Study: Safest Cities in Texas 2016
Mouthwatering cuisine, a strong economy, and some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet are just a few of the reasons to hang your hat in Texas. Looking to settle there? We've got the scoop on which cities are the safest.
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| Safest Cities in Texas 2016 © CreditDonkey |
Our second-largest state in the nation saw its property crime rate decline by 8.2% between 2013 and 2014. While violent crime edged up slightly, crime was down 7.2% statewide overall. With cities like Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio attracting newcomers in droves, surrounding suburban communities are becoming safe havens for working professionals, families, and retirees alike. This influx fortunately hasn’t led to a spike in crime — Texas remains one of the nation’s most desirable places to live.
We’ve put together a guide to Texas’s safest cities for current residents and newcomers who want to know which cities and towns have the lowest levels of criminal activity. Read on to find out how we developed our study and which cities landed a place in our rankings.
Study Methodology
Because there are so many cities in Texas, we focused our research on communities with a population of 10,000 or higher. Statistically, crime tends to be lower where there are fewer residents, so by cutting out the smallest places, we created a fair playing field.
The FBI Uniform Crime Report for 2014 was the primary source of our data. We analyzed the number of violent and property crimes per 1,000 residents for each city, and we also looked at the number of robberies and burglaries reported per 1,000 residents. We decided to put robbery and burglary in the spotlight because they tend to occur more often and are likely to be of greater concern to residents.
Using all four factors, we calculated a CreditDonkey safety score for each city and whittled the field down to the 50 cities with the best scores. A lower safety score directly correlates to a lower crime rate, so you’ll see that the top city on our list has the lowest, and therefore best, safety score overall.
Safest Cities 2016: Rankings
1. Colleyville
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 5.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.7
The affluent Fort Worth suburb of Colleyville easily rose to the top of our rankings with just 10 violent crime reports registered for all of 2014. Local law enforcement employs a community-policing approach, which is a big factor in the city’s low crime rate. The Colleyville Police Department uses crime mapping and Nixle alerts to keep residents updated on when and where crime is occurring.
Building on that solid foundation, Colleyville police employ a multi-layered, proactive approach to keeping crime at bay—including intelligence-led policing and situational awareness of persons, places, and behaviors. This allows the department to quickly collect, analyze, and map crime data. And that lets them deploy resources and employ tactics that are targeted and effective.
Keeping Colleyville or any place safe is a community effort—so we’re incredibly fortunate to have top-flight officers and involved citizens.
Jennifer Fadden, City Manager, Colleyville
2. Trophy Club
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 5.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.9
Trophy Club comes in at number two on our list, with zero murders or robberies reported in 2014. The number of burglaries was also low, totaling 12 altogether. Since 2010, the city’s population has jumped by nearly 40%, and it’s quickly becoming one of the Dallas-Fort Worth area’s hottest suburban communities.
3. Canyon
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 7.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.2
“Diverse” and “vibrant” are some of the words that can be used to describe the city of Canyon. Just south of Amarillo, it’s notable for having the lowest burglary rate of any city in our rankings, with only nine burglaries reported in 2014. Citizen involvement is encouraged by the Canyon Police Department through local Neighborhood Watch programs and the Citizen Police Academy.
4. Murphy
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 7.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.2
Murphy has an old-fashioned feel and even has its own motto (“Life Lived at Your Pace”). Compared to its neighbors Plano and Garland, it’s much smaller, but that’s an advantage for residents who want to escape the breakneck speed of the big city. That’s reflected in the crime rate, which included just 13 violent crimes in 2014.
What is Murphy's secret? Here's one possibility:
The Murphy citizens are very comfortable with the Murphy Police Department, it’s officers and command staff. MPD has a strong Citizen on Patrol program, an excellent Police Explorer Post that is national recognized, and customer service that is beyond the normal expectations of patrols. MPD is led by Chief Arthur Cotten.
Murphy Fire and Rescue has also touched every aspect of the community through Fire Department Open House, CPR events, Santa on the Fire Truck, and various other out reach activities. MFR is led by Chief Mark Lee.
