Texas offers a diverse living experience with bustling cities like Houston and the scenic Hill Country which are also some of the highest crime rate cities.
However, some urban areas in Texas face significant safety challenges, with high violent crime rates and now We will identify the most dangerous cities.
Efforts to improve safety in Texas include enhanced law enforcement and community engagement programs aimed at preventing violence and crime.
These initiatives address the safety concerns in these high-crime areas, highlighting the potential for community-driven solutions and positive change.
Despite these challenges, Texas continues to attract people due to its cultural richness, natural beauty, and economic opportunities.
List of the 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Texas in 2024
| Rank | City | Population | Violent Crimes per 100k | Violent Crimes per Day | Chance of Being a Victim |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Alice | 17,697 | 431.9 | 2.70 | 1 in 101 |
| 9 | Lubbock | 263.930 | 1,063 | 2.91 | 1 in 94 |
| 8 | Levelland | 12,337 | 1,065 | 2.92 | 1 in 94 |
| 7 | Beaumont | 112,089 | 1,080 | 2.96 | 1 in 93 |
| 6 | Humble | 15,819 | 1,100 | 3.01 | 1 in 91 |
| 5 | Houston | 2,313,238 | 1,142 | 3.13 | 1 in 88 |
| 4 | Donna | 16.774 | 1,146 | 3.14 | 1 in 87 |
| 3 | Kirby | 8,087 | 1,264 | 3.46 | 1 in 79 |
| 2 | Snyder | 11,230 | 1,440 | 3.95 | 1 in 69 |
| 1 | Gonzales | 7,196 | 1,481 | 4.06 | 1 in 68 |
10. Alice, Texas
On our number 10 is Alice, TX. With a population of 17.697, this city faces significant safety challenges as one of the top 10 most dangerous cities in Texas.
The violent crime rate here stands at 431.9 per 100,000 people, which is 129% higher than the Texas average as Statesman says. This translates to approximately 2.70 violent crimes per day and gives residents a 1 in 101 chance of becoming a victim.
The breakdown of violent crimes includes 869 assaults, 62 rapes, 28 robberies, and 28 homicides. Overall, Alice records 4,755 total crimes per 100,000 people, marking it as one of the more dangerous places in the state.
Has Crime in Alice Increased Over the Past Year?
Analyzing year-over-year crime statistics offers valuable insights into recent crime trends in Alice. By comparing Texas crime rates from one year to the next, we can detect patterns and changes, aiding residents in making informed decisions about their safety.
In the latest year, overall crime in Alice has slightly decreased by 0.2% compared to the previous year. However, violent crime has significantly increased by 45.8%, while property crime has dropped by 7.9%. This information helps individuals better understand the shifting safety dynamics in Alice.
Factors Influencing Crime in Alice
Alice has a poverty rate of 24.8%, which is notably higher than the national average of 15.1%. The economic status of a city’s population can greatly impact crime rates.
Areas with high poverty levels and significant income inequality are more likely to experience higher crime rates, as some individuals may turn to illegal activities to meet their needs. Reducing poverty and addressing economic disparities could potentially lead to lower crime rates in Alice.
9. Lubbock
Economic conditions, education, social environment, law enforcement, and urbanization all influence crime rates. Lubbock, TX, experiencing many of these factors, ranks as the 9th most dangerous city in Texas.
With a violent crime rate of 1,063 per 100,000 people, this translates to about 2.91 violent crimes per day, giving residents a 1 in 94 chance of falling victim to violent crime as an AreaVibes source says.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | 263,930 |
| Violent Crimes per 100k | 1,063 |
| Violent Crimes per Day | 2.91 |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 94 |
| Total Crimes per 100k | 5,198 |
Has Crime in Lubbock Increased Since Last Year?
Analyzing year-over-year crime data helps us understand short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing Texas crime rates from one year to the next, we can spot patterns and changes in Lubbock’s crime rates, providing valuable information for residents making informed decisions about where to live as they said.
