Is Austin or Somerville Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Somerville is safer than Austin (Safety Score 43/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 1,920 per 100,000 versus 3,709 for Austin — 48% lower. Austin has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Somerville has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 12.0x 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
Somerville — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Somerville, MA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Somerville | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 1,920.1 | +1,789.3 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 221.4 | +246.1 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 0.0 | +6.6 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 15.9 | +51.7 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 24.5 | +61.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 181.0 | +126.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 1,698.8 | +1,543.1 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 289.9 | +155.3 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 1,279.3 | +918.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 129.6 | +469.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Somerville safer?
Somerville is safer with a total crime rate of 1,920 per 100K vs 3,709 for Austin — a 48% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Somerville has 221.4. Somerville 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 Somerville, MA
Somerville, MA, a densely populated city immediately north of Boston, is known for its vibrant arts scene and diverse neighborhoods. Historically home to many working-class immigrants, it's now a hub for young professionals and students. With a safety score of 43/100 and a population coverage of 81,766, Somerville has a total crime rate of 1,920.1 per 100,000 residents.