Is Austin or Reading Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Reading is safer than Austin (Safety Score 47/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 1,773 per 100,000 versus 3,709 for Austin — 52% lower. Austin has higher rates in 2 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in property crime, where Reading has a 56% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 10.1x 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
Reading — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Reading, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Reading | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 1,772.8 | +1,936.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 338.2 | +129.3 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 7.2 | -0.6 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 34.7 | +32.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 100.1 | -14.7 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 195.2 | +112.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 1,434.6 | +1,807.3 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 233.0 | +212.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 973.8 | +1,224.4 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 227.9 | +370.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Reading safer?
Reading is safer with a total crime rate of 1,773 per 100K vs 3,709 for Austin — a 52% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Reading has 338.2. Reading 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 Reading, PA
Reading, a city in southeastern Pennsylvania, is known for its historic Pagoda overlooking the city. Once a major railroad hub, it now has a diverse population with a significant Hispanic community. With a safety score of 47/100 and a population coverage of 97,868, Reading has a total crime rate of 1,772.8 per 100,000 residents.