Is Austin or Iowa City Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Iowa City is safer than Austin (Safety Score 40/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 1,995 per 100,000 versus 3,709 for Austin — 46% lower. Austin has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Iowa City has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 13.0x 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
Iowa City — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Iowa City, IA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Iowa City | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 1,995.2 | +1,714.2 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 321.3 | +146.2 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 0.0 | +6.6 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 54.0 | +13.7 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 50.0 | +35.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 217.3 | +89.9 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 1,673.8 | +1,568.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 156.7 | +288.4 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 1,389.4 | +808.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 127.7 | +470.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Iowa City safer?
Iowa City is safer with a total crime rate of 1,995 per 100K vs 3,709 for Austin — a 46% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Iowa City has 321.3. Iowa City 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 Iowa City, IA
Iowa City, home to the University of Iowa and its renowned Writers' Workshop, sits along the Iowa River. This vibrant Midwestern city in Johnson County boasts a diverse population, including a significant student presence. With a safety score of 40/100 and a population coverage of 75,934, Iowa City has a total crime rate of 1,995.2 per 100,000 residents.