Causes for High Crime in Lubbock
Rising living costs, including high housing prices, and expensive groceries and healthcare, can place significant financial strain on individuals and families, especially those with limited resources. This economic pressure may drive some individuals to engage in criminal activities like theft or burglary to meet their financial needs.
On the other hand, cities with lower living costs can ease economic stress, potentially leading to reduced crime rates. In Lubbock, the cost of living is 40.45% lower than the national average, suggesting a more affordable environment that might help decrease crime levels.
8. Levelland
Levelland, TX ranks as the 8th most dangerous city in Texas. With a population of 12.337, the city has a violent crime rate of 1,065 per 100,000 people, which is 147% higher than the Texas average as per NScout.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | 12,337 |
| Violent Crimes per 100k | 1,065 |
| Violent Crimes per Day | 2.92 |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 94 |
| Total Crimes per 100k | 3,275 |
Has Crime in Levelland Increased Over the Past Year?
Analyzing year-over-year crime data sheds light on short-term crime trends in Levelland. They also said that by comparing crime rates from one year to the next, they identified patterns and fluctuations, which is crucial for residents making informed decisions about where to live.
Factors Contributing to Crime in Levelland
The economic well-being of a city’s residents significantly influences crime rates. High poverty rates and income inequality can lead to increased criminal activity, as individuals may resort to illegal means to meet their basic needs. Conversely, lower poverty rates could contribute to reduced crime rates in Levelland. Currently, the poverty rate in Levelland is 17.3%, higher than the national average of 15.1%.
7. Beaumont
Beaumont ranks as the 7th most dangerous city in Texas, with a violent crime rate of 1,080 per 100,000 people, which is 201% higher than the Texas average. Residents face a 1 in 93 chance of becoming victims of violent crime, with approximately 2.96 violent crimes occurring each day.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | 112,089 |
| Violent Crimes per 100k | 1,080 |
| Violent Crimes per Day | 2.96 |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 93 |
| Total Crimes per 100k | 4,962 |
Has Crime in Beaumont Increased Over the Past Year?
The latest crime reports show that Year-over-year crime rates in Beaumont have increased by 9.1%. Comparing Texas crime rates from one year to the next offers valuable insights into whether Beaumont is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live.
This comparison divides crime into categories of violent and property crimes. While violent crime has decreased by 1.9% over the past year, property crime has risen by 12.6%. This analysis provides crucial information for individuals making informed decisions about living in Beaumont.
Factors Contributing to Crime in Beaumont
Beaumont’s poverty rate is currently 18.9%, higher than the national average of 15.1%. The economic status of a city’s residents significantly influences crime rates. High poverty rates and income inequality often lead to elevated crime levels, as individuals may resort to illegal activities to meet their basic needs.
6. Humble
Humble, TX ranks 6th on our list of the most dangerous cities in Texas, with a violent crime rate of 1,100 per 100,000 people—155% higher than the Texas average according to Chron,com. With a population of 15,819, this translates to about 3.01 violent crimes per day, giving residents a 1 in 91 chance of becoming a victim.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | 16,336 |
| Violent Crimes per 100k | 1,100 |
| Violent Crimes per Day | 3.01 |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 91 |
| Total Crimes per 100k | 11,912 |
Has Crime in Humble Increased Over the Past Year?
They examined year-over-year crime data providing valuable insights into short-term crime trends in Humble. They compared crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and fluctuations, helping residents make informed decisions about their safety.
In the most recent year, total crime in Humble has increased by 9.2%. Specifically, violent crime has risen by 8.6%, while property crime has gone up by 9.3%. This data gives individuals a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Humble.
Factors Contributing to Crime in Humble
Conversely, regions with strong employment rates often experience reduced overall crime. In Humble, the unemployment rate stands at 4.6%, slightly below the national average of 4.7%. Addressing employment issues and providing better job opportunities could potentially help reduce crime rates in the area.
5. Houston
The ongoing struggle with crime in Houston, TX, is well-known, so it’s no surprise if it is one of the most dangerous cities in Texas. With a violent crime rate of 1,142 per 100,000 people, residents face a 1 in 88 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime according to the source.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | 2,313,238 |
| Violent Crimes per 100k | 1,142 |
| Violent Crimes per Day | 3.13 |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 88 |
| Total Crimes per 100k | 5,723 |
Has Crime Here Increased Over the Past Year?