Both of these departments are more than city departments, they are community partners that are an integral part of the community livelihoods. Their relationships with the citizens make the citizens comfortable in partnering with them.
The City of Murphy also promotes numerous community events that bring the community together and allows neighbors to become friends.
James Fisher, City Manager, City of Murphy
5. Memorial Villages
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 6.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.3
The Memorial Villages Police Department serves the residents of Bunker Hill, Piney Point, and Hunters Creek villages, all located in the Houston area. Citizens are able to keep tabs on crime through V-LINC, the department’s community crime alert system. Fortunately, there isn’t much to report — the city saw only four violent crimes and 79 property crimes in 2014.
6. Highland Village
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 6.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.4
Highland Village is nestled on the shores of Lewisville Lake, approximately 30 miles northwest of Dallas. The city rates exceptionally well for violent crime, with seven incidents reported in 2014, none of which were robberies. Youth programs like Police Involving Parents are part of the Highland Village Police Department’s strategy to keep kids out of trouble.
7. Hutto
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 7.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.5
Austin’s popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, causing surrounding communities like Hutto to see a jump in their populations. The city’s ranks have swelled by close to 30% since 2010, with no sign of a slowdown in sight. Great schools, modestly priced homes, safe neighborhoods, and an abundance of job opportunities combine to attract newcomers.
Did you know:
The other outstanding effort comes from the Hutto Police Department. Our hard-working officers proactively patrol and really know our community. Hutto police officers also genuinely care about our City. You’ll see their friendly faces out and about, on bike patrols and at all community events.
Hutto Police Department is always finding new ways to reach residents. In 2016, our officers will get body cameras to increase accountability and we will add four new officers to patrol to address our growing population. Residents should expect an expanded presence on Social Media and on the City’s Cable Access Channel. We’ve also expanded our Citizen’s Police Academy to include advanced classes and hands-on training.
Karen Daly, City Manager, Hutto
8. Keller
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 8.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.6
Close to 44,000 people reside in Keller, where a small-town feel is combined with big-city comforts. At less than 20 miles from Fort Worth, it’s ideally suited for commuting professionals, but there’s a generous mix of families and students as well. Residents of all ages appreciate how safe the city is, and it’s one of several places on our list that didn’t report a single robbery for 2014.
9. Royse City
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 7.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.7
“A Friendly Touch of Texas” is what you’ll find if you settle down in Royse City. This primarily residential community is one of the Dallas metro area’s hidden gems. A stroll along the city’s Main Street is like stepping back in time, and residents are nothing if not welcoming. The Royse City Police Department takes pride in the low crime rate, and they have a right to do so; it’s one of only a few cities on our list that reported no murders and no robberies in 2014.
10. Flower Mound
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 9.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.8
Flower Mound’s police department is focused on providing residents with a superior quality of life, which they manage to do by keeping crime low. Multiple community outreach initiatives, including Coffee with a Cop, Santa Cops, and I.N. the Know give officers a way to stay connected with the people they serve and improve how they keep tabs on crime.
11. Friendswood
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 8.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.8
The city of Friendswood is part of the Houston metro area, just a short distance from Galveston Bay. Originally founded by Quaker settlers, the city maintains an atmosphere of peace, and residents are committed to looking out for one another. The Shepherd Program, for example, allows the Friendswood Police Department to quickly locate residents with autism, dementia, or other mental conditions that may lead them to wander away from home.
First, is the residents themselves. Over and over, they demonstrate how much they care about their community by looking out for each other, and when appropriate, calling the Friendswood Police Department and making us aware of situations that just don’t look “right.” On multiple occasions, a resident seeing something suspicious and calling the Friendswood Police Department immediately, has prevented criminal activity or helped us apprehend suspects.
Also, voters and the City Council have made it a priority to equip the Police Department with the officers, support staff, necessary technology, and training to be present in the neighborhoods and on the thoroughfares. As the City has developed, adding new neighborhoods, we have been able to maintain a ratio of officers to serve the growing population.
Around the country, law enforcement policies and practices received a great deal of public scrutiny following high-profile police events. One of the major challenges will be improving the public’s perception of police operations through education.
