As the second-largest state in the US, Texas is a wonderful place to live or visit, counting on cultural hubs like Austin. Like anywhere in the world, it’s also got its dangerous cities to be aware of.
Texas has a population of over 28.7 million people. As one of the most populous states in America, it comes as no surprise that certain areas and cities are more dangerous than others.
Wealth and safety come hand in hand in the United States, and the least safe cities in Texas tend to be those with high unemployment, low incomes, lack of proper housing, and poor living conditions.
As per crime statistics recorded by the World Population Review, let’s take a look at the most dangerous cities in Texas.
10. Beaumont – one of the highest crime rates in America
Located in Jefferson County, Beaumont takes tenth place on our list of the most dangerous cities in Texas.
With a crime rate of 45 per 1,000 residents, Beaumont actually has one of the highest crime rates in the country. As of 2022, you have a one in 22 chance of falling victim to a crime in Beaumont.
RELATED READ: The World Bucket List guide to the most dangerous cities in Florida.
9. Amarillo – show me the way
Amarillo is a beautiful part of Texas located where the southern plains meet the desert. Often referred to as the heart of Route 66, the city is the subject of Tony Christie’s famous song ‘(Is This the Way To) Amarillo’.
Amarillo has very high crime rates. However, the touristy areas are generally quite safe. One of the biggest crime risks in Amarillo is mugging. Always be vigilant when visiting.
Avoid areas west of town, along the Interstate 40 corridor, as these are considered the most dangerous parts of the city.
8. Alamo – in the top five percent of dangerous cities in Texas
Within Texas, 95% of other areas have a lower crime rate than Alamo. Put this way; Alamo is certainly one of the most dangerous cities in Texas.
On a scale of one to 100, Alamo’s violent crime rate is 43, compared to the US average of 22.7. Shockingly, the property crime rate in Alamo is 80.9 compared to the US average of 35.4.
7. Houston – the largest city in Texas
Houston is one of the most famous cities in Texas. With a population of 2.288 million as of 2021, it is the largest city in Texas and the fourth largest city in America.
Being the biggest, it comes as no surprise that it is one of the most dangerous cities in Texas. Your chance of falling victim to a property crime in Houston is one in 24 while being a victim of a violent crime is one in 81.
Visitors are advised to beware of pickpockets when travelling on public transportation.
6. Corpus Christi – always be vigilant
Statistics dating from 2020 until now show that the crime rate in Corpus Christi is much higher than the national rate. The same statistics show that 74% of US cities are safer than Corpus Christi. If you happen to visit, be vigilant.
RELATED READ: Our guide to the most dangerous cities in California.
5. San Antonio – prime with tourist attractions; keep an eye on your purse
San Antonio is the second-biggest city in Texas. It is known for its popular tourist attractions, rich history, and prominent military presence.
If you plan on visiting San Antonio, you must always be vigilant, especially at night. Statistics show that one in every 18 people are victims of crime in San Antonio, Texas, with the most common crimes being violent crimes and property crimes.
4. Odessa – a city of cultural heritage
In western Texas, Odessa is one of the most dangerous cities. Like Lubbock, one in every 16 people falls victim to crime in Odessa.
Despite being a city known for its oil industry and cultural heritage, statistics show that it is one of the most dangerous cities in the state.
3. Lubbock – home to Texas Tech University
Despite being a hub of education with Texas Tech University, Lubbock is a city that struggles with crime.
One in every 16 people fall victim to crime in Lubbock, including a high murder rate as well as a high percentage of other violent crimes like rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. Property crimes like burglary in Lubbock are also very common.
2. Humble – don’t let the name fool you
The population of Humble, Texas, is around 16,000. Despite its humble name, it’s the second most dangerous city in Texas.
People of this city have a one in nine chance of being the victim of either violent or property crime. Humble is a traditional small American town.
1. Bellmead – the most dangerous Texas city
Taking the top spot of the most dangerous cities in Texas is Bellmead in McLennan County. Per 100,000 residents of Bellmead, there are 1,284 violent crimes.
As for property crimes, it’s 6,196 per 100,000 residents. These are shockingly high figures compared to the rest of the United States.
Residents of Bellmead have a one in four chance of being a victim of theft or arson. This is one area of Texas you should avoid where possible.
READ NEXT: Our guide to the friendliest US states.
Other notable mentions
Livingston: Livingston, Texas, is described as being “safer than four percent of US neighbourhoods”. The chances of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Livingston are one in 233.
Wichita Falls: In Wichita Falls, your chances of falling victim to a property crime are one in every 32 people. This city was found to have some of the highest motor vehicle theft rates in the nation.
Palmview: Compared to the ten closest cities to Palmview, it’s considered the most dangerous. Crime rates here are described as 118% higher than the national average.
Waco: This city on the Brazos River is 74% more dangerous than the national average. According to crime reports, there is a crime rate of 7.18 per 1000 people.
Your questions answered about the most dangerous cities in Texas
In this section, we answer some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions, as well as those that often appear in internet searches.
What is the deadliest city in Texas?
With 1,294 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, Bellmead is the deadliest city in Texas.
What city in Texas is safest?
Frisco, located north of Dallas, has the lowest crime rates in Texas. Thus, it’s the safest city in Texas.
What’s the deadliest city in the US?
For 2023, Memphis, Tennesse, came out as the deadliest city in America, with 7,913 crimes per 100,00 people and one of the highest murder rates. Other cities that have previously held this title include Detroit, Michigan, and New Orleans, Louisiana.
