Texas has plenty of small-town living and wide-open spaces to choose from. But if you prefer more abundant choices in shopping, entertainment and amenities, you probably want to turn your attention to the state’s urban areas, like Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio.
A big benefit of living in larger cities is access to employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. Larger cities allow for more networking opportunities and there tends to be a higher concentration of upward-mobility positions. (Not to mention, Texas’ lack of a state income tax is a huge plus.)
Safety, of course, is a predominant factor in considering where to live, whether this is your first home or your tenth. Texas is ranked 35th in the nation for violent crime. With that in mind, check out the 10 safest cities in Texas with a population of 50,000 or more. (And discover which smaller Texas towns are considered the safest, too.)
The "Safest Cities" series evaluates and ranks the safest cities in each U.S. state using crime data from the FBI and state databases. Our analysis considers population size, violent and nonviolent crime rates, the most common crime, and comparisons to national and state averages. Violent crimes include homicide, assault, robbery, and sexual assault, while nonviolent crimes encompass burglary, theft, and vehicle-related offenses. Each city’s safety score is weighted, emphasizing violent crimes. Data inconsistencies and reporting variations are acknowledged as limitations. This analysis aims to help individuals and families make informed decisions about where to live.
The Top 10 Safest Large Cities in Texas
1. Allen
Population: 116,620
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 128
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 945
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
Allen is situated just 25 miles north of Dallas. This means you are only a quick Uber ride away from all the lights and action of a larger city without the traffic headaches. Allen offers easy access to the metropolitan area's job opportunities, cultural attractions, and entertainment. This proximity adds to its appeal, allowing residents to enjoy the conveniences of a big city while retreating to the relative calm of their suburban enclave. The town itself is rich with amenities, including top-rated schools, expansive parks, and a robust local economy that thrives on retail, healthcare, and professional services.
Allen stands out as a suburban haven with a reputation for safety, bolstered by crime rates significantly lower than the national average. Residents of Allen enjoy a sense of security in a community where violent crime and property crime are markedly below U.S. norms. This safety is no accident—it reflects proactive efforts by local law enforcement and community programs that prioritize crime prevention and neighborhood well-being. The Allen Police Department is deeply engaged with residents, using outreach initiatives, neighborhood watch programs, and regular communication to keep the town secure.
Allen’s cost of living is higher than the national average but aligns with the standard for high-quality suburbs in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The housing market offers a mix of options, from modern developments to established neighborhoods, catering to families, professionals, and retirees. With its combination of safety, excellent amenities, and economic opportunities, Allen is an attractive option for those seeking a balance of suburban tranquility and urban convenience.
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2. Frisco
Population: 225,007
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 196
Most Recent Number of Non-Violent Crimes: 3,113
Most Common Crime: Property
Located 25 miles north of downtown Dallas, Frisco has been one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States for two decades, and Money magazine recognizes it as one of the top 100 places to live in the nation. It’s home to the Dallas Cowboys world headquarters as well as plenty of family-friendly activities and events.
Frisco also consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the United States, with crime rates significantly below the national average. Violent crime is remarkably low, offering a strong sense of security. The city has a proactive approach to safety, with community policing programs that foster collaboration between residents and law enforcement. Initiatives like neighborhood watch groups and educational outreach programs ensure a safe and connected community atmosphere.
Enjoy the suburban feel where proximity to Dallas and Fort Worth means residents can take advantage of cultural events, sports, and entertainment, all while living in a quieter and safer environment. The city itself boasts a range of attractions, from upscale shopping and dining to recreational spaces like the sprawling parks and sports complexes, including The Star, the Dallas Cowboys' headquarters.
The economy in Frisco is thriving, thanks to a blend of corporate hubs, retail businesses, and an emerging tech scene. The cost of living is higher than the national average but remains reasonable compared to other major metropolitan suburbs, especially given the quality of life it offers. The housing market features a mix of new developments, luxurious homes, and more affordable options, catering to a wide range of buyers. With highly rated schools, exceptional infrastructure, and abundant recreational opportunities, Frisco is a magnet for those looking for an all-encompassing lifestyle.
