Austin’s 9 Safest Neighborhoods Ranked by Crime & Rent Prices 2025

Austin’s safest neighborhoods—Circle C Ranch, Tarrytown, Barton Hills, Mueller, Allandale, West University, Steiner Ranch, Rollingwood, and Hyde Park—stand out for their low crime rates, livability, and consistent rental value across a range of budgets.

The city’s explosive growth in 2025 has also intensified the search for affordable Austin neighborhoods that offer both safety and affordability, especially for renters navigating a competitive market.

To help, we’ve created a data-driven guide to the safest neighborhoods in Austin 2025. We’ve blended verified crime statistics with current Apartment List rent prices, school performance, walkability, and public lighting data.

How we ranked Austin’s safest neighborhoods

To determine the safest neighborhoods in Austin 2025, we used a transparent, data-driven methodology that combines multiple public and proprietary datasets. Each neighborhood’s score reflects a weighted blend of five core factors: violent and property crime rates, Apartment List rent data, public school ratings, walkability scores, and streetlight density.

We normalized each metric to account for population size and geographic scale, then applied a composite scoring formula to rank neighborhoods relative to one another. The result: a list of areas where safety, livability, and rental value consistently align to help renters make informed choices based on real, current data.

This approach ensures every recommendation is backed by verifiable sources and consistent methodology, not just reputation or perception.

Data Sources and Crime-Rate Formula

To evaluate safe Austin neighborhoods, we used multiple trusted sources and applied a consistent scoring method based on both severity and frequency of reported incidents.

Crime Data Sources

We relied on the following publicly available crime databases:

• Austin Police Department (APD) Open Data Portal
• FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program
• CrimeGrade.org for comparative safety grades and neighborhood-level heat maps

All crime rates were calculated using the standard per 100,000 residents metric to allow for fair comparisons across neighborhoods with varying population sizes.

Crime Definitions

• Violent crime includes homicide, aggravated assault, robbery, and sexual assault.
• Property crime includes burglary, larceny/theft, and motor vehicle theft.

These two categories were analyzed separately and then normalized as part of the final scoring.

Composite Safety Score Formula

Each neighborhood received a composite safety score between 0 and 100, where 100 represents the lowest crime rate based on our weighted formula. Each neighborhood was assigned a safety score from 0 to 100, based on the following weighted criteria:

• Violent crime: 60% of the total score
• Property crime: 40% of the total score

This weighting gives greater importance to violent crime, reflecting its stronger influence on a neighborhood’s perceived safety. Composite scores were then used alongside other factors, including Austin rent prices, walkability, lighting, and schools to create our final neighborhood rankings.

Rent data from the Apartment List platform

All rent estimates in this guide are based on Apartment List data from January through July 2025, covering more than 7,500 active listings across Austin and its surrounding neighborhoods.

• We use median rent rather than average to provide a more accurate reflection of typical prices. Median values reduce the impact of unusually high or low listings and better represent what most renters actually pay.
• Unless otherwise noted, all rent figures refer to 1-bedroom apartments.
• As of July 2025, the Austin metro median rent is $1,224 for a 1-bedroom and $1,489 for a 2-bedroom unit.

Other factors we weighed (schools, lighting, walkability)

In addition to crime and rent data, our rankings include three safety-adjacent metrics that reflect neighborhood infrastructure and livability. Each was normalized and weighted to support the overall safety score:

• Walk Score (10%): Measures how pedestrian-friendly a neighborhood is based on proximity to amenities like grocery stores, parks, schools, and public transit.
• GreatSchools Ratings (10%): Aggregated scores (1-10 scale) of nearby public K–12 schools, indicating overall school quality and neighborhood investment.
• Streetlight Density (5%): Refers to the number of streetlights per mile. Higher lighting coverage is correlated with lower nighttime crime rates and better perceived safety.

Austin’s Crime Snapshot

Austin’s violent crime rate in 2025 is 22% below the national average, making it one of the safest major cities in Texas. While property crime is slightly higher than average, it’s concentrated in a few dense urban zones. Many Austin neighborhoods remain well below citywide rates. Renters in the safest areas pay about 12% more than the city median, reflecting strong demand for security, schools, and livability.

Austin’s violent crime rate is about 22% lower than the national average and significantly lower than both Dallas and Houston. Property crime is slightly above the U.S. average but remains concentrated in a few high-density areas, leaving many neighborhoods well below citywide figures.

