Is Austin or San Diego Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, San Diego is safer than Austin (Safety Score 38/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 2,082 per 100,000 versus 3,709 for Austin — 44% lower. Austin has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where San Diego has a 62% lower rate.
Austin — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
San Diego — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
San Diego, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | San Diego | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 2,082.4 | +1,627.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 412.4 | +55.1 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 2.5 | +4.1 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 21.4 | +46.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 77.4 | +8.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 310.9 | -3.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 1,670.0 | +1,571.9 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 187.4 | +257.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 1,087.1 | +1,111.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 395.5 | +203.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or San Diego safer?
San Diego is safer with a total crime rate of 2,082 per 100K vs 3,709 for Austin — a 44% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while San Diego has 412.4. San Diego 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 San Diego, CA
San Diego, California, a major port city with a significant Hispanic population, sits on the Pacific Ocean just north of the Mexican border. Known for its mild climate and Balboa Park, it's also home to a large naval presence. With a safety score of 38/100 and a population coverage of 1,389,024, San Diego has a total crime rate of 2,082.4 per 100,000 residents.