Is San Angelo Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

San Angelo, Texas, sits in the lush Concho Valley, about 200 miles west of Waco.

While many would call it debatable, the city is part of West Texas.

As much as San Angelo is at a geographic intersection, it has a mixed landscape of history too.

In the late 17th century, Spanish explorers established a mission, aiming to convert local Native American tribes to Christianity and to establish a Spanish presence in the area.

The effort was short-lived.

It wasn’t until 1867 that Fort Concho was established, laying the foundation for the modern city of San Angelo.

This military post played a crucial role in protecting settlers and facilitating the growth of the community, which later thrived on cattle ranching and the wool industry.

The military presence returned during World War II when Goodfellow Air Force Base was established.

It is now one of the premier intelligence and reconnaissance sites across all military branches.

What looks like a more remote town of 100,000 people on the map surprises you upon arrival.

The city is ranked for its business landscape, best places for jobs, and top retirement communities.

It’s known as an oasis thanks to the fertile waters of the Concho River that wrap around town.

Over the years, San Angelo has balanced growth with preservation, maintaining its historic charm while embracing modern development.

Today, the city is known for its cultural vibrancy, welcoming community, and scenic beauty, reflecting its rich heritage and forward-looking spirit.

Warnings & Dangers in San Angelo

OVERALL RISK: LOW

There's a low risk in San Angelo with a variety of things to do indoors, outdoors, day and night.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Review the Concho Valley Transit maps to see if that fixed-route service offers what you need. Taxis, rideshares, and rental cars are also available. Any option is a low risk.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

This is a low risk, with just nine pickpockets over the past five years. Theft rates are much higher than the national average, however, so I would suggest using extra caution with all of your valuables.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

This is a medium risk due to the ongoing risk of severe weather throughout the year. That can mean flash flooding, tornadoes, and intense lightning. Wildfires and extreme heat are other risks. Be sure you're paying attention to the weather forecast while you're here.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Robbery rates are 67% lower than the national average, with only one in five being a highway robbery. That keeps the risk low but not low enough to let your guard down. There are still an average of six muggings a year.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

I'll call it a medium risk due to the presence of Goodfellow Air Force Base, but considering the base prides itself on surveillance, intelligence, and recon work, you can rest assured there's more security than risk.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Check local law enforcement social media sites for the latest scams. The local Better Business Bureau office and the state Attorney General’s office will have common scam tactics and protection advice. The most common scams here center on storm damage fraud, phone scams, and jury duty scams - none of which impact a tourist. The risk is low.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

There's a low risk for women, provided they use the same personal safety standards as they would in any new city. Stick with a friend or loved one, and don't walk around at night alone.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

The U.S. has strict standards for tap water per the Safe Water Drinking Act. Communities are required to provide a Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) once a year by July 1. The 2024 Water Quality Report for San Angelo shows no violations and full compliance. They also post monthly water quality testing, which is an added layer of help for you to review before you visit. One thing to note is that each June the city switches to a new chemical to clean the water. Some say it impacts the taste. Some hotels or rentals might have a water filter already installed, so ask.

Safest Places to Visit in San Angelo

The tourism website for the city is called Discover San Angelo.

One great resource in the “Get To Know San Angelo” section is the Frequently Asked Questions.

Just a heads-up – when you see the “Sheep Map,” that’s for a statue tour of sheep decorated by community groups, not real sheep.

Downtown San Angelo is a mix of Old West and classic frontier architecture filled with shops, restaurants, and artwork.

More information is available at the Downtown San Angelo website.

While you’re exploring, see how many of the “Art in Uncommon Spaces” displays you can find.

Located in the historic Santa Fe Depot, the Railway Museum of San Angelo chronicles the impact of the railway on the development of San Angelo and the surrounding area, featuring artifacts, photographs, and model trains.

A meticulously preserved 19th-century frontier fort, Fort Concho National Historic Landmark offers visitors a glimpse into the life of soldiers and pioneers with its museum exhibits, restored buildings, and living history events.

Situated on the Angelo State University campus, the Mayer Museum presents an array of natural history exhibits, including dinosaur fossils, minerals, and artifacts from various indigenous cultures.

If you only visit one museum in San Angelo, this should be the one.

The San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts showcases an impressive collection of American ceramics and regional art.

Its striking architecture and rotating exhibitions provide a vibrant cultural experience.

Miss Hattie’s Bordello Museum offers a unique and colorful look at the history of San Angelo’s red-light district, complete with period furnishings and fascinating stories from the past.

Tours are appropriate for all ages, but only as a parent or caretaker can you decide if you want to answer questions about a bordello.

Santa Fe Park is right on the river, with a river trail, fishing spots, playgrounds, and community sports fields.

