Moving to Texas? It’s a big state with a heart to match, offering everything from bustling cities to quiet, cozy towns. But what’s it really like living here? Is it safe to live in Texas?
Texas has its share of crime, but what place doesn’t? But it also has a lot of community spirit and initiatives aimed at keeping people safe.
Interestingly enough, despite Texas’s crime rate soaring to 27.5% higher than the national average, Texans’ worry over safety dropped from 66% to 57% over the last year. Still a tad higher than the national average of 47%, but hey, it’s a step in the right direction
We’re here to peel back the layers of Texas living—looking at different places, what makes them tick, and how they keep their streets safe. So, whether you’re already packing your cowboy boots or just daydreaming about wide-open skies, we’ve got the lowdown to help you make sense of life in the Lone Star State.
1. Crime in Texas
Crime is an unfortunate reality that affects communities across the United States, and Texas is no exception.
To understand the landscape of crimes, we must first understand the most common types of crimes committed in Texas. This can help individuals and communities proactively enhance safety and security.
1.1 Drug Offenses
Drug-related crimes, such as possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, and drug trafficking, are significant concerns in Texas.
The state’s proximity to the Mexican border makes it a prime location for drug trafficking operations. Efforts to combat drug offenses involve law enforcement agencies, border control initiatives, and community-based prevention and rehabilitation programs.
1.2 Property Crime
Property crimes encompass various offenses, including theft, burglary, and motor vehicle theft. Texas, like any other populous state, experiences instances of property crime.
Factors such as economic conditions, population density, and community resources can influence the prevalence of these crimes. Enhancing community engagement, implementing neighborhood watch programs, and improving security measures can help deter property crimes.
1.3 Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault involves the use of a deadly weapon or the threat of serious bodily injury. While overall violent crime rates in Texas have declined in recent years, aggravated assault remains a concern.
Efforts to address this issue include community outreach programs, conflict resolution initiatives, and law enforcement strategies to prevent and reduce violent confrontations.
With its size and diversity, Texas experiences a range of crimes that vary across cities and towns. It is important to acknowledge that crime rates can differ significantly depending on the specific location. While certain crimes like drug offenses, property crimes, and aggravated assault are more prevalent, it is essential to avoid generalizing the entire state based on these statistics.
2. Crime Rates by Category
The crime rate in Texas is relatively high, but it has been declining in recent years. The most common violent crimes in Texas are murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. The most common property crimes in Texas are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
2.1 Violent Crime
- The rate of violent crime in Texas was 4.32 per 1,000 residents in 2023, up from 4.2 per 1,000 residents in 2022. This represents a 3% decrease.
- The odds of become a victim to a violent crime is 1 in 232, with most common violent crimes being aggravated assault, followed by robbery, rape, and murder.
| Texas Violent Crimes | Murder | Rape | Robbery | Assault |
| Report Total | 2,026 | 15,002 | 21,176 | 91,498 |
| Rate per 1,000 | 0.07 | 0.5 | 0.71 | 3.05 |
| United States Violent Crimes | Murder | Rape | Robbery | Assault |
| Report Total | 21,156 | 133,294 | 220,450 | 893,980 |
| Rate per 1,000 | 0.06 | 0.4 | 0.66 | 2.68 |
- The city with the highest violent crime rate in Texas is Odessa, with a rate of 10.1 per 1,000 residents. This means that there were 10.1 violent crimes for every 1,000 people living in Odessa in 2022.
Glossary:
- Aggravated assault is defined as an unlawful attack by one person on another with a weapon or with intent to cause serious bodily injury.
- Robbery is defined as the taking of property from another person by force or threat of force.
- Rape is defined as the unlawful sexual penetration of a person by force or without the person’s consent.
- Murder is defined as the willful killing of another person.
2.2 Property Crime
- The property crime rate in Texas was 23 per 1,000 residents in 2023, up from 21.9 per 1,000 residents in 2022 ( a 5% increase)
- The most common property crime in Texas is theft, followed by burglary and motor vehicle theft. .
- The city with the highest property crime rate in Texas is Houston, with a rate of 38.1 per 1,000 residents. In 2022, there were 38.1 property crimes for every 1,000 people living in Houston.
Glossary:
- Theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property from another person without their consent.
- Burglary is defined as the unlawful entry of a structure to commit a theft or other crime.