Frisco's safety, strong economy, and family-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal spot for anyone seeking a new place to call home. If you’re looking to settle down in the DFW Area, explore new homes in Frisco.
3. League City
Population: 116,320
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 132
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 1,412
Most Common Crime: Property
Located in Galveston County — still within the greater Houston metro area — League City makes a great home for those wanting the city life, as well as a slice of the beach life. It offers several waterside resorts that are refreshing on those days when the temperature soars. The school system ranks well nationally. Another major perk is that the University of Texas Medical Branch offers advanced health care services through its League City Campus.
League City’s unique character stems from its fusion of coastal beauty, small-town warmth, and big-city accessibility. Attractions like Clear Lake, with its boating and fishing opportunities, and a lively downtown scene provide both recreation and culture. With its enviable combination of safety, affordability, and amenities, League City makes a compelling case for anyone considering a move to the Houston metropolitan area.
League City enjoys a reputation for being a safe and family-friendly community, with crime rates generally lower than the national average. Violent crime in League City is particularly rare, with rates significantly below the national benchmark, while property crime also trends on the lower end compared to similarly sized cities. These statistics offer reassurance to prospective residents seeking peace of mind in their choice of home.
The perks of living in League City extend beyond its safety. The economy thrives on a mix of healthcare, education, retail, and proximity to the NASA Johnson Space Center, with numerous employment opportunities nearby. The cost of living remains competitive, and the housing market is robust. This affordability, paired with excellent schools, scenic parks, and waterfront views, makes League City a top pick for families and professionals alike.
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4. Flower Mound
Population: 79,445
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 59
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 539
Most Common Crime: Property
This suburb of Dallas-Fort Worth derived its name from a 12.5-acre mound covered in flowers. Flower Mound ranks as one of the safest in the country, with crime rates far below the national average. Violent crime is exceptionally low, reflecting a strong sense of community and effective law enforcement. Programs like Neighborhood Watch and community engagement initiatives foster a secure environment, while the town's police department emphasizes proactive policing and partnerships with residents to maintain safety.
The area is known for its excellent schools, family-friendly parks, and recreational opportunities, making it especially appealing to families. The economy is robust, supported by a mix of local businesses and proximity to major employment hubs in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Housing is a bit pricier than the Texas average, reflecting the area’s desirability, but the cost of living is still competitive compared to other affluent suburbs across the country.
Flower Mound’s brings a balance of modern conveniences paired with a small-town feel. Residents enjoy cultural attractions, outdoor activities along the Grapevine Lake shoreline, and a well-planned community with plenty of green space. For anyone seeking a safe, vibrant, and accessible place to call home, Flower Mound stands out as a compelling choice.
5. McKinney
Population: 213,509
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 224
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 1,937
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
McKinney is one of the oldest north-central Texas towns, where you can choose a quaint Victorian home or a sprawling Texas-sized five-bedroom residence. Located 30 miles north of Dallas, it’s home to the Landon Winery and the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary. McKinney is becoming one of the state’s fastest-growing economies due to the presence of manufacturing and tech companies. The top employers include Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems and Globe Life Insurance.
Safety and community pride converge. With a crime rate well below the national average, McKinney ranks as one of the safer places to live in Texas. Residents enjoy a sense of security, thanks in part to proactive public safety programs like neighborhood watch initiatives and a dedicated police force committed to community engagement.
Its historic downtown is a gem, filled with unique boutiques, locally owned restaurants, and a vibrant arts scene, setting McKinney apart from other suburbs. The city has the ability to feel like a small town while being part of the dynamic Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Residents can enjoy cultural events, concerts, and sports in Dallas while returning home to McKinney's laid-back atmosphere.
The cost of living is reasonable for the quality of life offered, though housing prices have been rising as more people discover the city's appeal. Families are drawn here for the highly rated schools, parks, and recreational opportunities, while professionals appreciate the proximity to major employment hubs.
