Is Austin or Columbus Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Columbus is safer than Austin (Safety Score 22/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 2,844 per 100,000 versus 3,709 for Austin — 23% lower. Austin has higher rates in 2 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Austin has a 49% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 4.9x 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
Columbus — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Columbus, GA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Columbus | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 2,843.9 | +865.5 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 608.3 | -140.8 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 12.9 | -6.3 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 25.4 | +42.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 50.7 | +34.7 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 514.8 | -207.5 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 2,235.6 | +1,006.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 353.6 | +91.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 1,635.8 | +562.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 246.2 | +352.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Columbus safer?
Columbus is safer with a total crime rate of 2,844 per 100K vs 3,709 for Austin — a 23% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Columbus has 608.3. Austin 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 Columbus, GA
Columbus, Georgia, a city on the Chattahoochee River, is home to Fort Moore, a major US Army installation. Its population of over 200,000 residents enjoys a vibrant arts scene and a rich industrial heritage. With a safety score of 22/100 and a population coverage of 201,061, Columbus has a total crime rate of 2,843.9 per 100,000 residents.