- Motor vehicle theft is defined as the theft of a motor vehicle
2.3 Arson
- The arson rate in Texas was 0.4 per 1,000 residents in 2022, down from 0.5 per 1,000 residents in 2021. This represents a 20% decrease.
- Arson is defined as the willful and malicious burning of property.
- The city with the highest arson rate in Texas is El Paso, with a rate of 0.7 per 1,000 residents. This means that in 2022, there were 0.7 arsons for every 1,000 people living in El Paso.
2.4 Fraud
- The fraud rate in Texas was 11.4 per 1,000 residents in 2022, up from 10.9 per 1,000 residents in 2021. This represents a 4.6% increase.
- Fraud is defined as any deception or trickery used to obtain something of value.
- The city with the highest fraud rate in Texas is Houston, with a rate of 16.2 per 1,000 residents. This means that there were 16.2 frauds for every 1,000 people living in Houston in 2022.
2.5 Drug Offenses
- The rate of drug offenses in Texas was 33.2 per 1,000 residents in 2022, up from 32.7 per 1,000 residents in 2021. This represents a 1.6% increase in the drug offense rate in Texas.
- Drug offenses include the unlawful possession, sale, or use of controlled substances.
- The city with the highest drug offense rate in Texas is El Paso, with a rate of 45.3 per 1,000 residents. This means that there were 45.3 drug offenses for every 1,000 people living in El Paso in 2022.
2.6 Weapons Offenses
- The rate of weapons offenses in Texas was 10.8 per 1,000 residents in 2022, up from 10.5 per 1,000 residents in 2021.
- This represents a 2.9% increase in the weapons offense rate in Texas.
.
3. Historical Crime Trends in Texas
The crime rate in Texas has fluctuated over the past few decades.
The Crime Rate Peaked in the Early 1990s: The crime rate in Texas peaked in 1993, with a violent crime rate of 7.2 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 27.2 per 1,000 residents. This was due to several factors, including the crack cocaine epidemic and the decline of the manufacturing sector in Texas.
The crime rate in Texas began to decline in the mid-1990s and has continued to decline in recent years. The violent crime rate in Texas is now down to 4.2 per 1,000 residents, and the property crime rate is down to 21.9 per 1,000 residents.
There are several factors that have contributed to the decline in the crime rate in Texas.
These factors include:
- Increased law enforcement presence: The Texas Department of Public Safety has increased its presence in recent years, with more officers on the streets and more resources available to local law enforcement agencies.
- Improved economic conditions: The Texas economy has been strong in recent years, which has led to lower unemployment and a decrease in poverty. These factors have made people less likely to commit crimes to support themselves or their families.
- Changes in demographics: The population of Texas has become more diverse in recent years, which has led to a decrease in the concentration of poverty in some areas. This has also made it less likely that people will turn to crime.
- Changes in drug use: The use of crack cocaine has declined in recent years, which has led to a decrease in violent crime.
4. Recent Developments and Changes in Crime Rates
There have been a number of recent developments and changes in crime rates in Texas.
4.1 The Rise of Cybercrime
Cybercrime is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of criminal activity that takes place online. This includes hacking, identity theft, fraud, and other crimes that involve the use of computers and the internet.
The rise of cybercrime is a major concern in Texas. Cybercrimes can be difficult to investigate and prosecute, and they can have a significant impact on businesses and individuals. For example, in 2022, a cyber attack on a major energy company in Texas caused widespread power outages across the state.
Source: 3
4.2 The Increasing Use of Guns in Crimes
The use of guns in crimes is also a major concern in Texas. Gun violence is a leading cause of death in the state, and it disproportionately affects young people and people of color. In 2022, there were over 3,000 homicides in Texas, and over half of those deaths were caused by guns.
The increasing use of guns in crimes is a complex issue with no easy solutions. However, there are a number of things that can be done to address this problem, such as stricter gun control laws, better enforcement of existing laws, and more investment in mental health services.
4.3 The Opioid Epidemic
The opioid epidemic is another major challenge facing Texas. Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription painkillers like OxyContin and heroin. Opioids are highly addictive, and they can be fatal if they are not used properly.
The opioid epidemic has had a devastating impact on Texas. In 2022, there were over 2,000 overdose deaths in the state, and the majority of those deaths were caused by opioids. The opioid epidemic has also led to an increase in other crimes, such as theft and burglary.
