Safest Areas in and Around Austin

Proud of their city’s eclectic nature, Austinites have warmly embraced the credo, “Keep Austin Weird.” An abundance of street art, murals on South Congress and oddities like the Cathedral of Junk contribute to the Texas state capital’s reputation in this regard. The city’s food truck culture also dominates, offering legendary barbecue and breakfast tacos seemingly everywhere. An abundance of comfortable neighborhoods adds to Austin’s desirability as a place to put down roots.

This guide highlights some of the safest areas in and around Austin, focusing primarily on neighborhoods within the city while also including nearby communities that consistently report lower crime rates.

How We Identified Austin, TX’s Safest Neighborhoods

These selections are based on crime statistics from the FBI Crime Data Explorer and safety rankings from local analysis sites like NeighborhoodScout and AreaVibes. We also considered community engagement, lighting, walkability and resident sentiment. While no neighborhood is completely free of crime, the following areas in Austin consistently rank among the lowest and are often praised for their safety-focused community cultures.

Top 5 Safest Neighborhoods in Austin, TX

Downtown

Downtown Austin features high-rise condos, apartments and a mix of historic structures. The neighborhood attracts professionals with its walkable streets, vibrant energy and proximity to key landmarks. Business, entertainment and outdoor access are seamlessly blended there. With a reported 1,484 crimes per 100,000 people, Downtown’s crime rate is 60% lower than that of Austin in general. The area’s 12,436 residents also experience a 30% lower crime rate than the nation as a whole. Downtown’s livability score of 78/100 is considered exceptional. The people who live there say they enjoy the balance of work and play the area offers.

East Cesar Chavez

East Cesar Chavez, located east of downtown Austin, is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. Known for its rich Latino heritage and blend of historic charm with modern development, the neighborhood features a mix of restored Victorians and bungalows, alongside new constructions. East Cesar Chavez also offers its 3,639 residents mature trees and colorful facades that create a walkable, artistic vibe. The neighborhood is said to experience 2,596 crimes per 100,000 people. This makes its crime rate 30% lower than that of Austin as a whole. However, it’s 22% higher than the national average. Residents of East Cesar Chavez enjoy a livability score of 76/100, which is considered exceptional.

Holly

Holly, situated in east Austin, stands out for its rich history and evolving urban vibe. The community’s location offers easy access to downtown Austin’s core, including the Historic 6th Street Entertainment District. Holly’s proximity to the Colorado River enhances its appeal for outdoor access. Blending cultural heritage with modern appeal, the community features walkable streets and a mix of old bungalows with new developments. Approximately 2,934 citizens of Austin reside in the area, with a reported crime rate of 2,679 per 100,000 people. The area is reported to experience 28% less crime than Austin as a whole, but 26% more than the national average. Holly’s livability score of 76/100 is considered exceptional.

RELATED: THE MOST DANGEROUS AREAS IN AUSTIN

Windsor Road

Windsor Road is an attractive residential neighborhood in northwest Austin. Known for its walkable streets and ready access to urban amenities, Windsor Road appeals to young professionals and families seeking a mix of suburban charm and city life. With 5,510 residents, its crime rate of 3,122 per 100,000 people ranks it as having 16% less crime than Austin as a whole, but 47% more than the national average. Windsor Road offers quick drives to downtown, as well as good public transit and road connections. Residents benefit from easy commutes to major employers and interesting cultural spots, while enjoying a quieter setting. The neighborhood’s livability score of 77/100 is considered exceptional.

Triangle State

Triangle State is a lively, walkable neighborhood in north-central Austin. It appeals to students, young professionals, and couples with its modern amenities and proximity to the University of Texas. The area features luxury apartments, retail shops and gourmet grocers. Home to some 1,820 Austinites, the area’s crime rate of 3,370 per 100,000 people is 9% lower than Austin’s as a whole, but 59% higher than the national average. The area rates a livability score of 84/100, which is considered exceptional. Described as safe, quiet, and clean—with a suburban feel despite urban conveniences—Triangle State feels secure day and night.

Round Rock, Texas (Suburb)

Located just north of Austin, Round Rock consistently reports lower violent crime rates compared to the city average. The area is known for its family-oriented neighborhoods, strong school districts, and active community policing efforts. While no area is crime-free, Round Rock’s stable residential development and lower-density layout contribute to its reputation as one of the safer communities in the greater Austin area.

What Makes These Neighborhoods Safer

While every part of the city has unique characteristics, the neighborhoods above tend to share several safety-positive traits:

Active neighborhood associations and community events
Higher levels of homeownership
Better lighting and street visibility
Access to parks, schools, and public services
Residents who take initiative with watch programs or local communication

Local police departments also maintain a presence in many of these areas, further supporting public trust and responsiveness.

Best Practices for Keeping a Safe Neighborhood Safe

Even in low-crime areas, staying vigilant helps preserve that sense of security. These everyday habits contribute to neighborhood safety:

Keep porch lights and entryways well-lit at night
Use motion-sensor lighting or video camera doorbells
Lock all doors and windows, even during the day
Join or start a neighborhood watch
Coordinate with neighbors via apps like Nextdoor or Citizen
Report concerns quickly to APD online, or phone 512.472.TIPS (8477)

Neighborhood safety is strongest when residents work together and stay informed.

FOR YOU: TOP NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH APPS

How Guardian Protection Can Help

If you live in one of Austin, TX’s safer neighborhoods, you might not feel the same urgency around home security, but prevention is always better than reaction. Guardian Protection offers peace of mind that complements the environment you’ve chosen to live in.

Our smart home security options include:

Indoor and outdoor security cameras with live mobile access
Window and door sensors to detect intrusion
Smart home control and mobile app management to keep you informed when you’re away
24/7 professional monitoring for rapid response

Guardian Protection monitoring center specialists

Whether you live in central Austin or a nearby community, our systems are designed to fit your lifestyle and your neighborhood’s needs.

EXPLORE GUARDIAN’S SERVICES IN YOUR AREA: HOME SECURITY IN AUSTIN

Building Peace of Mind at Home

Choosing a safe neighborhood is a smart move, but true peace of mind comes from knowing your home is protected, no matter what. Guardian Protection offers home security solutions that fit seamlessly into low-crime, community-focused areas.

Looking to reinforce your sense of safety? Get a free quote or call 800.857.5028 to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the safest areas in and around Austin?

Areas such as Downtown Austin, East Cesar Chavez, and nearby communities like Round Rock are consistently ranked among the safest in and around Austin based on public crime data and community safety indicators.

Are Austin, TX suburbs safer than the city?

Many suburbs do report lower overall crime rates, compared to Austin’s urban core. However, several of the city’s neighborhoods, particularly those recognized for safety and community cohesiveness, are just as safe or even safer than some suburban areas.

What types of crime are most common in safer areas?

In neighborhoods with low crime rates, incidents typically involve occasional vehicle break-ins or minor vandalism. Violent crime is rare, but not impossible, so vigilance and community action remain important.

What makes neighborhoods like Downtown and East Cesar Chavez safe?

Their safety comes from a combination of factors: active neighborhood associations, high homeownership rates, good street lighting, proximity to parks and schools, and engaged residents who participate in watch programs and communicate effectively with local police.