Safest And Most Dangerous Places in Lubbock TX In 2026
Know where to live smart
Lubbock is a city known for its strong student culture, Texan roots, and growing urban development, attracting an increasing number of students and young professionals due to its affordable cost of living and the presence of Texas Tech University, which is one of the largest universities in the state. According to the latest census, the population stands at approximately 255,000. At Texas Tech University, nearly 40,000 students reside in the city or nearby student accommodations, creating a significant portion of the local community.
With options ranging from slow, quiet suburban neighborhoods to modern apartment communities near campus, the city has a lot to offer.
However, when Lubbock is discussed, the perspectives vary widely. Some individuals highlight affordable housing, cozy cafes, and convenient transportation, while others bring up concerns about property crimes, theft, and assaults. It is necessary to know the safest and most dangerous places in Lubbock TX, for students who are planning to move to Lubbock, TX. In this guide to the safest and most dangerous places in Lubbock, TX, we break down where the city is safe and student-friendly and where extra caution is needed. This blog helps you understand the city, its crime categories, safest places, and dangerous places, so you can choose the right places.
Understanding the Crime rates in Lubbock, TX
The total crime rate in Lubbock, TX is approximately 15-50 per 1000 residents. It can appear higher than average due to the property crime rate, which is around 40~42 per 1000 residents. Primary crimes include larceny, theft, burglary, and motor vehicle theft. Unlawful entry cases, such as entering homes or unlocked cars cases occur frequently in student-dense areas and residential areas.
| Crime Category | Type of Crime | Common Places / Simple Understanding |
|---|---|---|
| Violent Crime | Murder & Manslaughter | Rare but serious; usually linked to personal disputes, often in residential areas or late-night locations |
| Violent Crime | Sexual Assault | Occur near bars, parties, isolated areas, or private residences; often involves known individuals |
| Violent Crime | Robbery | Parking lots, convenience stores, gas stations, or poorly lit streets where force or threat is used |
| Violent Crime | Aggravated Assault | Common near nightlife areas, domestic settings, or during conflicts; often involves weapons |
| Property Crime | Burglary | Homes, student apartments, and dorm-adjacent areas where properties are unattended |
| Property Crime | Larceny / Theft | Very common; includes shoplifting, bike theft, and stolen packages in malls or campuses |
| Property Crime | Motor Vehicle Theft | Apartment parking lots, street parking, and areas without security cameras |
| Property Crime | Arson | Least common; abandoned buildings, vehicles, or empty properties |
| Other Crimes | Drug-Related Offenses | Near campuses, nightlife zones, and residential neighborhoods; includes possession and dealing |
| Other Crimes | Vandalism | Schools, parks, bus stops, and student housing areas open late at night |
Safest Places In Lubbock, TX
Lubbock has several safe places and has a good quality of life; some areas stand out for their safety and residential atmosphere and are very popular among students and young professionals. When the topic of the safest and the most dangerous places in Lubbock TX comes up, communities like Melonie Park and Quaker Heights are often brought up.
1. Melonie Park
Safety index: 18 crimes per 1000 residents
Population: 3200
Nearest university: Texas Tech University.
Meloni Park is known for its strong community presence, residential character, consistent lower crime rate in Lubbock, and well-patrolled area. This all makes it one of the safest places and a popular choice among students.
2. Tech Terrace
Safety index: 25 crimes per 1000 residents
Population: 4000
Nearest university: Texas Tech University, 1 mile
Tech Terrace is popular among students because of its walkability and proximity to campus. Here, safety measures include campus-area patrols, community watch groups, and lit streets. While minor property crimes are seen, students often talk about a lively and safer environment
3. Maxy Park
Safety Index: 38 crimes per 1000 residents
Population: 2800
Nearest university: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX ~3 mile
Maxy Park has higher reported property crime, but has strong and active police patrolling. Students live here often because it's the safest place in Labbuck, TX.
4. Maedgen Area
Safety index: 30 crimes per 1000 residents
Population: 1900
Nearest university: Texas Tech University, 1.5 miles,
The Maedgen area has proximity to Texas Tech facilities and also has a high police presence. The neighborhood includes a mix of students and long-term residents. Students choose this because of its security and relatively safe environment.
Most Dangerous Places Lubbock, TX
Lubbock is known as a strong college city due to Texas Tech University and a large student population, regardless of certain places reporting higher crime rates than others, making it necessary to be aware of the dangerous areas in Lubbock, TX.
1. Jackson Area
Crime grade : D
Population: ~4500
Total crimes: 420 incidents.
