Austin, Texas has earned its reputation as one of the most exciting, innovative, and rapidly growing cities in the U.S. With its unique culture, booming tech industry, vibrant music scene, and food that makes you forget every diet you’ve ever tried, people are packing up and moving to Austin in droves. But if you’re considering a relocation, one crucial question naturally arises: is Austin, TX safe to live?
Let’s break it down with a human lens, no fluff, just what you need to know.
What Safety Means When Moving to a New City
“Safe” can mean different things to different people. For some, it’s about avoiding high crime areas. For others, it’s about walkable neighborhoods, traffic safety, and community vibes. In the case of Austin, the answer to is Austin, TX safe to live depends on what your definition of safety is, and where you plant your roots.
We’ll look at crime data, neighborhood profiles, public safety infrastructure, and real-life experiences to help paint the full picture.
Crime in Austin: The Big Picture
Let’s get real, no big city is entirely crime-free. But Austin is generally considered safer than other major metropolitan areas in the U.S. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program and recent reports from the Austin Police Department, violent crime in the city is moderately below the national average, while property crime is slightly above average, especially in certain zip codes.
Violent Crime Rate in Austin
In 2025, Austin reported a violent crime rate of around 370 incidents per 100,000 people. That includes offenses like aggravated assault, robbery, and homicide. For comparison, cities like Houston and Dallas sit closer to 500 or more. So if you’re wondering, is Austin, TX safe to live, the numbers suggest that it fares quite well compared to similar cities in Texas and beyond.
Property Crime Stats
Property crime, think burglary, theft, and vehicle break-ins, is where Austin struggles a bit more. The rate is around 2,700 per 100,000 people, which is on the higher side. Areas near the university or entertainment districts tend to see more theft, often crimes of opportunity.
So yes, you’ll want to lock your car doors, be smart with where you park, and use basic precautions. But it’s not a war zone, just urban living.
Safest Neighborhoods in Austin, TX
If you’re considering where to move, here are a few neighborhoods with reputations for being safe, quiet, and family-friendly:
- West Lake Hills: This upscale suburb west of downtown is known for top-rated schools, quiet streets, and low crime. It’s a top pick for families and professionals looking for both nature and city proximity.
- Circle C Ranch: Located in South Austin, this planned community offers parks, good schools, and low crime statistics. It’s one of the best places for raising children in a suburban setting.
- Steiner Ranch; If you don’t mind being 30 minutes out of downtown, Steiner Ranch offers safety, Lake Austin views, and that peaceful Hill Country vibe.
- Mueller: An eco-conscious, modern community just northeast of downtown. It’s walkable, community-focused, and growing rapidly with excellent amenities.
These areas reinforce the idea that yes, is Austin, TX safe to live, especially if you choose your neighborhood wisely.
Areas With Higher Crime Rates
Honest talk: no city is without rough patches. In Austin, areas like:
- East Riverside
- North Lamar
- St. Johns
- Montopolis
…have higher property crime and occasional violent crime. That doesn’t mean you can’t live there, it just means you’ll need to be mindful, especially at night or when walking alone.
That said, these areas are also seeing redevelopment, and many residents live there without issues. Community dynamics are shifting, and with more city investment in infrastructure and policing, improvements continue each year.
Community Policing and Public Safety Measures
The Austin Police Department (APD) has made strides in community outreach, transparency, and public safety initiatives. After a rough couple of years with budget cuts and officer shortages, the city is now rehiring officers, improving response times, and re-engaging with neighborhoods through foot patrols and social programs.
Additionally, Austin residents often rely on neighborhood associations, Nextdoor, and Ring Neighbors for real-time safety updates, lost pet alerts, and organizing watch programs.
Austin’s Traffic and Pedestrian Safety
When asking “is Austin, TX safe to live,” don’t ignore transportation safety. Austin’s growing population means traffic has increased, and with it, vehicle-related incidents.
- I-35, one of the city’s main arteries, is notoriously congested and has one of the highest accident rates.
- Biking in Austin can be both a joy and a risk depending on the part of town. The city is investing in bike lanes and pedestrian crosswalks, but it’s still a work in progress.
- Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are heavily used and help reduce DUI-related incidents, especially around entertainment districts.
School Safety: How Does Austin Compare?
If you’re moving with kids, safety at school is a top priority. The Austin Independent School District (AISD) implements comprehensive security measures like campus officers, visitor management systems, and mental health support.
Neighborhoods like Barton Hills, Tarrytown, and Allandale boast schools with not only high academic ratings but also excellent safety records. Private and charter options, such as Acton Academy and Headwaters School, are also known for their nurturing environments.
Emergency Services and Health Infrastructure
Austin’s healthcare network, featuring top-tier institutions like Dell Seton Medical Center and St. David’s Healthcare, means that help is never far away. Emergency response times average around 7–9 minutes for police and ambulances depending on your location.
The city also has robust disaster response plans, which came into play notably during Winter Storm Uri in 2021. Lessons learned from that event have spurred investment in infrastructure and contingency plans for future crises.
The Role of Community in Feeling Safe
Let’s face it, crime stats only tell part of the story. Feeling safe comes down to connection, routine, and awareness. In Austin, community events, farmer’s markets, local Facebook groups, and even block parties create bonds between neighbors.
Whether you’re in a downtown condo or a suburban cul-de-sac, people tend to look out for one another. And that, more than a number on a chart, goes a long way in answering, is Austin, TX safe to live?
Tips to Stay Safe When Moving to Austin
- Choose a safe neighborhood – Use tools like AreaVibes, NeighborhoodScout, or CityProtect to compare crime rates.
- Get to know your neighbors – Community makes a big difference.
- Use security systems – Doorbell cams and smart locks go a long way.
- Be cautious downtown at night – Just like any city, stick to well-lit areas.
- Stay informed – Join local forums and follow APD updates on Twitter or Facebook.
Is Austin, TX Safe to Live?
Is Austin, TX safe to live? Yes, if you make informed decisions. Like any major city, there are parts that require caution and others that feel like a slice of suburban paradise. Austin offers a healthy balance of safety, community, opportunity, and culture that’s hard to beat.
Is it perfect? No city is. But for most people, the perks of living in Austin—from the tacos to the tech jobs, far outweigh the concerns. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or lifestyle, partnering with a trusted moving company in Austin can help you transition smoothly and settle into the right neighborhood with peace of mind.
With a strong reputation for customer service, attention to detail, and affordable pricing, we offer a full range of services including local moves, long-distance relocations, packing, and storage solutions. We handle your belongings with precision and care, ensuring everything arrives safely at your new destination.
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