Is Austin or Las Cruces Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Austin is safer than Las Cruces (Safety Score 11/100 vs 3/100), with a total crime rate of 3,709 per 100,000 versus 5,594 for Las Cruces — 34% lower. Austin has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Austin has a 45% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 8.5x 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
Las Cruces — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Las Cruces, NM
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Las Cruces | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 5,594.2 | -1,884.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 720.8 | -253.3 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 12.1 | -5.5 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 57.8 | +9.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 57.8 | +27.6 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 592.4 | -285.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 4,873.4 | -1,631.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 737.2 | -292.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 3,442.9 | -1,244.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 693.2 | -94.6 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Las Cruces safer?
Austin is safer with a total crime rate of 3,709 per 100K vs 5,594 for Las Cruces — a 34% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Las Cruces has 720.8. 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 Las Cruces, NM
Nestled in the Chihuahuan Desert, Las Cruces is New Mexico's second-largest city, known for its vibrant Hatch chile industry. Home to New Mexico State University, it boasts a diverse population and a rich history influenced by Spanish and Mexican cultures. With a safety score of 3/100 and a population coverage of 115,977, Las Cruces has a total crime rate of 5,594.2 per 100,000 residents.