Top 10 Dangerous Cities in Texas

Introduction

Howdy y’all! My name is Emily Johnson, and I’m a Texan born and raised. I’ve spent most of my life exploring the beautiful cities and towns that make up this great state. However, as much as I love Texas, I can’t ignore the fact that some areas can be dangerous. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the top 10 dangerous cities in Texas. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Texan, it’s important to know where to be cautious so you can stay safe while enjoying all that Texas has to offer.

Top Statistics and Facts

• According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program, Texas had a violent crime rate of 410.9 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants in 2020.
• The most dangerous city in Texas is Houston, with a violent crime rate of 1,026 per 100,000 people in 2020.
• San Antonio has the second-highest violent crime rate in Texas, with 589.7 incidents per 100,000 people in 2020.
• Other cities on this list include Dallas, Lubbock, and Amarillo, among others.

10. Killeen

Killeen is a small city located in Central Texas, known for its proximity to Fort Hood, one of the largest military installations in the world. Unfortunately, the city has also gained a reputation for being one of the most dangerous places in Texas. In 2020, Killeen had a violent crime rate of 531.6 incidents per 100,000 people, with a total of 1,207 reported incidents.

Personal Experience: I’ve visited Killeen a few times to see family who live on the outskirts of the city. While I’ve never experienced any crime firsthand, I always make sure to stay aware of my surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.

9. Lubbock

Lubbock is a city in West Texas that’s home to Texas Tech University, a thriving music and arts scene, and unfortunately, high crime rates. In 2020, Lubbock had a violent crime rate of 654.3 incidents per 100,000 people, with a total of 3,174 reported incidents.

Personal Experience: I’ve been to Lubbock a few times to see concerts and visit friends who attend Texas Tech. While I’ve never felt unsafe, I do know that the city has had its fair share of crime in recent years.

8. Odessa

Odessa is a city in West Texas that’s known for its oil industry and the classic movie Friday Night Lights. Unfortunately, it’s also known for having high crime rates. In 2020, Odessa had a violent crime rate of 867.3 incidents per 100,000 people, with a total of 1,039 reported incidents.

Personal Experience: I’ve only been to Odessa once for a work conference, and I didn’t have much time to explore the city. However, I did hear from some locals that crime can be an issue in certain areas.

7. Beaumont

Beaumont is a city in Southeast Texas that’s known for its history, culture, and outdoor activities. Unfortunately, it’s also known for having high crime rates. In 2020, Beaumont had a violent crime rate of 887 incidents per 100,000 people, with a total of 1,068 reported incidents.

Personal Experience: I’ve been to Beaumont a few times to visit family who live nearby. While I’ve never experienced any crime firsthand, I do know that the city has had its fair share of issues in recent years.

6. Amarillo

Amarillo is a city in North Texas that’s known for its cowboy culture, Route 66, and the famous Cadillac Ranch. Unfortunately, it’s also known for having high crime rates. In 2020, Amarillo had a violent crime rate of 898.3 incidents per 100,000 people, with a total of 2,572 reported incidents.

Personal Experience: I’ve been to Amarillo a few times to see family who live there. While I’ve never felt unsafe, I do know that the city has had its fair share of crime in recent years.

5. Dallas

Dallas is a major city in North Texas that’s known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Unfortunately, it’s also known for having high crime rates. In 2020, Dallas had a violent crime rate of 1,021.7 incidents per 100,000 people, with a total of 13,326 reported incidents.

Personal Experience: I’ve been to Dallas many times for work and leisure. While I love the city, I always make sure to stay aware of my surroundings and avoid certain areas at night.

4. Waco

Waco is a city in Central Texas that’s known for its history, culture, and outdoor activities. Unfortunately, it’s also known for having high crime rates. In 2020, Waco had a violent crime rate of 1,077 incidents per 100,000 people, with a total of 1,511 reported incidents.

Personal Experience: I’ve been to Waco a few times to visit the Magnolia Market and other attractions. While I’ve never felt unsafe, I do know that the city has had its fair share of crime in recent years.

3. San Antonio

San Antonio is a major city in South Texas that’s known for its history, culture, and tourist attractions like the Alamo and River Walk. Unfortunately, it’s also known for having high crime rates. In 2020, San Antonio had a violent crime rate of 589.7 incidents per 100,000 people, with a total of 11,315 reported incidents.

Personal Experience: I’ve been to San Antonio many times for leisure and work. While I love the city, I always make sure to stay aware of my surroundings and avoid certain areas at night.

2. Fort Worth

Fort Worth is a major city in North Texas that’s known for its Western heritage, art scene, and outdoor activities. Unfortunately, it’s also known for having high crime rates. In 2020, Fort Worth had a violent crime rate of 590.5 incidents per 100,000 people, with a total of 4,099 reported incidents.

Personal Experience: I’ve been to Fort Worth many times for work and leisure. While I love the city, I always make sure to stay aware of my surroundings and avoid certain areas at night.

1. Houston

Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth-largest city in the United States. It’s known for its diverse population, world-class museums, and delicious food. Unfortunately, it’s also known for having the highest crime rates in Texas. In 2020, Houston had a violent crime rate of 1,026 incidents per 100,000 people, with a total of 26,770 reported incidents.

Personal Experience: I’ve been to Houston many times for work and leisure. While I love the city, I always make sure to stay aware of my surroundings and avoid certain areas at night.

FAQs

What should I do if I’m visiting one of these cities?

If you’re visiting one of these cities, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid certain areas at night. Make sure to lock your car doors and keep valuables out of sight. If you’re unsure about the safety of a certain area, ask a local or consult with your hotel staff.

Are these cities completely unsafe?

No, these cities are not completely unsafe. However, they do have higher crime rates than other cities in Texas, so it’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

What are some safe cities in Texas?

Some safe cities in Texas include Plano, Round Rock, and Frisco, among others. These cities have lower crime rates and are generally considered safe for residents and visitors alike.