Is Austin or Huntington Beach Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Huntington Beach is safer than Austin (Safety Score 35/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 2,196 per 100,000 versus 3,709 for Austin — 41% lower. Austin has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Huntington Beach has a 60% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 5.2x 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
Huntington Beach — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Huntington Beach, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Huntington Beach | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 2,196.4 | +1,513.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 207.3 | +260.2 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 2.6 | +4.0 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 34.7 | +32.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 51.0 | +34.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 118.9 | +188.3 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 1,989.2 | +1,252.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 201.0 | +244.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 1,644.0 | +554.1 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 144.2 | +454.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Huntington Beach safer?
Huntington Beach is safer with a total crime rate of 2,196 per 100K vs 3,709 for Austin — a 41% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Huntington Beach has 207.3. Huntington Beach 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 Huntington Beach, CA
Huntington Beach, "Surf City, USA," stretches along the Pacific, a vibrant Orange County city with a significant tourist draw. Its lengthy pier and consistent waves attract a youthful, active population. With a safety score of 35/100 and a population coverage of 190,081, Huntington Beach has a total crime rate of 2,196.4 per 100,000 residents.