Is Austin or Colton Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Colton is safer than Austin (Safety Score 28/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 2,498 per 100,000 versus 3,709 for Austin — 33% lower. Austin has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in property crime, where Colton has a 35% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 18.5x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Austin — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Colton — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Colton, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Colton | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 2,498.5 | +1,210.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 393.2 | +74.3 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 5.6 | +1.0 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 22.6 | +45.1 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 105.4 | -20.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 259.6 | +47.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 2,105.2 | +1,136.6 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 301.0 | +144.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 1,418.6 | +779.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 385.7 | +212.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Colton safer?
Colton is safer with a total crime rate of 2,498 per 100K vs 3,709 for Austin — a 33% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Colton has 393.2. Colton has lower violent crime.
About Austin, TX
Austin, the "Live Music Capital of the World," is a rapidly growing city in Central Texas. Situated on the Colorado River, it's the state capital and home to a diverse population, including many young professionals drawn to its tech industry. With a safety score of 11/100 and a population coverage of 984,613, Austin has a total crime rate of 3,709.4 per 100,000 residents.
About Colton, CA
Colton, California, a historic railroad town, lies in the Inland Empire. It's home to the oldest operating McDonald's restaurant, a landmark reflecting its mid-20th century growth. The city is primarily a working-class community with a diverse population. With a safety score of 28/100 and a population coverage of 53,153, Colton has a total crime rate of 2,498.5 per 100,000 residents.