Austin, renowned for its vibrant culture and booming tech scene, has recently come under scrutiny for some of its neighborhoods grappling with high crime rates. A comprehensive examination of crime data has identified the top six most dangerous neighborhoods in the city, shedding light on the concerning trends that residents and visitors should be aware of.

Is Austin Dangerous?

While Austin generally maintains lower crime rates compared to other major American cities, certain areas have gained notoriety for their alarming crime statistics. The downtown and tourist districts remain secure, emphasizing that staying in these well-patrolled regions is crucial for ensuring safety.

Top 6 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods

1. Georgian Acres: This north-central Austin neighborhood, with a population of 9,600, holds the dubious title of the most dangerous in the city. A staggering crime rate of 10,925 per 100,000 residents in 2022, a shocking 365% higher than the national average, underscores the challenges it faces. Despite ongoing revitalization efforts, Georgian Acres remains a focus for safety improvement.
2. Montopolis: Situated in southeast Austin, Montopolis, with a population of 12,211, boasts a crime rate 302% higher than the national average. Residents here face a daunting 1 in 11 chance of falling victim to criminal activity, making it imperative to exercise caution when navigating this neighborhood.
3. Martin Luther King Highway 183: This area, with a population of 8,366, has a crime rate of 8,250 per 100,000, marking it as one of the most crime-ridden neighborhoods in Austin. High poverty rates persist, with a median income of only $38,101, contributing to the ongoing challenges faced by residents.
4. Riverside: Despite being a growing community with affordable housing options, Riverside carries a high crime rate of 8,283 per 100,000, 248% higher than the national average. The neighborhood grapples with personal theft and car theft issues, though violent crime remains relatively lower.
5. Johnston Terrace: Nestled in east Austin, Johnston Terrace, with a population of 1,681, faces a high crime rate of 7,695 per 100,000, 228% higher than the national average. Affordable living attracts many middle-class individuals, but vigilance is paramount due to prevalent crimes like theft and burglary.
6. Saint Johns: Central Austin’s Saint Johns, with a population of 9,414, has a total crime rate of 6,002, marking it as one of the city’s perilous neighborhoods. With a 156% higher crime rate than the national average, residents have a 1 in 17 chance of becoming victims. Despite being a working-class neighborhood, safety concerns persist.

Addressing Concerns and Building a Safer Austin

The identification of these neighborhoods calls attention to the need for increased community initiatives, law enforcement efforts, and citywide investments to address the root causes of crime. As Austin continues to grow, fostering safety in all areas remains a shared responsibility for residents, local authorities, and community organizations.