Crime profile: high rate of property crime and moderate violent crime.
The Jackson area consistently reports higher crime. Property crimes such as larceny theft, burglary, vehicle theft, and vandalism are common. Violent crimes are occasional. Due to fewer safety patrols and limited student housing area, it is one of the most dangerous places in Lubbock,TX.
2. Dunbar-Manhattan Heights
Crime grade : D-
Population: ~3800 residents
Total crimes: 390 incidents.
Crime profile: high rate of property crime and moderate violent crime.
This neighborhood experiences elevated crime rates, particularly in theft, robbery, and assaults related incidents. While community efforts are ongoing, students may feel unsafe due to fewer monitored residential complexes.
3. Chatman Hill/ Chatman Park
Crime grade : D
Population: ~2900 residents
Total crimes: 310 incidents.
Crime profile: high rate of vandalism and burglary, and vehicle theft.
Chatman Hills sees frequent reports of break-ins and car-related crimes, as well as vandalism and burglary. Students living here often face risks related to unsecured parking and very limited surveillance.
4. Heart of Lubbock
Crime grade: C-
Population:~6000 residents
Total crimes:460 incidents.
Crime profile: high rate of theft and disorderly conduct.
Despite being at the center of Lubbock, TX, Heart of Lubbock records higher crime levels, particularly in property-related crimes. Students encounter issues like vehicle break-ins and package thefts. There is very limited nighttime safety.
The most dangerous places and areas to avoid in Lubbock, TX, include the Jackson area, Dunbar, Chatman Hills, and the heart of Lubbock. They show higher crime rates than other Rochester neighborhoods. It is important to take necessary precautions while visiting.
| Safety Focus | Safety Tip |
|---|---|
| Choosing Housing | Always select accommodation in the safer places, and research the safest and most dangerous places in Lubbock TX before booking. |
| Night Travel | Avoid walking alone after dark, especially when passing through dangerous places in Lubbock TX. |
| Protecting Valuables | Keep phones, laptops, and documents secure, as theft is more common outside the safest places in Lubbock TX. |
| Public Transport Awareness | Stay alert at bus stops and transit routes that pass through dangerous places in Lubbock TX. |
| Emergency Preparedness | Save emergency contacts and stay informed when moving between the safest and most dangerous places in Lubbock TX. |
Best and Safest Student Accommodations in Lubbock TX
International students are drawn to Texas Tech University, and visitors come to Lubbock due to its strong college culture, music heritage, and local attractions. International students are more confident when they relocate if they are well aware of the safest and most dangerous places in Lubbock, TX. When you relocate to a new country or city, finding the ideal area to live is crucial. There are several safer locations and student accommodations in Lubbock. Amber can help you if you are moving to Lubbock for academic purposes. Amber offers various safe booking choices, verified listings, and end-to-end support to assist you in finding a home away from home at affordable pricing.
Check out the following verified listings and enjoy a hassle-free booking experience with amber:
Raiders Pass- on 4th St offers student-friendly living with Wi-Fi, a gym, laundry, pools with hot tubs, a basketball court, and a shuttle to campus, with prices starting from $394/month
University Trails- on Main St provides pet-friendly apartments with a fitness center, pool, bike storage, free printing, and shuttle access, with prices starting from $479/month.
21 Hundred at Overton Park-on Mac Davis Ln features Wi-Fi, study lounges, swimming pools, BBQ grills, and close proximity to campus, with prices starting from $554/month.
The Village at Overton Park- near TTU offers a fitness center, a pool with a hot tub, covered patios, and free printing, with prices starting from $529/month
University Pointe- on Glenna Goodacre Blvd delivers a student-focused community with Wi-Fi, a gym, pool, and basketball court, with prices starting from $409/month
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lubbock TX safe for students?
Yes, it is considered moderately safe if students live in safer neighborhoods and follow basic precautions.
Which are the best areas to live in, Lubbock, TX?
Melonie Park, Quaker Heights, Tech Terrace, Raintree, and Lakeridge are some of the safest places in Lubbock, TX.
Which areas of Lubbock have the highest crime rate?
Various areas have high crime rates, like Jackson, Dunbar -Manhattan Heights, Heart of Lubbock, and Chatman Hills.
What are the dangerous places in Lubbock, TX?
Jackson area, Dunbar-Manhattan Heights, the heart of Lubbock and parts of Maxey Park neighborhoods are considered dangerous due to their higher crime levels.
What is the safest part of Lubbock Texas ?
The safest areas in Lubbock include Melonie Park, Tech Terrace, Maedgen Area, Maxey Park, and Trophy Club.