List of the Top 6 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Austin (2023)

Austin is often hailed as a beautiful place to live and explore, but like any city, there are areas of concern regarding crime. If you’re curious about which neighbourhoods in Austin have higher crime rates, keep reading to learn about the city’s six areas considered to be the most dangerous.

Is Austin Dangerous?

Austin is considered a safe city, with lower crime rates than other large American cities. The downtown and tourist districts of Austin are exceptionally safe and secure. By staying in these areas and avoiding the high-risk neighbourhoods, you can rest assured that your safety won’t be compromised.

In Austin, the chances of falling victim to a crime are 1 in 18, which concerns city residents. The most significant risk areas are typically located in the central and northern regions. People must know their surroundings and take precautions to stay safe in these neighbourhoods.

6 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Austin

1. Georgian Acres

Georgian Acres, a residential area located in north central Austin, has gained notoriety as the most dangerous neighbourhood in the city. With a population of 9,600, it has the highest crime rate in Austin, reaching 10,925 per 100,000 in 2022. Shockingly, this figure is 365% higher than the national average. It is a neighbourhood with a well-deserved bad reputation. However, some parts of Georgian Acres have undergone revitalization in recent years. Despite this, the median home price remains low, at just $90,800.

2. Montopolis

Montopolis, located in southeast Austin, has long been known as one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in the city. With a population of 12,211, it has a crime rate of 302% higher than the national average. Residents of Montopolis face a 1 in 11 chance of becoming the victim of any crime, making it an area that is best avoided.

3. Martin Luther King Highway 183

The Martin Luther King Highway 183 locality is among the most crime-prone neighbourhoods in Austin. With a population of 8,366, it has a staggering crime rate of 8,250 per 100,000. Shockingly, in 2022, the overall crime rate in this area was 252% higher than the national average. Known for its violent and property crime, this neighbourhood has been grappling with high poverty rates for years, with a median income of just $38,101.

4. Riverside

The neighbourhood of Riverside in Austin has gained a reputation for being unsafe due to its high crime rate of 8,283 per 100,000 people. This figure is a staggering 248% higher than the national average, making it one of the most dangerous areas in the city. Despite these statistics, Riverside is still a popular choice for those looking for affordable housing options and has become a growing community for families. While the area does have its fair share of crime, it is reassuring to know that violent crime is not a significant concern in Riverside. Instead, most of the crimes committed in this area are personal and car theft.

5. Johnston Terrace

Located in the eastern part of Austin, Johnston Terrace is a close-knit community with a population of 1,681 individuals. Unfortunately, the total crime rate in this area is alarmingly high, reaching 7,695 per 100,000. This figure is 228% higher than the national average, and residents are likely to be victims of a crime, especially theft and burglary. Despite the high crime rate, Johnston Terrace remains an attractive option for many middle-class families looking for affordable housing in Austin. However, it’s crucial always to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, as it’s considered one of the most dangerous places to live in Austin.

6. Saint Johns

Located in central Austin, Saint Johns is known as one of the most difficult neighbourhoods in the area. With a population of 9,414, the crime rate in Saint Johns is 156% higher than the national average, resulting in a total crime rate of 6,002. This means that residents of Saint Johns have a 1 in 17 chance of becoming a victim of any crime. Despite its reputation for being dangerous, Saint Johns is a working-class neighbourhood with a median home price of $149,120.

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List of the Top 6 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Austin (2023)

Is Austin Dangerous?