Texas Crime Rates 2024: Is Texas Safe and How to Protect Your Home
Texas is known for its vast landscapes and diverse communities, but concerns about crime rates also loom large. The reality, however, is more nuanced. While Texas faces certain challenges, the state also boasts remarkably safe cities and ongoing efforts to reduce crime. In this updated 2024 guide, we'll explore Texas crime statistics, compare crime rates across regions, and provide practical steps to secure your home.
Updated Texas Crime Data (2024)
In 2024, Texas reported approximately 4.7 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, slightly higher than the national average of 4 per 1,000. The state also saw 28.4 property crimes per 1,000 residents, with theft and vehicle theft leading the list. Importantly, while overall crime in Texas is declining, certain categories, such as vehicle theft, continue to affect urban areas more than others.
Texas Crime: Violent vs. Property Crime (2024 Update)
Violent Crime: As of 2024, Texas maintains a violent crime rate of 4.7 per 1,000 residents, slightly above the national average. Aggravated assaults, robberies, and homicides remain key concerns. The highest violent crime rates are found in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, while smaller cities report lower rates.
Property Crime: Property crime, particularly larceny theft and vehicle theft, continues to challenge Texas, with a rate of 28.4 per 1,000 residents. Major cities such as Houston and El Paso experience higher property crime rates, emphasizing the importance of securing homes and vehicles.
Notable Situations
Urban vs. Rural Patterns: Larger cities like Houston and San Antonio have higher property crime rates, while smaller towns like Fair Oaks Ranch remain relatively safe. However, rural areas sometimes experience spikes in crime due to local events.
Seasonal Fluctuations: Package theft increases significantly during the holiday season, particularly in metropolitan areas, necessitating extra vigilance.
Texas Crimes in Key Cities
| City | Violent Crime Rate (2024) | Property Crime Rate (2024) |
| Houston | 6.3 per 1,000 | 31.2 per 1,000 |
| Dallas | 5.8 per 1,000 | 28.9 per 1,000 |
| Austin | 4.5 per 1,000 | 25.3 per 1,000 |
| San Antonio | 6.1 per 1,000 | 30.5 per 1,000 |
Factors Creating Safe Texas Communities
Economic Opportunity: Cities with thriving job markets, good schools, and lower poverty levels tend to have lower crime rates. Prosperous areas like Plano and Frisco serve as prime examples of this.
Community Involvement: Active neighborhood watch programs, positive police-community partnerships, and tight-knit neighborhoods actively deter crime. For instance, cities like Fair Oaks Ranch and Sunnyvale prioritize strong local engagement, leading to lower crime rates.
Proactive Policing: Well-funded police departments that employ smart strategies, fast response times, and preventative measures make a significant difference. Police forces in cities like Trophy Club and Murphy demonstrate how targeted policing strategies can keep communities safe.
Top 10 Safest Texas Cities
While Texas is known for its size and diverse culture, it's also home to many cities with impressively low crime rates. These cities stand out for their strong community ties, effective law enforcement, and proactive crime prevention strategies. Whether you're considering relocating or just curious about the safest spots in the Lone Star State, here are the top 10 safest Texas cities in 2023, where safety and peace of mind are top priorities.
Fulshear
Fair Oaks Ranch
Trophy Club
Colleyville
Sunnyvale
Fate
Murphy
Prosper
Horizon City
Fairview
Related Content:
Navigating Texas Cities Safely: A Guide for Visitors
Lone Star Living: Safety Tips for Texans Flying Solo
Crimes Texans Worry About Most
Surveys consistently reveal that Texans share these primary safety concerns:
| Category | Concerns |
|---|---|
| Property Crimes |
- Home invasions while residents are present or away - Theft of vehicles or belongings from vehicles - Package theft, especially around the holidays - Opportunistic theft in seemingly safe neighborhoods |
| Violent Crime |
- News reports of violent crimes can stoke fears, even if the overall risk is low - Concerns about personal safety in public spaces, especially at night or in certain areas - Worry about the impact of potential mass shootings on Texas communities |
| Border-Related Crime |
- Human and drug trafficking can negatively impact surrounding communities - Property crimes linked to illegal border crossings - Heightened public discourse and political tensions surrounding border security |
How Does Texas Crime Compare Nationally?