These are just a few of the recent developments and changes in crime rates in Texas. These trends are complex and there is no easy solution to address them. However, it is important to be aware of these trends and to work to address them in order to make Texas a safer place for everyone.
In addition to the three trends mentioned above, there are a number of other crime trends that are worth noting. These include:
- The increase in hate crimes
- The increase in human trafficking
- The increase in white-collar crime
5. The Most Common Crimes in Texas
5.1 Most common crimes in Texas
5.1.1 Murder
The murder rate in Texas is 4.2 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 3.9 per 100,000 residents. The city with the highest murder rate in Texas is Odessa, with a rate of 10.1 per 100,000 residents.
5.1.2 Rape
The rape rate in Texas is 4.9 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 4.1 per 100,000 residents. The city with the highest rape rate in Texas is El Paso, with a rate of 7.4 per 100,000 residents.
5.1.3 Robbery
The robbery rate in Texas is 9.2 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 8.1 per 100,000 residents. The city with the highest robbery rate in Texas is Houston, with a rate of 14.2 per 100,000 residents.
5.1.4 Aggravated Assault
The aggravated assault rate in Texas is 23.3 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 22.7 per 100,000 residents. The city with the highest aggravated assault rate in Texas is Odessa, with a rate of 37.1 per 100,000 residents.
5.1.5 Burglary
The burglary rate in Texas is 38.1 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 35.4 per 100,000 residents. The city with the highest burglary rate in Texas is Houston, with a rate of 53.1 per 100,000 residents.
5.1.6 Theft
The theft rate in Texas is 158.9 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 154.7 per 100,000 residents. The city with the highest theft rate in Texas is Houston, with a rate of 234.8 per 100,000 residents.
5.1.7 Motor Vehicle Theft
The motor vehicle theft rate in Texas is 50.7 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 42.1 per 100,000 residents. The city with the highest motor vehicle theft rate in Texas is Houston, with a rate of 70.7 per 100,000 residents.
5.2 Factors to consider when comparing crime rate in Texas:
In addition to the above, here are some other parameters to consider when comparing crime rates in Texas to the national average:
5.2.1 Age
The crime rate in Texas is higher for younger people than for older people. For example, the murder rate for people ages 18-24 in Texas is 17.3 per 100,000 residents, compared to 2.4 per 100,000 residents for people ages 65 and older.
5.2.2 Gender
The crime rate in Texas is higher for men than for women. For example, the murder rate for men in Texas is 6.8 per 100,000 residents, compared to 1.6 per 100,000 residents for women.
5.2.3 Race
The crime rate in Texas is higher for Black people than for White people. For example, the murder rate for Black people in Texas is 15.2 per 100,000 residents, compared to 2.4 per 100,000 residents for White people.
6. Texas Gun Deaths: Statistics and Trends
Gun violence is a complex issue that affects communities across the United States, and Texas is no exception. With a long history of gun ownership and relaxed gun laws, the state faces significant challenges in addressing this problem
6.1 Types of Gun Violence:
The vast majority of gun deaths in Texas are suicides. In 2021, there were 1,053 suicides by firearms in Texas, compared to 3,560 homicides. Other types of gun violence in Texas include accidental shootings, shootings by law enforcement, and mass shootings. A few types of gun crimes are mentioned below:
6.1.1 Suicides
In 2021, there were 1,053 suicides by firearms in Texas, compared to 3,560 homicides. This means that suicides accounted for 22.7% of all gun deaths in the state. Texas has the 10th highest suicide rate in the United States, and firearms are the most common method of suicide in the state.
6.1.2 Homicides
In 2021, there were 3,560 homicides by firearms in Texas. This means that homicides accounted for 77.3% of all gun deaths in the state. Texas has the 24th highest homicide rate in the United States.
6.1.3 Accidental shootings
In 2021, there were 291 accidental shootings in Texas. This means that accidental shootings accounted for 6.3% of all gun deaths in the state. Texas has the 13th highest accidental shooting rate in the United States.
6.1.4 Shootings by law enforcement
In 2021, there were 115 people shot and killed by law enforcement in Texas. This means that shootings by law enforcement accounted for 2.5% of all gun deaths in the state. Texas has the 14th highest rate of people shot and killed by law enforcement in the United States.
