Is Austin or Lakewood Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Austin is safer than Lakewood (Safety Score 11/100 vs 7/100), with a total crime rate of 3,709 per 100,000 versus 4,270 for Lakewood — 13% lower. Austin has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Austin has a 35% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 15.9x 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
Lakewood — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Lakewood, WA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Lakewood | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 4,270.0 | -560.7 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 648.1 | -180.6 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 6.5 | +0.1 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 61.4 | +6.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 130.9 | -45.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 449.3 | -142.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 3,621.9 | -380.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 510.7 | -65.6 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 2,484.1 | -286.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 627.1 | -28.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Lakewood safer?
Austin is safer with a total crime rate of 3,709 per 100K vs 4,270 for Lakewood — a 13% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Lakewood has 648.1. 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 Lakewood, WA
Lakewood, WA, a city incorporated in 1996, sits between Tacoma and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Its diverse population, with a significant military presence, resides among lakes and historic estates like Thornewood Castle. With a safety score of 7/100 and a population coverage of 61,873, Lakewood has a total crime rate of 4,270.0 per 100,000 residents.