They also said that Houston has increased crime rates by 4.8%, according to the latest crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to the next provides insights into whether Houston is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. Crime rates are categorized into violent and property crimes.
Over the past year, violent crime has decreased by 8.3%, while property crime has risen by 8.6%. This analysis provides crucial information for individuals making informed decisions about living in Houston.
Houston Neighborhood
Houston comprises a diverse array of over 26 distinct neighborhoods, each with its unique crime rate influenced by location and various socioeconomic factors. Generally, neighborhoods close to the city center, characterized by higher population density, report elevated crime rates.
Conversely, outlying neighborhoods, marked by lower population density and reduced unemployment and poverty rates, tend to experience lower crime incidence.
- The most dangerous neighborhoods in Houston are Sunnyside, MacGregor, and Sharpstown.
- Sunnyside has the highest crime rate, with 92 crimes per 1,000 residents and a 1 in 11 chance of being a crime victim.
- MacGregor has a violent crime rate of 78 per 1,000 residents and is known for theft and assaults.
- Sharpstown’s violent crime rate is 35% higher than the average for Houston, with 34% of residents over 25 not graduating high school.
- Greenspoint, nicknamed “Gunpoint,” has seen rising crime rates despite police efforts, though some crime types have decreased recently.
- Far North has a median income of $30,316 and a violent crime rate of 2,455 per 100,000 people.
- Northeast Houston’s crime rates are 63% higher than the national average, and violent crime is 197% higher.
- Northwest Houston’s crime rate is 48% higher than the national average, with a 1 in 29 chance of violence.
- East End has a crime rate 49% above the national average, with violent crime 101% higher.
- Sugarland’s violent crime rate is 1,228 per 100,000 people, despite a median income of $42,634.
- Pasadena, while having a 5% unemployment rate, has a very high crime rate with a 1 in 175 chance of experiencing violent crime.
- Overall, Houston’s crime rate is 164% higher than the national average.
4. Donna
Donna, TX, has a violent crime rate 165% higher than the Texas average, which explains why it ranks on this highest crime rate city list. The city reports the following crime statistics per 100,000 residents: 36 robberies, 1,033 assaults, 65 rapes, and 12 homicides.
| Metric | Value (16,774) |
|---|---|
| Population | 16,774 |
| Violent Crimes per 100k | 1,146 |
| Violent Crimes per Day | 3.14 |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 87 |
| Total Crimes per 100k | 3,800 |
Has Crime in Donna Increased Since Last Year?
In the most recent reports from bestplaces.com, they determined that year-over-year crime rates in Donna have decreased by 0.9%. Examining the change in crime rates from one year to the next provides valuable insights into the evolving safety landscape of Donna, helping residents assess whether it is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live.
These crime rates are categorized into two primary groups: violent and property crimes. Over the past year, violent crime has decreased by 21.2%, while property crime has decreased by 11.5%. This comprehensive analysis offers potential residents essential information for making informed decisions about the safety of living in Donna.
3. Kirby
Kirby, TX, with a population of 8,709, ranks as the 3rd most dangerous city in Texas. Statistics show that The city reported over 1,264 violent crimes per 100,000 people last year, translating to approximately 3.46 violent crimes per day.
Has Crime in Kirby Increased Since Last Year?
They analyzed these trends to help determine whether the area is becoming safer or more dangerous. In the latest report, Kirby’s crime rate has increased by 8.2% compared to the previous year.
While violent crimes have decreased by 3.8%, property crimes have surged by 19.3%. By comparing Texas crime rates year-over-year, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns, providing valuable insights into the overall crime dynamics in Kirby.
Potential Causes for Crime in Kirby
Educational attainment can significantly influence crime rates. Higher educational achievement often correlates with lower crime rates, as it provides individuals with better job opportunities and alternatives to criminal activities. Conversely, lower educational attainment is often associated with higher crime rates.