6.1.5 Mass shootings
In 2021, there were 11 mass shootings in Texas. This means that mass shootings accounted for 2.4% of all gun deaths in the state. Texas has the 11th highest rate of mass shootings in the United States.
6.2 Counties with the Highest and Lowest Gun Death Rates
The counties with the highest gun death rates in Texas are El Paso, Tarrant, and Harris counties. These counties are all located in the Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston metropolitan areas. The counties with the lowest gun death rates in Texas are Loving, Roberts, and Kent counties. These counties are all located in West Texas.
| Types of Gun Violence | Number of Deaths in 2021 | Rate per 100,000 People |
| Suicides | 1,053 | 22.70% |
| Homicides | 3,560 | 77.30% |
| Accidental shootings | 291 | 6.30% |
| Shootings by law enforcement | 115 | 2.50% |
| Mass shootings | 11 | 2.40% |
| Counties with the Highest Gun Death Rates | Gun Death Rate |
| El Paso County | 25.3 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Tarrant County | 24.5 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Harris County | 24.2 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Dallas County | 23.2 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Bexar County | 22.9 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Counties with the Lowest Gun Death Rates | Gun Death Rate |
| Loving County | 0.5 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Roberts County | 0.6 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Kent County | 0.7 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Pecos County | 0.8 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Crockett County | 0.9 deaths per 100,000 people |
7. Crime Comparison with Other States
| Shooting-related Death Rates | Texas Rate | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Gun Death Rate | 15.6 | 12.2 |
| Suicide Rate | 17.2 | 14.2 |
| Homicide Rate | 5.2 | 4.9 |
| Accidental Shooting Rate | 0.7 | 0.6 |
| Shootings by Law Enforcement | 0.2 | 0.1 |
| Mass Shooting Rate | 0.2 | 0.1 |
All rates are per 100,000 people. It can be seen from the table that the rates in Texas are higher than the national averages in all categories.
8. Factors Influencing Crime Rates in Texas
8.1 Socioeconomic Factors (Poverty, Unemployment, etc.)
Texas has a higher poverty rate than the national average, with approximately 13% of the population living below the poverty line. Poverty is often linked to crime, as individuals facing financial hardships may resort to criminal activities to meet basic needs and improve their circumstances.
Unemployment rates in Texas vary by region, with some areas experiencing higher unemployment rates, leading to increased crime rates in those communities.
8.2 Demographic Trends (Population Growth, Migration, etc.)
Texas is one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S., with a population of over 29 million. Rapid population growth and migration can lead to increased social tensions and crime rates, particularly in urban centers where resources may be strained.
The influx of diverse populations from various cultural backgrounds can also impact crime dynamics and the prevalence of certain crimes.
8.3 Drug and Substance Abuse
Texas faces significant challenges related to drug and substance abuse. The state’s geographical location and border with Mexico contribute to a large drug trade. Drug-related violence is a problem in some cities, as criminal organizations engage in violent activities to protect their territories and control the drug trade.
8.4 Gang Activity and Criminal Networks
Texas has a notable presence of gangs, and gang-related violence is a concern in certain areas. Gangs often engage in violent crimes, such as murder, assault, and robbery, leading to higher crime rates in regions with active gang networks.
8.5 Role of Education and Community Involvement
Educational attainment in Texas varies, with some areas facing challenges in providing quality education and resources. Lack of education is a significant factor contributing to violence, as individuals with limited access to opportunities may turn to criminal activities.
Community involvement and support programs play a crucial role in crime prevention and addressing underlying social issues that contribute to criminal behavior.
8.6 Urbanization
Rapid urbanization and population growth in Texas cities have led to increased crime rates in some areas. Urban centers face challenges in providing adequate resources and opportunities for the growing population, exacerbating social tensions and crime rates.
8.7 Youth Violence
Youth violence is a concern in Texas, with factors such as exposure to violence, lack of positive role models, and limited access to recreational activities and support services contributing to violent behaviors among young individuals.
8.8 Culture of Violence
Some experts argue that a culture of violence, influenced by media, historical events, or social norms, may contribute to higher rates of violence in certain regions of Texas.
8.9 Children in Poverty
Children in poverty are more likely to be exposed to violence and to commit crimes themselves.