Austin’s Safe Neighborhood Rent Snapshot

To help renters understand how safety correlates with cost, we broke down Austin’s rental market into three tiers:

• Citywide Average: Represents the median rent across all Austin neighborhoods
• Safer-than-Average Areas: Includes neighborhoods with below-average crime but not in the top nine
• Nine Safest Neighborhoods: Based on our composite safety score rankings

The nine safest neighborhoods—Circle C Ranch, Tarrytown, Barton Hills, Mueller, Allandale, West University, Steiner Ranch, Rollingwood, and Hyde Park—command a 12% rent premium over the citywide median for one-bedroom units. Despite higher costs, renters often consider this premium worthwhile for added security, stronger community infrastructure, and access to better schools and transit.

Trends That May Impact Safety Next Year

Austin’s safety landscape is shaped not just by neighborhood factors, but also by citywide policy, development, and infrastructure changes. Here are a few key developments that could affect crime trends in 2026:

• Expect increased police visibility as the Austin Police Department expands its patrol force following 2025 staffing initiatives.
• Watch for pedestrian upgrades and improved lighting through the city’s Vision Zero program, which targets high-traffic and historically underlit areas.
• Monitor ongoing development in areas like South Lamar, East Austin, and The Domain, where rising density may shift localized crime patterns.
• Track population growth as Austin continues to add thousands of new residents annually, potentially increasing demand on public safety resources.
• Anticipate improvements in emergency response tied to the city’s real-time crime mapping tools and expanded 311 public safety reporting system.

While the neighborhoods in this guide have remained consistently safe, renters should stay informed as Austin evolves. Proactive city policies combined with engaged communities continue to play a key role in neighborhood safety.

Austin’s Nine Safest Neighborhoods

The neighborhoods below are included based on composite safety scores, which reflect a weighted blend of 2025 violent and Austin’s crime data, median rent prices, and safety-adjacent factors like school quality, walkability, and streetlight coverage.

Each listing includes current rent data from Apartment List, along with local insights—such as commute times, neighborhood infrastructure, and community amenities—to help renters understand why these areas stand out. When searching for an apartment, use Apartment List’s filters to find listings in these neighborhoods and tailor your search by price, floor plan, and proximity to schools or transit.

These rankings are based on 2025 data and reflect where safety, livability, and rental value align best for Austin renters today.

Hyde Park

• Violent crime rate: 290 per 100,000
• Property crime rate: 2,180 per 100,000
• Median rent: 1BR $1,139 | 2BR $1,895
• Composite safety score: 83/100
• Top amenities: Mature trees, bike lanes, nearby parks, community focus
• Public school rating: 7/10
• Walk Score: 75
• Streetlight coverage: Moderate
• Commute to Downtown: 12 minutes by car, 20 minutes by MetroBus
• Transit options: MetroBus Route 7, frequent bike lanes

Hyde Park blends historic charm with modern upgrades. It offers quiet streets lined with preserved early-20th-century homes and mature trees, paired with recent street-lighting improvements and protected bike lanes. Just minutes from UT Austin and downtown via MetroBus, Hyde Park appeals to students, faculty, and professionals alike who want a neighborhood feel without sacrificing access to the city.

Heritage Hills

• Violent crime rate: 195 per 100,000
• Property crime rate: 1,720 per 100,000
• Median rent: 1BR $1,295 | 2BR $1,620
• Composite safety score: 90/100
• Top amenities: Quiet streets, neighborhood park, easy access to retail and transit
• Public school rating: 7/10
• Walk Score: 61
• Streetlight coverage: High
• Commute to Downtown: 15 to 18 minutes by car, 25 to 30 minutes by bus
• Transit options: CapMetro Routes 7, 10, and 337; near US-183 and I-35

The residential pocket called Heritage Hills is located just north of St. Johns and Highland and provides a peaceful, affordable alternative for renters who value safety and space. Tree-lined streets, solid streetlight coverage, and strong community involvement help keep crime rates low. With convenient access to major highways and multiple CapMetro routes, the neighborhood balances suburban quiet with city connectivity. Heritage Hills is a smart pick for families and professionals seeking security, affordability, and easy access to Central Austin.

North Shoal Creek

• Violent crime rate: 205 per 100,000
• Property crime rate: 1,710 per 100,000
• Median rent: 1BR $1,298 | 2BR $1,732
• Composite safety score: 86/100
• Top amenities: Sidewalks, neighborhood park, quick access to grocery and retail
• Public school rating: 7/10
• Walk Score: 65
• Commute to Downtown: 15–20 minutes by car
• Transit options: MetroRapid 803, CapMetro local lines, bikeable roads

North Shoal Creek is a quiet, established neighborhood just north of Allandale and a solid pick for renters seeking both safety and convenience. It’s walkable to grocery stores, cafes, and parks, with excellent access to public transit along Burnet and Anderson. Safety metrics rival those of more expensive areas, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious professionals and small families. With active resident-led involvement and well-lit streets, it feels secure day and night.

