A total of 94,673 homes in Austin have a moderate or greater wildfire risk, making it the highest-risk city outside of California, according to a 2024 report from property data company CoreLogic.
The January 2025 Los Angeles-area wildfires caused an estimated $52 billion to $57 billion in damage. The devastation of wildfires is an ongoing risk in areas around the United States. What elevates this risk, and what can residents in high-risk cities like Austin do to prepare?
Key Takeaways
- Climate change and human behavior are key risk factors for wildfire.
- Los Angeles; Riverside, California; San Diego; Sacramento; and Austin are the top five metro areas at risk of wildfire.
- Nearly 100,000 Austin homes are at risk of wildfire.
- People who live in high-risk areas can evaluate their insurance coverage and prepare a plan in case a wildfire does start.
What Drives Wildfire Risk?
Climate change is a significant factor influencing the risk of wildfire. Rising temperatures and drought make fires more likely, and these fires can be more severe. Weather conditions, such as strong winds and the amount of dry trees and brush also fuel wildfires.
Human behavior plays a role in wildfire risk. Humans are responsible for causing approximately 85% of wildfires in the U.S. Unattended campfires, improperly disposed of cigarettes, burning debris, and arson can cause wildfires.
What Are the Riskiest Metro Areas for Wildfire in the US?
California, Colorado, and Texas have the highest number of homes at risk of wildfire. The top five metro areas with homes at risk include:
- Los Angeles: 245,670 homes
- Riverside, Calif.: 210,859 homes
- San Diego: 138,600 homes
- Sacramento: 100,814 homes
- Austin: 94,673 homes
Austin Has the Highest Risk Outside of California
High temperatures, drought, and dense vegetation fuel the risk of wildfires in Austin. Homes located in the city’s wildland-urban interface (WUI) are at the highest risk. The Austin metro area has been one of the fastest-growing areas in the U.S. over the past decade, which has placed even more homeowners at wildfire risk.
What You Can Do If You Live in a City with High Risk
Austin is leveraging tactics like prescribed burns to reduce the risk of wildfire. Prescribed burns can improve, boost forest health, and encourage the growth of native plants.
Residents in high-risk areas also have a role to play. New and remodeled homes can adopt an updated code that prioritizes fire-resistant materials.
You can also take some simple maintenance steps to reduce risk, such as:
- Leaving space between your home’s outside walls and any vegetation.
- Clearing gutters and downspouts of flammable debris.
- Responsibly disposing of tree limbs and leaves that could fuel fires.
Risk reduction is important, but you also need a plan in case a wildfire does happen. Evaluate your homeowner’s insurance and its coverage for wildfire damage. Keep photo and video documentation of your home’s contents in case you need to file a claim. Establish an evacuation route, and make sure you have a plan for what to take with you, including pets and important documents.
The Bottom Line
Wildfires are expected to increase in frequency and intensity going forward, driven by climate change. People who live in high-risk areas, like Austin, will need to consider the potential danger to their homes and lives and prepare a plan in case of wildfire.