The Department remains committed to achieving the highest level of organizational excellence using an intelligence-driven policing strategy that is multi-jurisdictional, threat/problem driven and based on analysis of problem-oriented, program effectiveness and reengagement based on lessons learned. This is achieved by focusing on (1) criminal enterprises and organized criminal activity; (2) commodity flow; trafficking and transshipment of illegal drugs; (3) identification of low-level and mid-level drug dealers and neutralizing problem houses in city subdivisions.
Robert Wieners, Chief of Police, Friendswood
12. Sachse
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 9.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.0
Sachse is a northeastern suburb of Dallas, just southeast of Murphy. Like its neighbor, Sachse has an excellent reputation for safety, with a relatively low 19 violent crimes reported in 2014. There were eight robberies reported but no murders, and fewer than 40 burglaries made the books.
13. Little Elm
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 8.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.0
Situated on the northern edge of Lewisville Lake, Little Elm is an idyllic place to be if you love the water. It’s also one of the fastest-growing cities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area and in the state of Texas. While the lake is a major draw, the well-maintained neighborhoods, highly rated schools, and low crime all add to the city’s appeal.
Did you know:
We believe that many things go into having a safe and welcoming community.
The quality of our police and fire professionals are certainly part of it, but we also focus on keeping our neighborhoods clean and place a great value on neighborhood code enforcement.
Matt Mueller, Town Manager, Town of Little Elm
14. Corinth
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 9.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.0
Corinth is another Dallas suburb to make it into our rankings thanks to the high level of safety it offers residents. The Corinth Police Department works night and day to make sure crime is kept under control. If you’re interested in what an officer patrol entails, you can tag along for the day through the Ride Along Program.
15. Lakeway
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 9.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.2
While the younger crowd tends to flock to nearby Austin, Lakeway attracts a slightly older crowd. Seniors make up nearly 18% of the city’s population, and they appreciate the abundance of peace and quiet that can be found here. The Lakeway Police Department is on patrol 24 hours a day to make sure residents are staying safe at home, at work, and everywhere in between.
16. Hewitt
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 9.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.3
Hewitt’s motto is “Life Just Right,” and it’s easy to feel at home here, especially if you’re concerned about safety. There were 16 violent crime reports and 140 property crime reports in 2014, which included three robberies and 26 burglaries. At less than 10 miles from Waco, residents have convenient access to working, shopping, and dining.
17. The Colony
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 9.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.3
A bustling local economy and affordable housing are two of The Colony’s best features. It’s not too shabby in the crime department either, which accounts for its higher ranking. The Colony’s police department uses various outlets for connecting with residents of all ages, including the Explorers Program, which works in conjunction with Boy Scouts of America.
Did you know:
Troy Powell, City Manager, The Colony
18. Leander
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 11.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.4
Leander is another rapidly growing Texas city, and it’s experienced an influx of young professionals and families in recent years who are searching for a safe hometown in the Austin area. About 33,000 people call it home, but Leander’s police department has managed to keep crime to a minimum. The Citizens on Patrol program offers private citizens a chance to assist with crime prevention.
As a fast-growth school district, sustaining our culture over time has been a priority. Several years ago Leander ISD’s leadership foresaw that our district was a special place — that care and concern for every student, parent and partnership was at the heart of everything we did — so we captured our core values in tools that future generations could use to continue the LISD culture.
One of our Guiding Documents, the 10 Ethical Principles, identifies character traits that promote responsible behavior — honesty, integrity, promise-keeping, loyalty, concern for others, law-abidance/civic duty, respect for others, fairness, pursuit of excellence and accountability. Throughout the school year, teachers and staff emphasize these qualities and encourage students to model them. The 10 Ethical Principles also complement student-led initiatives that support a districtwide culture of kindness and caring.
Currently, we have approximately 13,000 parent and community volunteers who serve in our schools. They experience the 10 Ethical Principles in action and see first-hand how our campus cultures promote kindness and respect. Because of their engagement and support of education, the connections between our schools and community are strong.