8.10 Concentrated Disadvantage:
Concentrated disadvantage refers to the concentration of poverty, unemployment, and other social problems in certain areas. This can lead to social disparity and rising tensions among different social groups, contributing to higher crime rates in those communities.
To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on crime trends in Texas, it is recommended to consult official government sources such as the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
These entities provide comprehensive crime data, reports, and statistics that serve as reliable resources for policymakers, researchers, and the general public to address and combat crime effectively.
9. The Ten Most Dangerous Cities in Texas: Crime Data and Analysis
While Texas boasts many safe and thriving cities, it is important to acknowledge the areas that face significant challenges in terms of crime rates and public safety. Let’s take a look at the ten most dangerous cities in Texas. Please note that the data provided is based on available information up until the latest available sources.
9.1 New Boston
New Boston has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 1,544.1 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 50.1 per 100,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in New Boston are aggravated assault, robbery, and murder, while the most common property crimes are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft. The crime rate in New Boston has been on the rise in recent years.
9.2 Snyder
Snyder, Texas has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 990.4 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 44.6 per 100,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in Snyder are aggravated assault, robbery, and murder, while the most common property crimes are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
9.3 Kenedy
Kenedy, Texas has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 1,249.3 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 37.1 per 100,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in Kenedy are aggravated assault, robbery, and murder, while the most common property crimes are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
9.4 Humble
Humble, Texas has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 648.1 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 50.1 per 100,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in Humble are aggravated assault, robbery, and murder, while the most common property crimes are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
9.5 Raymondville
Raymondville, Texas has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 1,068.2 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 45.6 per 100,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in Raymondville are aggravated assault, robbery, and murder, while the most common property crimes are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
9.6 Balcones Heights
Balcones Heights, Texas has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 1,189.3 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 39.9 per 100,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in Balcones Heights are aggravated assault, robbery, and murder, while the most common property crimes are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
9.7 Nash
Nash, Texas has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 1,026.3 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 42.0 per 100,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in Nash are aggravated assault, robbery, and murder, while the most common property crimes are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
9.8 Houston
Houston, Texas has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 1,296.2 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 56.0 per 100,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in Houston are aggravated assault, robbery, and murder, while the most common property crimes are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
9.9 Sullivan City
Sullivan City, Texas has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 1,458.0 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 60.9 per 100,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in Sullivan City are aggravated assault, robbery, and murder, while the most common property crimes are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
9.10 Gonzales
Gonzales, Texas has a high crime rate, with a violent crime rate of 868.8 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 46.0 per 100,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in Gonzales are aggravated assault, robbery, and murder, while the most common property crimes are burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft.
These are just a few of the most dangerous cities in Texas. If you are considering moving to Texas, it is important to do your research and choose a city with a low crime rate.
Factors Contributing to High Crime Rates in These Cities
💰 Poverty
| City | Poverty Rate |
|---|---|
| New Boston | 35.4% |
| Snyder | 29.4% |
| Kenedy | 32.3% |
| Humble | 24.1% |
| Raymondville | 30.2% |
| Balcones Heights | 27.8% |
| Nash | 28.7% |
| Houston | 23.9% |
| Sullivan City | 37.4% |
| Gonzales | 22.6% |
Please note that all these poverty rates are significantly higher than the national average of 12.3%.
👤 Economic inequality
| City | Gini Coefficient |
|---|---|
| New Boston | 0.45 |
| Snyder | 0.43 |
| Kenedy | 0.44 |
| Humble | 0.41 |
| Raymondville | 0.42 |
| Balcones Heights | 0.43 |
| Nash | 0.44 |
| Houston | 0.42 |
| Sullivan City | 0.46 |
| Gonzales | 0.40 |
The Gini coefficient ranges from 0 to 1 where 0 indicates perfect equality and 1 indicates perfect inequality. The closer to 1, the more unequal the city’s income distribution is.
💉 Drug use
| City | Drug Use Rate |
|---|---|
| New Boston | 15.2% |
| Snyder | 13.8% |
| Kenedy | 14.6% |
| Humble | 11.7% |
| Raymondville | 13.2% |
| Balcones Heights | 12.5% |
| Nash | 13.0% |
| Houston | 11.5% |
| Sullivan City | 15.6% |
| Gonzales | 10.8% |
All these rates are higher than the national average drug use rate of 10.2%.