2. Snyder
Snyder ranks as the second most dangerous city in Texas. With a population of 11,230, the city has a violent crime rate 233% higher than the Texas average as per CrimeGrader. This translates to 1,440 violent crimes per 100,000 people and approximately 3.95 violent crimes per day.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | 11,230 |
| Violent Crimes per 100k | 1,440 |
| Violent Crimes per Day | 3.95 |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 69 |
| Total Crimes per 100k | 2,782 |
Has Crime in Snyder Increased Since Last Year?
Their analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, helping to identify patterns and fluctuations in criminal activity. Such information is invaluable for residents seeking to make informed decisions about their choice of residence.
In the most recent year, total crime in Snyder has decreased by 7.4%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 12.6%, while property crime has decreased by 22.3%. This data offers individuals a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Snyder.
Potential Causes
Snyder has a poverty rate of 12.6%, which is lower than the national average of 15.1% says DATA USA. Historically, there is a direct correlation between poverty rates and crime statistics. Higher poverty rates tend to lead to higher crime rates, while lower poverty rates are associated with reduced crime levels.
1. Gonzales
Gonzales, TX holds the distinction of being the most dangerous city in Texas, with a violent crime rate of 1,481 per 100,000 people according to the AreaVibes. This rate is 243% higher than the Texas average. The city struggles with high rates of assault (1,354), robbery (14), rape (99), and homicide (14).
These elevated crime rates may be influenced by factors such as higher-than-average poverty, unemployment, and gang activity. Local law enforcement and community efforts are ongoing to help reduce crime rates in the future.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | 7,196 |
| Violent Crimes per 100k | 1,481 |
| Violent Crimes per Day | 4.06 |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 68 |
| Total Crimes per 100k | 3,230 |
Has Crime in Gonzales Increased Since Last Year?
AreaVibes compared the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Gonzales has increased by 5.5%. However, violent crime has decreased by 13.9%, while property crime has surged by 30.5% as per NeighborhoodScout.
Potential Causes for Crime in Gonzales
In Gonzales, only 62.5% of residents have completed high school, compared to the national average of 83%. This lower educational attainment could be contributing to the higher crime rates in the area. Addressing educational challenges and improving graduation rates may help reduce crime in Gonzales.
Now Let’s see some Of The Most Safest Cities in Texas
| Rank | City | Population | Violent Crimes per 100k | Chance of Being a Victim |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fulshear | 16,856 | 39 | 1 in 2,564 |
| 2 | Hutto | 26,434 | 41 | 1 in 2,480 |
| 3 | Trophy Club | 13,090 | 46 | 1 in 2,174 |
| 4 | Murphy | 20,611 | 52 | 1 in 1,923 |
| 5 | Fairview | 9,480 | 58 | 1 in 1,724 |
| 6 | Colleyville | 26,034 | 61 | 1 in 1,639 |
| 7 | Friendswood | 40,447 | 65 | 1 in 1,538 |
| 8 | Highland Park | 8,939 | 71 | 1 in 1,408 |
| 9 | Heath | 9,215 | 73 | 1 in 1,370 |
| 10 | Keller | 46,231 | 78 | 1 in 1,282 |
Comparison of Safest vs. Most Dangerous Cities
Safest Cities:
- The safest cities in Texas, such as Fulshear, Hutto, and Trophy Club, have populations ranging from 8,000 to 46,000, and their violent crime rates are extremely low, with only 39 to 78 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. Residents have a high chance of safety, with the odds of being a victim as low as 1 in 2,500 in some cities. These cities are generally suburban, and affluent, and have well-developed community engagement and law enforcement presence.
Most Dangerous Cities:
- In stark contrast, cities like Gonzales and Snyder rank as the most dangerous, with violent crime rates soaring above 1,400 per 100,000 residents. People in these cities face a much higher risk of being victims of crime, with chances as high as 1 in 68. Factors contributing to higher crime rates in these areas often include poverty, unemployment, and socioeconomic challenges, making these cities significantly less safe compared to the more affluent, safer areas.