Jennifer Bailey, Leander ISD
19. Wylie
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 10.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.4
The city of Wylie is all about honoring the past, embracing the present, and planning for the future. The forward-thinking work is what’s contributing to its steady growth, making it one of the Dallas area’s larger suburbs. While the city has grown, its crime rate hasn’t, thanks to the efforts of the Wylie Police Department.
Our local police officers don’t just drive through Wylie, but are invested in all areas. We see them on foot working at Wylie events and walking in our Downtown area, as well as having a great presence in their off hours mixing their families with ours at local events.
This outreach has fostered the thinking that the PD are a part of our community and there to help, not be avoided.
Mike Agnew, President, Wylie Chamber of Commerce
20. University Park
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 12.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.6
University Park is just a few minutes from downtown Dallas, and it’s a breath of fresh air for residents who want to escape the big city. It ties with Memorial Villages for the second-lowest violent crime rate, with no murders or robberies reported for 2014. The cost of living is higher compared to some of the other cities we’ve profiled so far, but residents take home a healthy median income of more than $176,000 annually.
21. Allen
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 12.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.7
With nearly 94,000 residents, Allen is the second-largest city to earn a spot in our rankings. We were pleasantly surprised at how low the crime rate is compared to its size, as it recorded fewer than 20 robberies in 2014. Members of the Allen Police Department are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to help them combat crime, and they’re assisted in their efforts by citizen volunteers.
22. Robinson
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 10.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.7
Robinson sits south of Waco, right next door to Hewitt. If you’re like the residents here who prefer a slower pace, you’ll feel there’s no better place to call home. The population is a mix of people from all walks of life, under the protection of the Robinson Police Department.
23. Cibolo
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 11.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.7
Like other cities in the San Antonio area, Cibolo has experienced a population boom in recent years, and it’s still growing at a steady clip. The area has a rich history, but it offers a fresh take on suburban living. Cibolo’s crime rate is remarkably low considering its size. Out of 15 violent crimes reported in 2014, there were just three robberies and no murders.
24. Coppell
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 12.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.7
Family and community are top priorities in the city of Coppell, where the local police department is committed to making life as safe and enjoyable as possible. Women’s self-defense classes, neighborhood watch programs, and a Junior Police Academy are among the community services the Coppell police department sponsors to educate citizens and raise crime awareness.
25. Socorro
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 11.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.8
Nearly 33,000 people reside in Socorro, a border city just southeast of El Paso. One of the things that works in Socorro’s favor is the cost of living, which is well below the state and national average. Aside from that, there are plenty of neighborhoods that offer safe, comfortable surroundings for people who are raising children or enjoying their golden years.
26. West University Place
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 10.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.9
Great neighborhoods abound in West University Place, and not only are they beautiful, but they’re safe as well. This upscale Houston suburb features higher home prices that are offset by the fact that the median household income exceeds $200,000 per year. The West University Place Police Department’s House Watch program makes sure your property is protected while you’re away.
27. Horizon City
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.1
Horizon City, part of the larger El Paso metro area, lies just a few miles east of Socorro. Violent crime is a rare occurrence — a grand total of eight aggravated assaults and one robbery were reported in 2014. Burglary is also infrequent; fewer than 30 cases were reported to the Horizon City police department over the same period.
28. Southlake
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.2
Southlake is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, and it’s one of the area’s more affluent suburban communities. Southlake’s police department takes a decidedly hands-on approach to fighting crime, with residents getting the opportunity to personally know the district sergeant who represents their neighborhood. Officers will even conduct a home security inspection to help you spot potential weak points in and around your property.
29. Rowlett
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 13.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.3
Yet another Dallas suburb, Rowlett is a fairly well-to-do city of around 58,000 people. Its location on Lake Ray Hubbard makes it a hit with the fishing and boating set, and it’s easy to connect with nature in the midst of all the hustle and bustle. Rowlett’s police department is always on alert for potential criminal activity, and the Volunteers in Police Service program provides ongoing support for officers.