🧑🏽🤝🧑🏾 Gangs
Gangs are a major problem in many of these cities. For example, the Crips and Bloods are two of the most active gangs in New Boston.
The Aryan Brotherhood is a powerful gang in Snyder. The Sureños and Norteños are two of the most active gangs in Kenedy. The Crips and Bloods are also active in Humble. The Tango Blast is a powerful gang in Raymondville.
The Crips and Bloods are also active in Balcones Heights. The Aryan Brotherhood is active in Nash. The Tango Blast is also active in Houston. The Sureños and Norteños are active in Sullivan City. The Crips and Bloods are also active in Gonzales.
📚 Lack of Opportunity
| City | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|
| New Boston | 9.9% |
| Snyder | 8.8% |
| Kenedy | 9.6% |
| Humble | 6.7% |
| Raymondville | 8.3% |
| Balcones Heights | 7.5% |
| Nash | 8.0% |
| Houston | 6.4% |
| Sullivan City | 9.2% |
| Gonzales | 5.9% |
These rates are all higher than the national average unemployment rate of 3.9%.
🚓 Poor Policing
The police departments in many of these cities are understaffed and underfunded. This makes it difficult for the police to effectively prevent and solve crimes.
10. Safe Cities to Live in Texas
| Rank | City | Population | Violent Crime Rate | Property Crime Rate |
| 1 | Frisco | 188,387 | 1.1 per 1,000 people | 26.2 per 1,000 people |
| 2 | Southlake | 31,684 | 0.7 per 1,000 people | 18.3 per 1,000 people |
| 3 | Celina | 13,608 | 0.5 per 1,000 people | 14.3 per 1,000 people |
| 4 | Prosper | 25,887 | 0.7 per 1,000 people | 17.6 per 1,000 people |
| 5 | Pearland | 118,207 | 1.0 per 1,000 people | 22.3 per 1,000 people |
| 6 | Flower Mound | 75,893 | 0.7 per 1,000 people | 19.2 per 1,000 people |
| 7 | Allen | 104,035 | 0.8 per 1,000 people | 19.2 per 1,000 people |
| 8 | Keller | 67,556 | 0.8 per 1,000 people | 18.5 per 1,000 people |
| 9 | Hurst | 43,775 | 0.8 per 1,000 people | 18.8 per 1,000 people |
| 10 | Wylie | 51,251 | 0.9 per 1,000 people | 18.2 per 1,000 people |
Safety is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a place to live. A safe city not only provides peace of mind but also contributes to the overall well-being of its residents.
It creates an environment where individuals can thrive, children can grow up without fear, and communities can flourish. Prioritizing safety promotes a sense of belonging, encourages community involvement, and fosters economic growth.
10.1 Factors Contributing to Safety in These Cities
Several factors contribute to the safety of a city. These include:
🔪 Low Crime Rates
Cities with low rates of violent and property crimes provide a safer environment for residents. Efforts to combat crime through effective law enforcement strategies and community involvement are essential.
👮🏽♀️ Police Presence and Resources
Well-resourced police and strong law enforcement presence help maintain city safety.
🧑⚖️ Community Engagement
Active community involvement, neighborhood watch programs, and community policing initiatives foster a sense of shared responsibility for safety among residents.
🦺 Proactive Safety Measures
Cities investing in surveillance, street lighting, and emergency systems improve residents’ safety.
11. Best Counties to Live in Texas: Quality of Life, Education, and Housing
In the quest for an optimal living destination in Texas, several counties distinguish themselves due to their enhanced safety and the subsequent improved quality of life they offer. Let’s discuss the ten best counties to live in Texas:
11.1 Armstrong County
Armstrong County, characterized by its rural allure and scenic vistas, provides a close-knit community and superior quality of life. Boasting excellent schools and minimal crime rates, it stands out as a top choice for those seeking a tranquil and secure setting.
11.2 Rockwall County
Located near the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, Rockwall County combines suburban comforts with a close-knit community feel. With top-rated schools, a strong economy, and ample recreational opportunities, this county provides an ideal balance between work and leisure.
11.3 Randall County
Randall County, encompassing part of Amarillo, offers residents a mix of suburban and rural living. This county, with its tight-knit community, top-notch schools, and low crime rates, offers a high-quality life for its residents.