Choosing McKinney as a home means embracing a lifestyle where safety, community, and opportunity align beautifully. Find your McKinney dream home on NewHomeSource today.
6. Carrollton
Population: 132,918
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 227
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 2,026
Most Common Crime: Property
Carrollton is the 23rd most populous city in the state and offers a suburban feel, with a quick 25-minute trip to Dallas. Crime rates here are generally in line with or slightly better than the national average, particularly for violent crime. The city emphasizes community-oriented policing and strong neighborhood watch programs to foster a sense of security. Initiatives like "Coffee with a Cop" encourage open dialogue between law enforcement and residents, ensuring that public safety remains a collaborative effort.
Carrollton benefits from its proximity to Dallas and Fort Worth while maintaining a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. This unique position makes it easy to commute to larger urban areas for work or entertainment while enjoying the relative tranquility of suburban life. Carrollton stands out for its diverse community, excellent schools, and abundant parks, offering a vibrant yet grounded lifestyle.
The housing market in Carrollton is competitive but manageable, with a range of options from modern apartments to spacious single-family homes. The cost of living is reasonable compared to larger metropolitan areas. The local economy is robust, driven by sectors like technology, healthcare, and retail.
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7. Plano
Population: 290,190
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 470
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 4,854
Most Common Crime: Property
Plano, Texas takes pride with crime rates significantly lower than the national average. The low crime rate reflects a strong commitment to public safety, supported by an engaged police force and community-focused initiatives. Programs like neighborhood watch groups, active community policing, and robust emergency response systems make residents feel secure.
Located just 20 miles north of Dallas, Plano offers the perks of suburban tranquility alongside the benefits of easy access to a major metropolitan area. Dallas’ thriving arts scene, professional sports, and diverse dining options are all within a short drive, while Plano itself boasts a more laid-back vibe. Unique to Plano are its sprawling corporate campuses, as the city is home to headquarters for major companies like Toyota North America, Frito-Lay, and J.C. Penney. These economic pillars have created a vibrant job market, making Plano a magnet for professionals and families alike.
Plano combines an upscale lifestyle with affordability. The median home price is higher than the national average, but this reflects the city's desirability, excellent schools, and abundant amenities. The housing market is competitive, offering everything from modern townhomes to expansive single-family properties in master-planned communities.
Plano is a great choice just for its 700-plus restaurants. Residents have access to 81 acute-care hospitals and 84 parks that have interconnecting bike trails. Plano, which is anything but plain, is a great place to retire as well.
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8. Richardson
Population: 117,435
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 149
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 2,410
Most Common Crime: Property
Richardson is an inner suburb about 20 miles northeast of Dallas. Looking for a blend of suburban tranquility and urban connectivity? Richardson delivers. The city is known for its relatively low crime rates. Richardson’s violent crime rate is notably below the U.S. average, and property crime rates are comparable, reflecting its reputation as a safe and welcoming community. Safety programs such as community policing and neighborhood watch groups are active here, ensuring that residents feel secure. The Richardson Police Department works closely with locals to maintain a high standard of public safety and trust.
Richardson enjoys close proximity to one of the largest metropolitan areas in Texas. This location allows residents to tap into the job market, cultural amenities, and entertainment options of Dallas while enjoying a quieter lifestyle. The city itself is home to the Telecom Corridor, a hub for tech companies and innovation, making it a hotspot for employment opportunities in the technology and telecommunications industries. Richardson is home to The University of Texas at Dallas and Blue Cross and Blue Shield, as well as another 5,000 businesses. GEICO also has a regional hub nestled here. The economic strength of the area is evident, with low unemployment and a robust local economy supporting diverse businesses.
The cost of living in Richardson is competitive, reflecting its desirability and strong housing market. Home prices offer a range of options, from affordable starter homes to more upscale properties, making it suitable for a variety of lifestyles. With top-rated schools, well-maintained parks, and recreational facilities, Richardson is a great choice for potential Texas homeowners. Its unique blend of safety, economic opportunity, and proximity to Dallas makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a new place to call home.