30. Sulphur Springs
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 13.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.5
The city of Sulphur Springs encourages residents to play, have fun, and celebrate, and they’re able to do all three in safe surroundings. There were no murders reported for 2014, and just six robberies and 38 burglaries. The Sulphur Springs Police Department has multiple divisions to fight crime, including a special crimes unit and a SWAT team for emergency situations.
31. Lumberton
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 13.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.6
Lumberton is a bedroom community that sits about 15 miles north of Beaumont. It’s one of the smaller cities in our study, with just over 12,000 residents, and the crime rate is proportionately low. It’s one of several cities in our rankings that had no robbery reports for 2014. There were 29 burglaries reported out of 170 property crimes overall.
32. Seabrook
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.5
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.6
Seabrook features a quaint downtown along the Galveston Bay, and it’s a great place to do some antiquing or check out the catch of the day. The Seabrook Police Department is part of the larger Public Safety Task Force, which also includes the Seabrook Volunteer Fire Department, the Clear Lake Emergency Medical Corps, and the Seabrook Office of Emergency Management.
33. Cedar Park
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 15.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.6
Close to 67,500 people reside in Cedar Park, which is one of the Austin area’s most prominent suburbs. The city’s ranks have grown by nearly 23% since 2010 and new faces are appearing on the scene all the time. Residents who have a crime tip to report can do so anonymously via the police department’s tip411 program.
Last year, Cedar Park Police implemented the Police Priority Dispatch System, used by Police & Fire communication personnel to help facilitate information-gathering with prescribed questions that ensure first responders receive the necessary information to respond appropriately to every call for service. In 2015, we also completed the rollout of Computer-Aided Dispatching for Police and Firefighters, which improves response times for first responders by allowing dispatchers to use GPS technology to identify and send the closest units. Cedar Park is the first city in Williamson County to adopt CAD technology.
We’re also making face-to-face connections with our community every day. We credit our low crime rate largely to community policing, which means our residents have strong partnerships with each other and our Police. It’s why our National Night Out ranks First in Texas and in the Nation’s Top 10 among cities of similar size. Our Fire Department visits local elementary school children as part of its Helping Educate About Today’s Safety (HEATS) program – in which Firefighters perform educational and entertaining skits and provide audience members with important fire safety tips such as smoke detector inspection, creating a fire escape plan, high risk activities and fire safety drills.
The Cedar Park Fire Department is the first fire department in Central Texas and one of only a handful in the State to hold Accredited Status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International. CPFD is one of about 200 agencies in the world to achieve Internationally Accredited Agency status with the CFAI and the Center for Public Safety Excellence, Inc. (CPSE). The Cedar Park Police Department holds Recognized Agency Status through the Texas Police Chiefs Association’s Best Practices Recognition Program.
Brenda Eivens, City Manager of the City of Cedar Park
34. Clute
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.7
Clute is another small town, with around 11,300 residents. The closest major city is Houston, which is about 55 miles to the north. Fortunately, the beach is just a hop, skip, and a jump away, so you can cool off by the water during those hot Texas summers. The low crime rate means you’ll be soaking up the sun in safety.
35. Mansfield
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 15.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.7
The city of Mansfield prides itself on being “minutes from everything and second to none,” and residents enjoy a top-notch quality of life. Living here means being close to all the Dallas-Fort Worth area has to offer without being subjected to a higher crime rate. If you’re new to the area, the annual National Night Out event hosted by the Mansfield Police Department is a good opportunity to get to know your neighbors as well as the officers who serve and protect the city.
36. Pflugerville
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 15.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.7
With such a memorable name, the city of Pflugerville is a standout in the Austin area. Kayaking around Lake Pflugerville or trekking across the city’s more than 30 miles of connected trails are just some of the ways locals enjoy the great outdoors. The city’s police department takes great pains to keep residents safe when they’re relaxing at home, working, or out playing.
37. Prosper
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.9
Prosper is a great place for families to flourish, and that notion is catching on. Since 2010, the city’s population has jumped by a mind-boggling 51%. It’s easily established itself as one of the Dallas-Fort Worth area’s more well-heeled suburbs. Crime is at a minimum, but in case something does happen, you can ensure you’ll get help in the fastest way possible by signing up for the Smart911 program. Prosper is one of the communities that participates in this program, which ensures that law enforcement can find your location and knows a little about you before reaching you.