Windsor Park

• Violent crime rate: 230 per 100,000
• Property crime rate: 1,950 per 100,000
• Median rent: 1BR $1,495 | 2BR $1,368
• Composite safety score: 84/100
• Top amenities: Dottie Jordan Park, new apartments, access to Mueller
• Public school rating: 7/10
• Walk Score: 61
• Commute to Downtown: 15–20 minutes by car or MetroRapid
• Transit options: MetroRapid 337, CapMetro bus routes

Windsor Park in East Austin is rising in popularity with families and professionals. It borders the master-planned Mueller development, giving renters easy access to shops, trails, and green space. Though more affordable than Mueller itself, it offers comparable safety and better rental availability. With ongoing development and improved lighting, Windsor Park is quietly becoming one of Austin’s safest neighborhoods.

West University

• Violent crime rate: 310 per 100,000
• Property crime rate: 2,340 per 100,000
• Median rent: 1BR $1,489 | 2BR $1,752
• Composite safety score: 83/100
• Top amenities: Campus security, walkable dining, bike lanes, student services
• Public school rating: 6/10
• Walk Score: 87
• Streetlight coverage: High
• Commute to Downtown: 5 minutes by bike or car
• Transit options: CapMetro buses, extensive bike infrastructure

West University balances student-friendly affordability with enhanced campus-area security. It’s steps from UT Austin, making it a convenient gathering point for students, faculty, and staff. While many apartments are older, their location puts residents within walking distance of coffee shops, bookstores, and live music venues. Strong bike access and reliable transit make this a top choice for car-free renters.

Allandale

• Violent crime rate: 275 per 100,000
• Property crime rate: 2,060 per 100,000
• Median rent: 1BR $1,937 | 2BR $2,203
• Composite safety score: 85/100
• Top amenities: Burnet Road corridor, mature trees, grocery walkability
• Public school rating: 7/10
• Walk Score: 66
• Streetlight coverage: High
• Commute to Downtown: 15–18 minutes by car
• Transit options: Multiple bus lines including MetroRapid 803

Allandale is a quiet yet connected North Austin neighborhood with a strong sense of community. Its tree-lined streets and proximity to Burnet Road restaurants give it a suburban feel without losing access to city perks. Crime rates remain lower than average, and lighting and transit make walking and commuting safe and easy. It’s a top pick for families and professionals who want calm without isolation.

Mueller

• Violent crime rate: 265 per 100,000
• Property crime rate: 1,920 per 100,000
• Median rent: 1BR $2,199 | 2BR $3,065
• Composite safety score: 90/100
• Top amenities: Master-planned layout, farmers market, splash pads, retail
• Public school rating: 8/10
• Walk Score: 72
• Streetlight coverage: Very High
• Commute to Downtown: 10–12 minutes by car or transit
• Transit options: Frequent CapMetro routes, bikeshare access

Mueller was built from the ground up for livability and safety. Its layout encourages walking, with retail clusters, pocket parks, and wide sidewalks all under strong community oversight. Families enjoy frequent events and access to splash pads and nature trails. With high visibility, modern lighting, and a short commute, it attracts renters who want suburban perks with an urban feel.!

Meuller Lake, Meuller Pond Austin Texas aerial shot

Barton Hills

• Violent crime rate: 270 per 100,000
• Property crime rate: 2,080 per 100,000
• Median rent: 1BR $1,572 | 2BR $1,974
• Composite safety score: 86/100
• Top amenities: Barton Creek Greenbelt, shaded streets, low-rise apartments
• Public school rating: 8/10
• Walk Score: 58
• Streetlight coverage: Moderate
• Commute to Downtown: 12–15 minutes by car
• Transit options: Limited CapMetro access, bike-friendly roads

Barton Hills is the go-to neighborhood for renters who love green space. With direct access to the Barton Creek Greenbelt and upgraded lighting on popular trails, the area offers outdoor appeal with a side of safety. Apartments are often tucked into cul-de-sacs or low-rise buildings, making the area quiet and residential. It’s a solid option for nature lovers and families who don’t mind the occasional drive.

Tarrytown

• Violent crime rate: 210 per 100,000
• Property crime rate: 1,720 per 100,000
• Median rent: 1BR $1,336 | 2BR $1,494
• Composite safety score: 92/100
• Top amenities: Parks, library, golf course, strong neighborhood association
• Public school rating: 9/10
• Walk Score: 63
• Streetlight coverage: High
• Commute to Downtown: 10–12 minutes by car
• Transit options: CapMetro Route 18 and rideshare coverage

Tarrytown is one of Austin’s most desirable neighborhoods, known for its peaceful streets, well-kept homes, and outstanding public schools. Renters benefit from strong community involvement and well-lit sidewalks. It’s also one of the most convenient places to live for downtown access without dealing with the noise. Its relatively affordable rent makes it a standout in West Austin.

