Is Austin or Medford Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Medford is safer than Austin (Safety Score 61/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 1,379 per 100,000 versus 3,709 for Austin — 63% lower. Austin has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Medford has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 16.5x 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
Medford — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Medford, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Medford | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 1,379.2 | +2,330.2 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 179.5 | +288.0 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 0.0 | +6.6 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 21.8 | +45.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 23.5 | +61.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 134.2 | +173.0 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 1,199.6 | +2,042.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 77.2 | +368.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 1,006.7 | +1,191.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 115.8 | +482.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Medford safer?
Medford is safer with a total crime rate of 1,379 per 100K vs 3,709 for Austin — a 63% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Medford has 179.5. Medford 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 Medford, MA
Medford, home to Tufts University, is a historic city just north of Boston. Situated along the Mystic River, it's a densely populated community with a rich past, including its shipbuilding heritage. With a safety score of 61/100 and a population coverage of 59,601, Medford has a total crime rate of 1,379.2 per 100,000 residents.