38. Midlothian
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.9
The cement industry is big business in Midlothian, and the availability of jobs has attracted thousands of new residents over the last decade. The city is also central to both Dallas and Fort Worth, which makes it enticing for professionals who don’t mind a commute. Midlothian’s got a solid safety rating, and the Community Emergency Response Team allows citizens to take an active role in assisting emergency responders when a crisis hits.
Midlothian is a city that has a sense of community and that hometown feel.
On more than one occasion, someone in the line in front of me at Starbucks has “paid it backwards” and taken care of my order for me. People in Midlothian go out of their way to help each other, which is one of the many reasons I love my city!
Cammy Jackson, President, Midlothian Chamber of Commerce
39. Forney
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.9
Forney has officially been dubbed “The Antique Capital of Texas,” and there are plenty of places around town to search out unique finds. If antiques aren’t your thing, there are lots of other reasons to settle down here, starting with the city’s crime rate. In 2014, there were 32 violent crimes, with only two burglaries in the count. The burglary rate was also low, with three incidents reported per 1,000 residents.
40. Kyle
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 15.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.1
The Kyle Police Department is constantly on the lookout for ways to detect and prevent crime more effectively. In 2015, for example, the department created the Juvenile Officer position to provide services for troubled teens who may be at risk of becoming criminal offenders. That kind of progressive thinking is part of what helps to keep Kyle’s crime rate so low.
41. Alton
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.1
Alton’s population has surpassed 15,000 people over the last few years. While it’s not close to any of the major Texas cities, its more remote location doesn’t seem to bother residents. In fact, it may be what’s helping to keep Alton’s crime rate down. In 2014, four robberies were reported out of 10 violent crimes total.
42. Benbrook
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 17.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.1
Retirees in particular have taken a shine to Benbrook, but the city is a great place to put down roots for people of all ages. It’s less than a dozen miles from Fort Worth, so you’re close to all the big-city amenities without the big-city crime rates. Benbrook’s police department utilizes full-time officers and citizen volunteers to maintain law and order within the city.
43. Sugar Land
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.2
Life in Sugar Land is certainly sweet for the 85,000 or so people who call it home. A prospering economy has contributed to its growth over the past few years, and it’s become a magnet for families and career-minded professionals. Community programs like Safe Return and Are You Ok allow the Sugar Land Police Department to stay tuned in to citizens’ safety needs.
44. Rockwall
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 18.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.3
Rockwall’s police department is concerned with protecting the safety of all its citizens. The Unidos Program is the department’s way of reaching out to the city’s Spanish-speaking residents who need assistance with crime-related issues. Anyone who has a tip involving a crime can connect with officers through Rockwall County Crime Stoppers.
45. Watauga
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 17.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.3
Living in Watauga makes sense if you want to be close to Fort Worth, but you don’t want to get stuck paying an outrageous amount for housing. From retail stores to restaurants to local businesses, you’ve got everything you need to enjoy an outstanding quality of life in a safe setting. If you need a little extra reassurance, you can ask the Watauga Police Department to conduct a close patrol of your area.
46. Frisco
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 17.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.4
More than 140,000 people live in Frisco, making it the largest city to enter into our rankings. It’s primarily a destination for professionals who work in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, many of whom are raising families while building their careers. From a recreation perspective, there’s always something to see and do, and you can rest assured with the Frisco Police Department on patrol making sure you and your loved ones are staying safe.
I believe, of all the communities names, Frisco is the largest to be included. This is important to note because it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain that small-town feel and quality as a community grows. Furthermore, as you increase retail and businesses in a community, more minor property crimes such as shoplifting will increase and this could potentially distort the overall crime stats...
Tony Felker, CCE, IOM, President/CEO, Frisco Chamber of Commerce
47. Missouri City
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.5
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.4
In its early days, Missouri City played an important role in Texas history as a railroad town, and it’s still a significant part of the state’s economy today. The city boasts a population of nearly 71,000 people, and it’s one of the Houston area’s larger outposts. Missouri City has been recognized for its commitment to safety, and the police department sponsors multiple community relations initiatives to stay dialed in to citizens’ needs.
