Crime and Pollution in Austin

Crime Data in Austin

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Austin, TX's crime situation presents a moderately positive outlook with improvements in public perceptions of safety. While the fear of crime is relatively low, some concerns about property crimes and drug activities remain.

Residents generally feel safe, particularly in daylight, although there is a mild concern regarding activities like theft during nighttime.

Some notable concerns include:

• Property Crimes - Although property crimes are not a significant issue in Austin, there is a moderate level of concern about theft and car-related incidents. Public sentiment suggests a need for continued vigilance in these areas.
• Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related issues are of minimal concern among Austin's population, reflecting effective law enforcement and community programs tackling these problems.
• Violent Crimes - Violent crime concerns are notably low in Austin, with residents expressing confidence in their safety from physical assault and robbery. This perception contributes positively to a generally safe environment.
• Public Safety - The majority of Austinites feel secure, especially during the day, with public spaces contributing to a general sense of safety. However, some residents still express slight apprehension about going out alone at night.

Crime Trends and Safety

• Rising Crime Concerns - Despite low crime rates, there is a mild perception that crime may be on the rise. This is primarily due to isolated incidents and media reports, even though overall statistics do not support a significant increase.
• Specific Fears - Concerns of being mugged or experiencing violence based on ethnicity or religion are scarce, with public opinion reflecting a strong sense of inclusivity and safety in Austin.

Summary of Crime in Austin

Overall, Austin's crime scenario is positive, with the city seeing improvements in public safety and a reduction in violent crime incidents. Continued efforts to address property crime will further enhance this positive trend.

Crime Rankings

Austin ranks 37th on the Crime rankings in United States. The crime ranking by city for the United States is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.

1. Memphis

Tennessee

2. Detroit

Michigan

3. Baltimore

Maryland

4. Albuquerque

New Mexico

5. Saint Louis

Missouri

6. Oakland

California

7. New Orleans

Louisiana

8. Milwaukee

Wisconsin

9. Philadelphia

Pennsylvania

10. Chicago

Illinois

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Austin has made notable progress in air quality improvements, providing residents with a healthier environment. Although particulate levels such as PM2.5 and PM10 are monitored closely, the city's air quality is generally well-regarded.

Public perception emphasizes a moderate air quality, reflecting satisfaction with ongoing environmental policies and their impact on health and quality of life.

• PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - The PM2.5 levels in Austin are well within safe limits, posing minimal health risks. Continued monitoring ensures these particles remain at a safe level, particularly benefiting sensitive groups.
• PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - PM10 levels are noted but are generally managed effectively within acceptable ranges. Seasonal variations occasionally affect these numbers, but overall, they reflect a healthy air quality.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Austin exhibits a high level of efficiency in waste disposal systems, with residents satisfied with current methods of garbage collection and management.

While some neighborhoods experience moderate noise pollution, resulting from urban life, it is not considered a significant deterrent to quality living.

• Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - The city scores well in garbage disposal satisfaction, with streamlined processes ensuring minimal disruption and maintaining the cleanliness of neighborhoods.
• Noise and Light Pollution - Noise pollution exists but at manageable levels, with city planning continually seeking to incorporate solutions that mitigate sound disruptions.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

With an emphasis on green spaces, Austin provides numerous parks and natural areas that enhance the quality of life and contribute positively to the city's environmental health.

The drinking water in Austin is of excellent quality, offering residents confidence in their water supply and contributing significantly to overall satisfaction with living conditions.

• Green and Parks Quality - Austin's parks and green spaces are highly valued by its citizens, serving as ideal spots for relaxation and recreation while supporting environmental sustainability.
• Drinking Water Quality - Drinking water quality in Austin is perceived as excellent, with high satisfaction levels regarding both accessibility and cleanliness.

Pollution Rankings

Austin ranks 18th on the Pollution rankings in United States. The pollution ranking for the United States is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.

1. Los Angeles

California

2. Salt Lake City

Utah

3. Detroit

Michigan

4. New York

New York

5. Phoenix

Arizona

6. Houston

Texas

7. New Orleans

Louisiana

8. Las Vegas

Nevada

9. Chicago

Illinois

10. San Francisco

California