Because of the significant economic boom in Austin, Texas, the city has seen over 65,000 people move to the area in the past year. However, with so many people now inhabiting the region already, there is a growing concern about Austin’s safety.   

When compared to other metro areas in the US, the crime rates in Austin are considerably low. A 2019 study by the FBI revealed that Austin is one of the eight safest metropolitan areas in the US. With a crime rate of 4.15 per 1000 persons, the Austin crime rate is 1.2 times lower than the national average.

While Austin is experiencing a spike in its population, both in individuals and businesses, its crime rate has not been heavily affected, especially when compared to other big cities in the Lone Star State—like Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio. Ultimately, how safe you find Austin depends on a few facts and statistics worth considering first.

What Areas in Austin are the Most Dangerous?

The Austin area may be considerably low in crimes when compared to other metro areas in the US, but several neighborhoods are considered unsafe by locals. Based on a 2019 report by the FBI, below are some of the most dangerous areas in Austin.

East Cezar Chavez

As of 2019, the East Cezar Chavez district, with a population of 3,286, tops the list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Austin, TX. With an estimated total crime rate of 14,752 per 100,000 people, the crime rate in East Cezar Chavez is around 452% higher than the national average.

According to the report, there is 1 in 8 chance of being a victim of property crime, and 1 in 76 chance of being caught in a violent crime situation. In comparison to other cities in Texas, East Cezar Chavez is only 2% safer.

MLK

With a population of around 4,121, MLK is regarded by local law enforcement authorities as one of the most unsafe areas in the Austin area. Known for property crimes like burglary, MLK crime rates are around 206% higher than the national average.

When compared to other areas within the state of Texas, MLK is 4% safer, with a total crime rate of approximately 7,901 per 100,000 people. While there is a higher chance of being a victim of property crimes, there is a 1 in 103 chance of being a victim of a violent crime.

Holly

Although ranked 24th in Time Out’s 50 coolest neighborhoods in the world, Holly has its fair share of violent and property crimes. With a total estimated crime rate of 10,508, the Holly crime rate is 307% higher than the national average.

More importantly, Holly is 4% safer than other cities of Texas, with individuals having a 1 in 10 chance of being a victim of crimes.

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What Neighborhoods Are the Safest in Austin, TX?

Austin may have some unsafe neighborhoods, but there are plenty of safe areas, too, commonly found on the west side of the city. Below are some of the safest communities in Austin.

Downtown

With a total estimate of 1,536 crimes per 100,000 persons, Downtown Austin is 40% lower than the national crime rate average. When compared to other cities in the state of Texas, Downtown is 69% safer. While Downtown Austin has a decent population, you have a 1 in 66 chance of being a victim of a crime.

Windsor Road

Home to some of the best schools and restaurants in the state of Texas, Windsor Road is one of the safest places to live and buy a home in Austin. With a growing population of 7,414, Windsor road boasts of a violent crime rate 46% lower than the national average.

While the total crime rate is 2,106 per 100,000 people, it is 18% lower than the national average of 2,580 per 100,000 persons. In Windsor Road, you have a 1 in 48 chance of being a victim of crime, making the neighborhood safer than 61% of the cities in Texas.

Rosedale

Ranked as one of the best places to live in Austin for families, Rosedale is home to around 6,008 residents. With a total crime rate of 2,147 per 100,000 people, Rosedale is safer than 62% of the cities in Texas.

More importantly, the total crime rate in Rosedale is 17% lower than the national average. With violent crime rates 56 percent lower than the national average, Rosedale is one of the safest places to buy a home in Austin.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Austin is a safe place to buy or rent a home. The level of crime you see will depend on the neighborhood or region you choose to live. Generally speaking, West Austin seems to be safer compared to the east side.

However, if you’re still not confident about the safety of a prospective area, it’s recommended that you contact a realtor to help you research and assess the crime rates of different neighborhoods before deciding where you want to move.