48. Gatesville
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 17.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.5
The Texas Department of Criminal Justice has a significant presence in Gatesville. The city is home to the Mountain View Unit, which houses the state’s death row for women, along with several other female-only correctional facilities. As a result, residents take obeying the law seriously and that translates over to the crime rate, which included a low 15 violent crime reports in 2014.
49. La Porte
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.6
As a major port city along the Galveston Bay, La Porte is a hive of activity, but fortunately, crime isn’t something that happens here too often. The police department’s patrol division is always visible in the community while School Resource Officers are walking the halls of local schools. The city also teams up with the Baytown Police Department in situations that require the expertise of specially trained SWAT officers.
We have wonderful citizens who look out for each other along with a fabulous police department that truly cares about the well-being of the community.
Colleen Hicks, President, La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce
50. Schertz
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 17.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.7
The final city on our list is one of the largest suburbs in the San Antonio area, with close to 37,000 residents. Community policing is the focus among members of the Schertz Police Department, and officers strive to maintain a positive relationship with citizens. The Schertz Citizens Patrol is a joint effort between the police department and the Schertz Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association to keep residents dialed in to the safety and security of their city.
Conclusion
Texas is home to some beautiful, unique cities, and we’ve highlighted the best of what the Lone Star State has to offer in terms of safety. If you live in any of these cities or you’re thinking of relocating to any of the places on our list, you can sleep easy at night knowing that crime isn’t a major threat to your quality of life.
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| © CreditDonkey |
The Top 50 Safest Cities in Texas
| Rank | City | Population | Total # of Violent Crimes1 | Total # of Property Crimes2 | Violent Crime Per 1,000 | Robbery Per 1,000 | Property Crime Per 1,000 | Burglary Per 1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colleyville | 24,915 | 10 | 142 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 5.7 | 0.7 |
| 2 | Trophy Club | 11,129 | 7 | 66 | 0.6 | 0.0 | 5.9 | 1.1 |
| 3 | Canyon | 14,055 | 9 | 106 | 0.6 | 0.0 | 7.5 | 0.6 |
| 4 | Murphy | 19,914 | 13 | 149 | 0.7 | 0.1 | 7.5 | 0.7 |
| 5 | Memorial Villages | 11,848 | 4 | 79 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 6.7 | 1.9 |
| 6 | Highland Village | 15,908 | 7 | 108 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 6.8 | 2.3 |
| 7 | Hutto | 20,567 | 13 | 159 | 0.6 | 0.0 | 7.7 | 1.6 |
| 8 | Keller | 43,711 | 24 | 374 | 0.5 | 0.0 | 8.6 | 1.3 |