Circle C Ranch

• Violent crime rate: 185 per 100,000
• Property crime rate: 1,640 per 100,000
• Median rent: 1BR $1,650 | 2BR $2,260
• Composite safety score: 93/100
• Top amenities: Top-rated schools, community pools, cul-de-sacs, parks
• Public school rating: 9/10
• Walk Score: 41
• Streetlight coverage: High
• Commute to Downtown: 25–30 minutes by car
• Transit options: Limited bus service, park-and-ride options nearby

Circle C Ranch is a favorite among families, with large rental properties, strong school performance, and a highly active HOA. Safety here feels built-in—wide streets, cul-de-sacs, and frequent patrols help create a secure setting for kids and adults alike. It’s farther from downtown but well worth it for renters looking for top-tier suburban peace of mind.

Balancing Safety with Affordability

Finding a neighborhood that feels safe and fits your budget doesn’t have to be a compromise. With smart timing, apartment features that prioritize security, and a few digital tools, you can land in a low-crime area without overspending. Here’s how to strike the right balance.

Tips for Lowering Rent in High-Demand Safe Areas

Even the safest neighborhoods have affordability hacks if you know where to look:

• Sign your lease during the off-season: Apartment prices tend to dip between December and February, when fewer people are moving. Landlords may be more willing to offer discounts or move-in incentives during these months.
• Negotiate a longer lease: In many cases, landlords will offer a reduced monthly rent if you agree to a 16- or 18-month lease instead of the standard 12. This locks in your rate and gives you stability.
• Consider a roommate arrangement: Splitting rent with a roommate can make higher-priced neighborhoods more accessible. Use Apartment List’s Roommates feature to find matches with compatible lifestyles and budgets.

Apartment Features That Enhance Personal Security

Not all safety comes from the neighborhood itself—your building matters, too. Look for apartments with built-in safety features that can make a big difference in your day-to-day comfort:

• Controlled access: A secure building entry system that uses a keypad, fob, or mobile app that limits entry to residents and verified guests only.
• Smart locks: Keyless entry systems allow you to lock and unlock doors remotely, add temporary access codes for guests, and receive notifications of door activity.
• Secure package lockers: Prevent theft with lockers that require a code or app to retrieve deliveries.
• Gated parking or garage access: Adds a layer of protection for both your vehicle and personal safety, especially at night.

Tools for Monitoring Crime in Your Desired Neighborhood

Staying informed is just as important as picking the right place. These free resources can help you track neighborhood safety before and after you move:

• APD Crime Viewer: An official Austin Police Department tool that lets you view recent crimes by type and address.
• CrimeGrade.org Heat Maps: Interactive maps that show crime levels down to the neighborhood level, updated regularly.
• Citizen App: Real-time safety alerts and incident reports based on your location.
• Google Alerts: Set an alert for your neighborhood + “crime” (e.g., “Mueller Austin crime”) to get timely updates straight to your inbox.

Ready to Find Your New Apartment in Austin?

The safest neighborhoods in Austin are ready to welcome newcomers to its quiet, leafy streets. With options for dining, wineries, and distilleries, you can take your pick of lively or laid-back communities. Ready to find an apartment in one of the walkable neighborhoods in Austin? Sign-up with Apartment List now.

If Austin doesn't seem like the right place for you, consider other places to live in Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Austin’s Safest Neighborhoods

What is the safest Austin neighborhood with rent under $1,700?

Circle C Ranch is the safest neighborhood in Austin, with average one-bedroom rents typically around $1,650. It consistently ranks among the lowest in violent-crime rates and offers strong school ratings, making it a top choice for budget-conscious renters who prioritize safety.

Which safe Austin neighborhood has the shortest commute to downtown?

Tarrytown is the safest neighborhood with the quickest commute to downtown Austin. Located just three miles west of downtown, it offers a 10 to 12-minute drive in light traffic, which is ideal for professionals seeking security and convenience.

Are crime rates going up or down in Austin’s safest neighborhoods?

Crime rates in the nine safe Austin neighborhoods are either stable or declining as of 2025, according to the most recent data from the Austin Police Department. Most of these areas have seen consistent year-over-year drops in violent crime.

Which safe Austin neighborhoods have gated apartment communities?

Steiner Ranch, Circle C Ranch, and Rollingwood all feature multiple gated apartment communities with controlled access, offering added security for renters who want an extra layer of privacy and protection.

How reliable is public transportation and rideshare in the safest neighborhoods?

Austin’s CapMetro public transit reaches most of the safest neighborhoods, including West University, Hyde Park, and Mueller. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft typically have wait times under eight minutes, even during peak hours, providing reliable mobility for non-drivers.