You can also see the International Waterlily Collection here.

It features one of the world’s most diverse and extensive collections of waterlilies.

San Angelo is home to several picturesque lakes that offer recreational activities and scenic beauty.

Lake Nasworthy, a popular spot for boating, fishing, and watersports, provides numerous parks and campgrounds along its shores.

There’s even a beach that leads to a swimming area.

Twin Buttes Reservoir, a vast expanse ideal for fishing, wildlife viewing, and off-roading, attracts outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure.

You need a Limited Public Use Permit or an Annual Public Hunting Permit to use this resource.

O.C. Fisher Reservoir, located within San Angelo State Park, offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and birdwatching.

Bass, sunfish, and crappie are the top fish in this reservoir.

Just remember that all anglers need a fishing license in order to catch any fish.

Places to Avoid in San Angelo

There’s not really a bad part of town to avoid in San Angelo, but you should always stay on the main streets and highways to get around.

Don’t cut through unknown neighborhoods.

There’s a Facebook page called “Bad Drivers of San Angelo,” and that’s in addition to numerous complaints about the poor driving habits of locals.

You should watch a few of the videos just to learn basic defensive driving skills.

One of the biggest issues I’ve seen is the habitual running of red lights.

I live in a different state than Texas, but we have the same red light issue here.

It’s downright frustrating to know that your safety hinges on the selfish behavior of others.

In my community, most red lights have three to five cars blow right through before traffic can have the right-of-way.

At the same time, you don’t want to be “right” and then get in an accident, especially with the risk of injury and uninsured motorists.

Just give yourself extra time driving anywhere and keep your eyes on the road to look out for bad drivers.

Finally, the Cactus Hotel looks like an amazing spot to explore, especially if you love the Hilton brand.

However, you should know that it’s no longer open for lodging, only for special events.

Safety Tips for Traveling to San Angelo

So... How Safe Is San Angelo Really?

The violent crime rate is 35% lower than the national average and 30% lower than the state average.

Just 12% of violent crimes over the past five years have involved strangers.

More than half, 56%, were violent crimes that happened in private homes.

Theft rates are a different story.

Those are 49% higher than the national average, fueled by 42% of that being car burglaries or car accessory thefts.

On top of that, an average of four cars are stolen each week.

That number has been down 37% since 2020 when the numbers peaked.

One of the reasons theft is high is due to the “other” category of theft, which includes any theft that doesn’t fit into another designated category.

This would include things like appliance theft from construction projects or heavy machinery.

At the same time, the city has seen a rash of these types of thefts.

When the police department released the annual report in early 2024, they explained some of the reasons the crime rate has been down year to year and since 2016.

Between hiring 15 new officers, purchasing new crime-fighting technology, and creating an anti-crime unit, law enforcement has been able to deter crime and more quickly respond to crimes that happen.

One thing to keep an eye on centers around a statewide mandate to eliminate the juvenile curfew law, where applicable.

That includes San Angelo.

At least one city council member said this law would cause crime rates to go up in future years when it was removed in October 2023.

“I believe it’s atrocious what they are doing,” said City Council Member Larry Miller.

“It’s a legislative overreach of the worst kind.

If the state can dictate how we in San Angelo control juvenile behavior, then the state can do virtually anything it wants and hamper our self-government.”

Considering the nationwide increase in juvenile crime, the local leaders have a reason to be concerned.

However, only time will tell.

For now, San Angelo is safe to visit with just a few extra precautions when it comes to guarding your belongings.

How Does San Angelo Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

All international visitors need either a visa defining the purpose of the trip (tourist, work, school, etc.) or a visa waiver. Start the process using the Visa Wizard module on the U.S. State Department website. You’ll quickly find out which one you need. Also, keep in mind that your passport must be valid for at least six months after our trip, or you’ll need to apply for a new one.

Currency

Only the U.S. Dollar (USD) is accepted in the United States. International airports usually have a currency exchange desk on site, while regional airports won’t. Your home bank offers the lowest fees. Don't wait until you get to San Angelo to get cash. For those using credit cards, check to see if there’s a foreign transaction fee before you start racking up charges.

Weather

San Angelo gets all four seasons, with milder winter but still freezing temperatures at night from December through February. Summers get into the mid-90s for high temperatures, so bring comfortable, light-colored clothing that can handle excessive sweating in the heat. Bring comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen.

Airports

San Angelo has its own airport (SJT), but the flights are limited to American Airlines options and only to DFW airport. However, it would take you four hours to drive to DFW from San Angelo, so it's up to you to decide which option is best.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance goes into effect as soon as you purchase it. Comprehensive insurance offers the best protection and peace of mind.

San Angelo Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Texas - Safety by City