| 9 | Royse City | 10,491 | 17 | 79 | 1.6 | 0.0 | 7.5 | 1.6 |
| 10 | Flower Mound | 69,572 | 34 | 642 | 0.5 | 0.1 | 9.2 | 1.2 |
| 11 | Friendswood | 38,012 | 21 | 329 | 0.6 | 0.1 | 8.7 | 1.8 |
| 12 | Sachse | 22,434 | 19 | 203 | 0.8 | 0.4 | 9.0 | 1.7 |
| 13 | Little Elm | 34,603 | 41 | 289 | 1.2 | 0.0 | 8.4 | 2.5 |
| 14 | Corinth | 20,810 | 19 | 191 | 0.9 | 0.1 | 9.2 | 1.9 |
| 15 | Lakeway | 13,554 | 18 | 132 | 1.3 | 0.0 | 9.7 | 1.6 |
| 16 | Hewitt | 14,166 | 16 | 140 | 1.1 | 0.2 | 9.9 | 1.8 |
| 17 | The Colony | 40,228 | 54 | 385 | 1.3 | 0.2 | 9.6 | 2.2 |
| 18 | Leander | 33,112 | 38 | 365 | 1.1 | 0.0 | 11.0 | 1.4 |
| 19 | Wylie | 45,323 | 43 | 496 | 0.9 | 0.0 | 10.9 | 1.6 |
| 20 | University Park | 24,219 | 4 | 302 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 12.5 | 1.8 |
| 21 | Allen | 93,889 | 73 | 1128 | 0.8 | 0.2 | 12.0 | 1.6 |
| 22 | Robinson | 11,488 | 29 | 120 | 2.5 | 0.1 | 10.4 | 1.6 |
| 23 | Cibolo | 24,846 | 15 | 283 | 0.6 | 0.1 | 11.4 | 2.6 |
| 24 | Coppell | 40,746 | 23 | 495 | 0.6 | 0.2 | 12.1 | 1.9 |
| 25 | Socorro | 32,624 | 42 | 385 | 1.3 | 0.2 | 11.8 | 2.1 |
| 26 | West University Place | 15,509 | 2 | 169 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 10.9 | 4.3 |
| 27 | Horizon City | 19,564 | 9 | 285 | 0.5 | 0.1 | 14.6 | 1.4 |
| 28 | Southlake | 28,640 | 7 | 414 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 14.5 | 2.0 |
| 29 | Rowlett | 58,474 | 75 | 797 | 1.3 | 0.1 | 13.6 | 2.1 |
| 30 | Sulphur Springs | 15,967 | 36 | 210 | 2.3 | 0.4 | 13.2 | 2.4 |
| 31 | Lumberton | 12,228 | 26 | 170 | 2.1 | 0.0 | 13.9 | 2.4 |
| 32 | Seabrook | 12,816 | 9 | 183 | 0.7 | 0.5 | 14.3 | 2.9 |
| 33 | Cedar Park | 63,681 | 67 | 965 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 15.2 | 2.2 |
| 34 | Clute | 11,305 | 15 | 162 | 1.3 | 0.0 | 14.3 | 3.0 |
| 35 | Mansfield | 61,935 | 59 | 932 | 1.0 | 0.3 | 15.0 | 2.3 |
| 36 | Pflugerville | 55,101 | 61 | 852 | 1.1 | 0.2 | 15.5 | 2.1 |
| 37 | Prosper | 13,916 | 17 | 199 | 1.2 | 0.0 | 14.3 | 4.1 |
| 38 | Midlothian | 20,348 | 28 | 342 | 1.4 | 0.1 | 16.8 | 1.4 |
| 39 | Forney | 17,167 | 32 | 253 | 1.9 | 0.1 | 14.7 | 3.0 |
| 40 | Kyle | 32,649 | 67 | 517 | 2.1 | 0.1 | 15.8 | 2.4 |
| 41 | Alton | 15,311 | 10 | 253 | 0.7 | 0.3 | 16.5 | 2.9 |
| 42 | Benbrook | 22,439 | 28 | 382 | 1.2 | 0.2 | 17.0 | 2.1 |
| 43 | Sugar Land | 85,055 | 99 | 1400 | 1.2 | 0.4 | 16.5 | 2.6 |
| 44 | Rockwall | 41,688 | 41 | 760 | 1.0 | 0.1 | 18.2 | 2.1 |
| 45 | Watauga | 24,348 | 23 | 432 | 0.9 | 0.2 | 17.7 | 2.5 |
| 46 | Frisco | 141,940 | 116 | 2508 | 0.8 | 0.1 | 17.7 | 2.8 |
| 47 | Missouri City | 70,853 | 126 | 1162 | 1.8 | 0.5 | 16.4 | 2.9 |
| 48 | Gatesville | 15,991 | 15 | 272 | 0.9 | 0.1 | 17.0 | 4.2 |
| 49 | La Porte | 34,852 | 70 | 584 | 2.0 | 0.3 | 16.8 | 3.2 |
| 50 | Schertz | 36,961 | 65 | 654 | 1.8 | 0.3 | 17.7 | 2.8 |
2Property crime includes burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
Rebecca Lake is a journalist at CreditDonkey, a home security comparison and reviews website. Write to Rebecca Lake at rebecca@creditdonkey.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for our latest posts.
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