Though Texas exceeds national averages in both violent and property crime, the state’s crime rate has decreased by over 10% in the last decade. Many of Texas’s safest cities report crime rates well below the national average, contributing to a balanced picture of safety across the state.
Safety Beyond Statistics: Protecting Your Texas Home
While understanding Texas crime rates is important, proactive home security is crucial. Let's explore ways to fortify your home and minimize risk:
Safety Starts at the Front Door
Reinforce Your Entry Points: Strong deadbolts, well-lit entryways, and sturdy windows are your first line of defense.
Smart Security: Consider video doorbells, motion-sensor, security cameras, and affordable systems like Kangaroo Home Security. Kangaroo offers easy-to-install DIY options or optional professional monitoring, plus a plan that could reimburse you in case of theft or damage.
Landscaping Matters: Well-trimmed shrubs and trees remove hiding places for potential intruders.
Kangaroo Home Security: Protecting Your Texas Home
With crime rates fluctuating across different Texas cities, it’s more important than ever to take proactive steps in safeguarding your home. Kangaroo Home Security offers a range of smart, affordable solutions to help protect your property from theft, burglary, and other threats.
Why Choose Kangaroo?
Easy Installation: Kangaroo’s DIY systems are simple to install, making it perfect for homeowners and renters alike.
Comprehensive Security: From video doorbells to motion sensors, Kangaroo offers a variety of devices to secure entry points and monitor activity around your home.
Affordability: Kangaroo provides high-quality security without breaking the bank, offering plans that fit any budget.
Theft & Damage Reimbursement: With the Kangaroo Complete Protect Plan and Camera Protect Plan, you can even get reimbursed in case of theft or damage.
"its great to know i can always check who's at my door. so convenient!" - Junie, Chewy Customer
"Very nice and perfectly working. I and my family feel safe. Thank you" - Clary, Chewy Customer
"A dependable security placed in any corner of your house. A highly recommended kind of security camera to your friends.easy installation of app on your phone. Accessible wherever you go . You can track what is happening direct from your home .amazing product and the thing is cheaper than any other brand." - AquelisHub, BestBuy Verified Purchase
Smart Security for Peace of Mind
Consider integrating these Kangaroo devices into your home security setup:
Video Doorbell Camera: Monitor your front door in real-time, deter package theft, and record any suspicious activity.
Motion + Entry Sensors: Get instant alerts if someone enters your home without permission, even when you're away.
Indoor + Outdoor Security Cameras: Keep an eye on your property day and night, thanks to advanced motion detection and night vision features.
Whether you live in a bustling city like Houston or a quieter area, Kangaroo Home Security ensures your home is protected with smart technology and cost-effective solutions.
Inside Tips
Home Security System: A comprehensive system with monitored alarms deters crime effectively.
Don't be an Easy Target: Never leave valuables in plain sight, even in your car. Secure windows when you leave.
Inventory Your Valuables: Document possessions with photos or lists for insurance purposes in case of burglary/theft.
Beyond Your Walls: Community Safety
Neighborhood Watch: These programs foster communication and alertness, reducing opportunities for crime.
Know Your Neighbors: A strong community network can provide extra eyes and ears to keep your neighborhood safe.
City Resources: Check your city's website for crime prevention tips, safety programs, and police contact information.
The Takeaway: Securing Your Texas Home
Don't let Texas crime rates leave you feeling powerless. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can significantly enhance your home security. Investing in affordable security solutions like Kangaroo, participating in neighborhood watch programs, and staying alert can make all the difference.
Texas might have its challenges, but with the right precautions, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home and family are safe.