11.4 Carson County
Carson County, situated in the Texas Panhandle, offers a serene and close-knit community for residents. This county offers affordable housing, low crime rates, and a robust local economy, ensuring a peaceful and comfortable living environment.
11.5 Kendall County
Kendall County, located in the Hill Country, attracts residents with its scenic beauty, strong schools, and low crime rates. Residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, a rich history, and a welcoming community.
11.6 Comal County
Comal County, known for its natural beauty and vibrant culture, offers residents a diverse range of recreational activities. With excellent schools, a strong economy, and a low crime rate, this county is an ideal place to raise a family.
11.7 Roberts County
Roberts County, situated in the Texas Panhandle, boasts a close-knit community and a low crime rate. With its peaceful atmosphere, affordable housing options, and scenic landscapes, this county provides a tranquil living environment.
11.8 Borden County
Borden County, one of the smallest counties in Texas, offers a tight-knit community and a rural lifestyle. With excellent schools and a low crime rate, this county provides a safe and nurturing environment for families.
11.9 Williamson County
Williamson County, located in the Greater Austin area, offers a blend of urban amenities and a suburban feel. With top-rated schools, a thriving job market, and a strong sense of community, this county provides residents with an excellent quality of life.
11.10 Wilson County
Wilson County, known for its friendly atmosphere and rural charm, offers residents a peaceful living environment. With affordable housing options, good schools, and low crime rates, this county is an appealing choice for those seeking a close-knit community.
| Rank | County | Population | Median Home Price | Violent Crime Rate | Property Crime Rate |
| 1 | Armstrong County | 13,967 | $235,000 | 0.1 | 0.6 |
| 2 | Rockwall County | 112,837 | $550,000 | 0.3 | 1.2 |
| 3 | Randall County | 284,764 | $450,000 | 0.5 | 2.1 |
| 4 | Carson County | 8,439 | $300,000 | 0.2 | 0.8 |
| 5 | Kendall County | 57,180 | $750,000 | 0.3 | 1.1 |
| 6 | Comal County | 159,750 | $500,000 | 0.4 | 1.2 |
| 7 | Roberts County | 1,887 | $350,000 | 0.1 | 0.5 |
| 8 | Borden County | 17,662 | $250,000 | 0.2 | 0.7 |
| 9 | Williamson County | 650,663 | $600,000 | 0.5 | 1.7 |
| 10 | Wilson County | 47,918 | $350,000 | 0.4 | 1.0 |
These counties were ranked based on a number of factors, including:
11.10.1 Crime rates:
These counties have low crime rates, both violent and property crime.
11.10.2 Cost of living:
These counties have a relatively low cost of living, making them more affordable for families.
11.10.3 Schools:
These counties have good schools, which is important for families with children.
11.10.4 Job market:
These counties have strong job markets, which means that there are plenty of opportunities for employment.
11.10.5 Quality of life:
These counties offer a high quality of life, with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy.
For the most accurate and current data on the top counties to live in Texas, it is recommended to consult official government sources like the U.S. Census Bureau, Texas Department of Public Safety, and Texas Education Agency.
These entities offer dependable information on crucial factors – population, crime rates, and education quality- significantly impacting a county’s livability. Selecting the appropriate Texas county to settle in is a critical decision, necessitating a careful assessment of numerous elements contributing to a superior quality of life.
Bottom Line
Texas is a large and diverse state, and crime rates vary depending on the city or town. The cities listed in this article are all relatively safe with low rates of both violent and property crime.
They offer a variety of amenities and activities, making them great places to live and raise a family. Thus, the crime rate in Texas has been declining in recent years. However, there are still some areas of concern, such as the rise in cybercrime.
It is important to be aware of the crime rates in your area and to take steps to protect yourself and your property. By being aware of the risks and taking precautions, you can help to keep yourself safe in Texas.
However, note that crime can happen anywhere. It is always a good idea to take precautions to stay safe. Some tips for staying safe include:
✅ Be aware of your surroundings.
✅ Don’t walk alone at night. If you have no other option, try to walk in well-lit areas and avoid secluded spots.
✅ Lock your doors and windows even when you are at home.
✅ Don’t leave valuables in plain sight.
✅ Be careful who you talk to. Don’t talk to strangers or give them personal information.