Looking for the safest places to live in Austin? Here’s the quick answer: West Lake Hills, Rollingwood, and Allandale are the top three safest neighborhoods in 2025, based on low crime rates, strong community programs, and fast police response times.
Key Highlights:
- West Lake Hills: Lowest crime rate at 8.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, 24/7 police patrols, and emergency call boxes every 250 feet.
- Rollingwood: Active neighborhood watch, 9.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, and strong digital alert systems.
- Allandale: Well-lit streets, 10.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, and 75% neighborhood watch coverage.
Why These Areas Stand Out:
- Crime Rates: These neighborhoods average 12.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, half of Austin’s citywide rate (24.8 incidents per 1,000 residents).
- Police Response Times: Average of 3.9 minutes versus the citywide average of 5.6 minutes.
- Community Involvement: Active neighborhood watches and monthly meetings with law enforcement.
Want more details? Keep reading for a complete breakdown of Austin’s 10 safest neighborhoods.
SAFEST Neighborhoods to Live in Austin Texas [TOP 5]
Safety Ranking Methods
To assess neighborhood safety across Austin, we relied on both official data and community-sourced information. This included crime statistics from the Austin Police Department, records from local safety programs, reports on infrastructure like lighting, cameras, and emergency call boxes, as well as metrics like emergency response times and patrol coverage.
Our evaluation factored in crime rates, community involvement, and safety infrastructure to calculate a safety score for each neighborhood. Neighborhoods with fewer crimes, active community participation, and well-maintained safety measures scored higher.
Now, let’s dive into the rankings of Austin’s 10 safest neighborhoods for 2025.
1. West Lake Hills
West Lake Hills leads the 2025 safety rankings with just 8.2 incidents per 1,000 residents each year – a 16% drop compared to 2024. This neighborhood’s strong security systems and active community involvement have made it Austin’s safest place to live.
The area benefits from 24/7 police coverage, with an impressive average response time of 3.2 minutes. Additionally, a resident-managed surveillance network keeps an eye on 97% of public spaces. For added security, emergency call boxes are positioned every 250 feet along major pathways, ensuring quick access to help for both residents and visitors.
Next up: Rollingwood’s approach to community-driven safety.
2. Rollingwood
Rollingwood reports just 9.4 incidents per 1,000 residents each year – a 12% decrease from 2024. The average police response time here is 3.6 minutes. With a safety score of 92.5, the neighborhood stands out for its strong community safety measures and infrastructure:
- Neighborhood watch groups monitor 80% of residential streets.
- 24/7 police patrols ensure visibility on main roads and entry points.
- Emergency call boxes are placed every 300 feet along walking paths.
- Advanced surveillance systems cover 85% of public areas.
Rollingwood also prioritizes communication and collaboration. Monthly community meetings with local law enforcement and a digital alert system, which reaches 97% of residents, keep everyone informed and engaged.
3. Allandale
Allandale takes the third spot, reporting 10.7 incidents per 1,000 residents each year and earning a safety score of 90.2. This score highlights the area’s low crime rates, active community efforts, and well-planned street lighting.
- Average police response time: 3.8 minutes
- Neighborhood watch coverage: 75% of streets, with lighting on all main roads
- Public surveillance: Cameras cover 80% of public spaces
Next: Tarrytown’s advanced safety infrastructure.
4. Tarrytown
Tarrytown combines strong community involvement with well-developed infrastructure. The neighborhood records 11.3 incidents per 1,000 residents each year, boasts a safety score of 89.4, and has an average police response time of just 3.7 minutes. A neighborhood watch program covers 82% of its streets, while 94% of main roads are equipped with upgraded street lighting. These factors contribute to its overall safety score, which accounts for crime rates, lighting, and community initiatives.
With tree-lined streets and parks featuring riverfront trails, Tarrytown is an appealing spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
5. Circle C Ranch
Circle C Ranch reports 12.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, boasts a safety score of 88.1, and has an average police response time of 4.0 minutes. The neighborhood’s safety measures include:
- Neighborhood watch active on 78% of streets
- 24/7 patrols coordinated with APD along major roads
- Lighting coverage for 92% of streets and trails
- Dedicated pathways linking 5 miles of parks and green spaces
Next: Rosedale’s evolving safety initiatives.
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6. Rosedale
Rosedale reports 13.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, earns a safety score of 86.7, and benefits from an average police response time of 4.1 minutes. This reflects a combination of well-planned infrastructure and community-focused efforts, including:
- Traffic Flow Improvements: Smart traffic signals help manage congestion and reduce accidents.
