City of Austin

City of Austin Earns Top Score on 2025 Municipal Equality Index

City of Austin Achieves 100% on 2025 Municipal Equality Index, Reflecting Commitment to LGBTQIA+ Inclusion

November 19, 2025 -- The City of Austin received a top score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation’s 2025 Municipal Equality Index (MEI). This national benchmarking tool evaluates how well cities support LGBTQ+ communities through inclusive laws, policies, and services. Austin is proud to have maintained its perfect score from 2024.

Developed by the HRC, the MEI assesses more than 500 municipalities across the country in areas such as non-discrimination laws, municipal employment practices, city services, law enforcement, and leadership. A score is of 100 represents the highest standard of inclusion. “Austin loves its people. They’re what makes Austin so special. We are and will be committed to policies and practices that ensure every resident, regardless of identity, feels safe, supported, and valued,” said Mayor Kirk Watson.

With an estimated 90,000 LGBTQIA+ residents in the Austin metro area, this recognition highlights the City’s continued commitment to fostering a welcoming environment and a strong sense of belonging for all. “Another high score on the Municipal Equality Index is a clear reflection of our City’s commitment to making every resident feel welcome” said Genesis Gavino, City of Austin’s Chief of Staff.  “Removing barriers so everyone has the opportunity and support to thrive remains our priority.”

Austin is home to one of the highest per capita LGBTQIA+ populations in the United States, ranking just behind the Bay Area and Portland.

To learn more about the Human Rights Campaign, the Municipal Equality Index, or view scores of cities across the country, please visit thehrcfoundation.org.  

View the City of Austin’s full MEI scorecard here.