Is Austin or Harker Heights Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Harker Heights is safer than Austin (Safety Score 69/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 1,125 per 100,000 versus 3,709 for Austin — 70% lower. Austin has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Harker Heights has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 28.2x 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
Harker Heights — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Harker Heights, TX
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Harker Heights | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 1,124.6 | +2,584.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 134.8 | +332.7 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 0.0 | +6.6 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 43.0 | +24.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 14.3 | +71.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 77.5 | +229.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 989.7 | +2,252.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 180.7 | +264.4 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 722.9 | +1,475.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 86.1 | +512.6 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Harker Heights safer?
Harker Heights is safer with a total crime rate of 1,125 per 100K vs 3,709 for Austin — a 70% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Harker Heights has 134.8. Harker Heights 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 Harker Heights, TX
Harker Heights, a central Texas city, grew around Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos), influencing its diverse, military-affiliated population. Situated in Bell County, it offers a mix of residential areas and commercial development. With a safety score of 69/100 and a population coverage of 34,858, Harker Heights has a total crime rate of 1,124.6 per 100,000 residents.