Is Austin or Norfolk Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Austin is safer than Norfolk (Safety Score 11/100 vs 7/100), with a total crime rate of 3,709 per 100,000 versus 4,242 for Norfolk — 13% lower. Austin has lower rates in 4 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Austin has a 59% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 4.3x 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
Norfolk — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Norfolk, VA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Norfolk | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 4,242.0 | -532.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 469.5 | -2.0 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 16.1 | -9.5 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 40.4 | +27.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 77.2 | +8.2 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 335.9 | -28.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 3,772.5 | -530.6 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 254.3 | +190.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 3,122.9 | -924.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 395.3 | +203.3 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Norfolk safer?
Austin is safer with a total crime rate of 3,709 per 100K vs 4,242 for Norfolk — a 13% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Norfolk has 469.5. 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 Norfolk, VA
Norfolk, a historic port city in Southeast Virginia, is home to the world's largest naval base. Its waterfront location at the mouth of the Elizabeth River shapes its identity and economy, drawing a diverse population. With a safety score of 7/100 and a population coverage of 230,460, Norfolk has a total crime rate of 4,242.0 per 100,000 residents.