Based on crime statistics from 2011, Austin ranked as the third safest large city in the nation, up from fifth in 2010.

The Capital City also ranked as the safest “large” city in the state.

While most crime in Austin has gone down, Austin’s Police Chief Art Acevedo says property and violent crime in the downtown area is still a major problem.

Officials with the department said violent crime in Downtown Austin went up 16 percent in 2011, prompting a need for more officers in the area.

"We will roll out the unwelcome mat to where the crime is happening,” Chief Acevedeo said.

The police chief also said that many crimes could be prevented if certain precautions were taken. He said residents and visitors need to remember to lock their home and car doors and to make sure to never leave valuables in cars.