Is Austin or Missoula Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Austin is safer than Missoula (Safety Score 11/100 vs 7/100), with a total crime rate of 3,709 per 100,000 versus 4,226 for Missoula — 12% lower. Austin has higher rates in 3 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Missoula has a 62% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 12.5x 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
Missoula — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Missoula, MT
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Missoula | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 4,226.3 | -516.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 596.9 | -129.4 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 2.5 | +4.1 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 106.5 | -38.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 45.6 | +39.8 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 442.3 | -135.0 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 3,629.4 | -387.5 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 323.2 | +122.0 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 3,108.6 | -910.5 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 197.7 | +400.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Missoula safer?
Austin is safer with a total crime rate of 3,709 per 100K vs 4,226 for Missoula — a 12% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Missoula has 596.9. 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 Missoula, MT
Missoula, a vibrant university town in western Montana, is nestled in the Rocky Mountains at the confluence of three rivers. Home to the University of Montana, it boasts a youthful population and a strong appreciation for outdoor recreation and arts. With a safety score of 7/100 and a population coverage of 78,911, Missoula has a total crime rate of 4,226.3 per 100,000 residents.