Looking for a place to retire? Consider this charming city — it’s rated one of the top five retirement spots in Texas.
9. Round Rock
Population: 130,406
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 179
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 2,805
Most Common Crime: Property
Round Rock is located in central Texas, about 15 miles north of Austin, and is one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. Round Rock has been known for its excellent schools for more than 150 years, and property taxes are among the lowest in the region, making it a great city for people looking to buy new homes. It’s also home to the Round Rock Express minor league baseball team that plays at Dell Diamond.
Round Rock is often celebrated for its safety, with crime rates that are significantly below the national average. This reputation for safety is bolstered by strong community policing efforts and initiatives designed to engage residents in keeping neighborhoods secure. Programs such as neighborhood watch groups and youth outreach initiatives play a big role.
What sets Round Rock apart is its blend of small-town hospitality with the perks of a thriving local economy. Major employers such as Dell Technologies, headquartered in the city, provide ample job opportunities, and Round Rock's strategic location along the I-35 corridor ensures access to a wide array of industries. A new addition to the area is the Kalahari Resort with convention space, a water park, and dining.
The housing market here offers a mix of modern developments and family-friendly neighborhoods, though rising demand has pushed prices above the national median in recent years. Still, the relatively low cost of living compared to other high-growth areas in Texas makes it an attractive option for new homeowners.
Residents are drawn to its well-rated schools, extensive park system, and a growing array of dining and entertainment options. For anyone seeking a balanced lifestyle that combines safety, economic opportunity, and accessibility to big-city amenities, Round Rock emerges as a compelling choice.
10. Sugar Land
Population: 108,515
Most Recent Number of Violent Crimes: 79
Most Recent Number of Nonviolent Crimes: 1,400
Most Common Crime: Property
Sugar Land derived its enchanting name from the fact that once upon a time, it was a sugar plantation. It is now the headquarters of Imperial Sugar. About 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston, Sugar Land is known as a great winter vacation spot and is host to many events and annual festivities and fairs. This affluent town is a suburban gem near Houston.
It consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the state and the nation. Crime rates in Sugar Land are well below the national average, with violent crime notably lower, providing peace of mind for families and individuals alike. The city actively invests in public safety through its dedicated police department and community engagement initiatives, such as neighborhood watch programs and citizen police academies. These efforts foster a culture of mutual responsibility and ensure residents feel secure.
Just 25 miles southwest of Houston, Sugar Land is known for its master-planned communities and abundant green spaces. The city is a blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility. Its attractions include the Sugar Land Town Square, bustling with restaurants, shopping, and events, as well as the Smart Financial Centre, a venue for concerts and performances. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Brazos River and numerous parks provide plenty of recreational opportunities.
Economically, Sugar Land benefits from a diversified base, with key sectors including healthcare, energy, and retail. Companies like Fluor Corporation and Schlumberger have a significant presence, contributing to the city’s stability. While the cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, it reflects the area’s high quality of life, excellent schools, and robust infrastructure.
The housing market offers a range of options, from affordable starter homes to luxurious estates, making it an attractive choice for families and professionals. Sugar Land’s safety, amenities, and prime location put it on the list!
All data are taken from FBI U.S. crime statistics.
Other Texas Resources
Best And Worst Things About Living In Texas
Most Affordable Cities in Texas
Comprehensive Guide to Building a House in Texas
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Texas
Best Barndominium Builders in Texas
Moving To Dallas? Here’s Your Relocation Guide
Best and Worst Things About Living In Dallas
Is Houston a Good Place to Live?
Best Houston Suburbs to Live In
Moving to Austin? Here’s Our Relocation Guide
Best Neighborhoods to Live in Austin
Heather Allen
Heather Allen is a freelance writer who began her career 20 years ago at a small Texas NBC affiliate, while attending SFASU. She’s written blogs on a diverse range of topics.