | 4293.5 | 2,319,160 |
| Dallas, Texas | 4010.1 | 658.2 | 3351.9 | 1,321,502 |
š Related reading: Safest Cities in Texas: Best Places for You to Live in 2025
Top 5 Safest Places in Austin, Texas
Now that you have a clearer picture of Austin's safety landscape, you might wonder: is Austin Texas a safe place to visit or reside? Let's spotlight neighborhoods where security and quality of life converge seamlessly.
1. Comanche Canyon Ranch
Comanche Canyon Ranch has a low crime rate compared with the national average. This idyllic area features 98 luxurious homes and is great for outdoor lovers as it's close to both Lake Travis and the Colorado River, with rolling hills, picturesque views, and lush greenery.
2. Steiner Ranch
Steiner Ranch, a beautiful hill country community on Lake Travis' south side, has a relatively low crime rate compared to the rest of the United States. The average violent crime rate in Steiner Ranch is 10.8, far well below the national average.
3. Barton Creek
Barton Creek, located in western Austin, Texas, is one of the safest areas for some of the wealthiest residents. It is a relatively safe community with a violent crime rate of 11.1, well below the national average. Its safe atmosphere has attracted luxury homeowners who are drawn to its beautifully landscaped yards, high-end stores, fine-dining restaurants, and premier golf courses.
4. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of the best safe Austin neighborhoods that is just north of the University of Texas. The violent crime rate in Hyde Park is 4.629 per 1,000 residents in the typical year. Youāll find a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks there.
5. Shady Hollow
Shady Hollow, TX is a small suburban town located ten miles (16 km) southwest of Downtown Austin with lots of greenbelts, parks, nature, and wildlife. The town has a relatively low crime rate compared to the national average, with a violent crime rate of 10.1 and a property crime rate of 20.3.
6 Most Dangerous Areas in Austin
Crime statistics can be misleading. Danger level varies by locale and time of day. You have to know where the bad parts are, and act accordingly. Being vigilant when going out can help reduce the risk for individuals who must go into these high-crime zones.
1. Georgian Acres
Georgian Acres, situated in north-central Austin, tops the list of high-risk areas. The violent crime rate in Georgian Acres is 7.154 per 1,000 residents in the typical year, 238% higher than the national average.
2. Heritage Hills
Located in North Austin, Heritage Hills is another one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Austin. The total crime rate in Heritage Hills is 14111 crimes per 100,000 residents, which is 566% higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is 266% higher than the national average and 182% higher than the rest of Austin.
3. Rundberg
Situated in North Austin, Rundberg has long been considered one of the bad parts of Austin. Located within District 4, Rundberg has higher crime rates compared to other Austin neighborhoods. In 2024, District 4 had the highest crime rates, particularly in homicides and violent crimes. According to the Austin Police Department's data portal, District 4 was responsible for 23% of all homicides and 22% of aggravated assaults in Austin last year.
4. Montopolis
Montopolis has attracted new residents and investments, but pockets of the neighborhood continue to struggle with high crime rates, particularly property crimes like burglaries and thefts. The total crime rate in Heritage Hills is 7754 crimes per 100,000 residents, which is 266% higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is 295% higher than the national average and 204% higher than the rest of Austin.
5. East Riverside-Oltorf
Whereas East Riverside-Oltorf is more affordable and accessible over many other areas, poor crime inconsistencies definitely raise a concern. It still has serious issues of drug dealing as well as other criminal activities. When in these locations, it's recommended to take extra precautions by avoiding them if possible or traveling in groups.
6. Johnston Terrace
Johnston Terrace stands out as one of Austin's most dangerous neighborhoods. The total crime rate in Heritage Hills is 7650 crimes per 100,000 residents, which is 261% higher than the national average. Violent crimes, including assaults and robberies, are more prevalent here compared to other parts of the city, 263% higher than the national average.
Other hotspots include East Riverside, North Lamar, Del Valle, and St. John's, where property crime spikes and violent offenses occasionally occur. This doesn't mean you can't live here, but vigilance is non-negotiable.
4 Tips to Stay Secure in Austin, Texas
Whether you're moving to Austin, already living here, or just visiting. These proven safety strategies are vital. What follows isn't just advice. It's practical, life-smart knowledge to navigate the city with confidence.
Effective Security System for High-Crime Areas
Proactive measures, such as surveillance cameras and smart lock systems are essential for residents in these high-risk areas. Rising property crime rates often translate to increased vulnerability.
For Austin residents seeking robust home protection, eufy LocalSecureā¢ System delivers AI-powered defense. eufy LocalSecureā¢ System enhances every device and process as part of a larger security network. Put a shield around your home and create a worry-free, highly-advanced home security system for you.
- Advanced BionicMindā¢ AI Detection: Edge Security empowered devices send detected activity to HomeBase S380 where BionicMindā¢ analyzes the events. If the system recognizes suspicious activity, it can trigger alarms and alert you immediately.
- Advanced Image Quality: Utilizing advanced camera sensors and resolutions of up to 4K, you'll see brighter and clearer at any time of the day. Plus, eufy Security night vision technology sees in color at night to let you identify more details.
- Local Storage: eufy LocalSecureā¢ System operates locally at every possible stage, giving you control of your data and eliminating monthly fees.
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Pay Attention to Traffic Safety
Whether walking, cycling, or driving in Austin, prioritize hyper-awareness, congested roads like I-35 demand constant hazard anticipation. Always signal early, avoid distractions, and never retaliate against aggressive drivers as your safety matters more than confrontation. Defensive habits prevent collisions when infrastructure lags behind growth.
Lock Well Home & Car Door
Given Austin's prevalent property crime, vigilance is non-negotiableāalways secure valuables on your person and double-check locks on homes/cars. Consider reinforcing entry points with deadbolts or smart locks where possible.
Register in Neighborhood Safety Plan
Engage with local safety initiatives by joining neighborhood watch programs or attending community meetings. These platforms amplify collective vigilance. Your active participation not only sharpens your situational awareness but also deters crime through visible community cohesion.
Conclusion
Is Austin, Texas safe? While Austin's crime rate is higher than the national average, its overall safety is relatively high among large U.S. cities, considering its population size. By following safety tips such as installing security systems, choosing safer neighborhoods, and staying vigilant in higher-risk areas, especially by avoiding late-night outings, you can significantly reduce your safety risks.
FAQs
Is it Safe to Walk Around Austin at Night?
Generally, downtown Austin is safe for walking at night in well-trafficked areas like the Warehouse District or near major hotels, where police presence is robust. Avoid dimly lit alleys, underpasses, and areas like Montopolis or East Riverside after dark due to higher crime rate.
Is Austin, Texas Safe for Tourists?
Yes, Austin is generally safe for tourists, especially in busy areas like Downtown, South Congress, and the University district. Most visitors experience no issues, but like any large city, it's wise to stay alert. As long as you keep valuables secure, use well-lit streets at night, and follow local safety tips.
Is it safe to walk in downtown Austin?
Downtown Austin is generally safe to walk around, where you can enjoy vibrant nightlife and rich cultural experiences. However, it's important to stay cautious in certain areas and at certain times. Stick to busy areas, walk in groups, and try to use public transportation instead of wandering alone for long time to ensure your safety.
What part of Austin to stay away from?
The neighborhoods of Georgian Acres, Heritage Hills, East Riverside, St. Johns, Johnston Terrace and Montopolis are considered among the most dangerous places to avoid at night.