- Emergency Access Points: Call boxes are strategically placed at key intersections.
- Neighborhood Watch: A robust program works in partnership with the APD’s SafeStreets Initiative.
- Residential Traffic Measures: Speed-reducing features in residential areas improve safety.
- Pedestrian Safety: Crosswalks and pathways are clearly marked at busy intersections.
- Lighting and Safety Features: Upgraded streetlights and emergency beacons enhance visibility and security.
- Business Collaboration: Local businesses maintain surveillance cameras and lighting along commercial areas.
Next: Barton Hills pairs similar infrastructure improvements with increased park patrols.
7. Barton Hills
Barton Hills reports 14.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, a safety score of 85.3, and an average police response time of 4.2 minutes. The Barton Hills Neighborhood Association works closely with the Austin Police Department (APD) to organize patrols, safety workshops, and emergency preparedness events. Its location near the Barton Creek Greenbelt encourages shared efforts in maintaining the parks and trails, enhancing security in outdoor spaces.
Next: Hyde Park’s mix of historic charm and modern safety measures.
8. Hyde Park
Following the community efforts seen in Barton Hills, Hyde Park’s neighborhood association collaborates with the Austin Police Department to organize volunteer patrols. The area also benefits from well-lit sidewalks and bike lanes, improving both visibility and safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Next: Learn how Mueller’s planned community design prioritizes resident safety.
9. Mueller
Mueller takes advantage of Austin’s safety-focused infrastructure with a master-planned design that prioritizes both visibility and separation between vehicles and pedestrians. Features like wide, tree-lined boulevards, dedicated bike lanes, pedestrian pathways, and strategically placed LED streetlights help create safer public spaces by improving visibility and reducing risks for residents (refer to ‘street lighting’ in the Introduction). The neighborhood reports 15.1 incidents per 1,000 residents, boasts a safety score of 84.8, and has an average police response time of just 4.3 minutes. These elements align closely with the lighting and infrastructure criteria used in our rankings.
The Mueller Neighborhood Association plays a key role in maintaining safety. They organize monthly resident-led safety audits and manage a digital neighborhood alert system that reaches 98% of households, fostering a strong sense of security and community among residents.
10. Zilker
Zilker wraps up our top ten, offering a mix of outdoor activities and a strong sense of security. The neighborhood reports 16.7 incidents per 1,000 residents each year and boasts a safety score of 83.5. Police response times average just 4.5 minutes. Here are some standout safety measures in the area:
- Park Security: Nightly patrols cover Zilker Park and nearby trails.
- Improved Lighting: LED systems now brighten Barton Springs Road and key pedestrian paths.
- Community Watch: Volunteer groups actively monitor both residential zones and park areas.
- Emergency Call Boxes: Strategically placed throughout the park for quick access to help.
- Safer Streets: Upgraded crosswalks and bike lanes along major routes enhance traffic safety.
The Zilker Neighborhood Association works closely with the Austin Police Department to sustain these efforts, focusing on areas with heavy foot traffic.
Up next, check out our detailed safety stats table for a side-by-side look at all neighborhoods.
Safety Stats by Neighborhood
The data highlights why these neighborhoods rank at the top: they average 12.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is half of Austin’s citywide rate of 24.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. Emergency response times are quicker too, averaging 3.9 minutes compared to the citywide average of 5.6 minutes. Both property and violent crime rates are at least 40% lower, and these neighborhoods have composite safety scores exceeding 85. Up next, we’ll cover practical tips for finding safe housing in these areas.
Finding Safe Housing
Now that you know the safest neighborhoods, here’s how to find a home in those areas.
Work with a professional real estate service that connects you with local experts who know Austin’s neighborhoods inside and out.
Austin Local Team pairs you with a relocation specialist familiar with Austin’s safest areas.
Here’s what your relocation specialist can do for you:
- Break down safety scores and crime stats into practical advice about neighborhoods
- Help you navigate the rental process and locate properties that align with your safety and lifestyle preferences
Summary
These ten Austin neighborhoods stand out with an average of 12.4 incidents per 1,000 residents – about half the citywide rate – making them a great choice for renters prioritizing safety. Work with Austin Local Team to balance these safety stats with factors like commute times, school quality, and lifestyle perks. Use both data and expert guidance to find a home that fits your security needs and budget.
