Top 10 safest cities in the US

Over the past few decades, crime rates in the United States have seen a notable decline, with the trend becoming particularly evident since the 1990s. This steady reduction in crime, supported by FBI data, highlights the progress made in creating safer environments for residents across many cities. The safest cities in the U.S. have consistently managed to maintain low violent and property crime rates per 100,000 people, often thanks to a combination of strong community initiatives, effective law enforcement, and thriving local economies. These cities provide a sense of security and peace of mind, making them appealing for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

When evaluating the safest cities in the U.S., the FBI's annual crime report is one of the most reliable tools. This report uses comprehensive data to compare the frequency of crimes such as assault, robbery, burglary, vehicle theft, and other incidents. Cities that rank high in safety have lower-than-average crime rates per 100,000 residents, reinforcing their reputation as secure places to live. These cities serve as models for urban safety and community well-being, showcasing how strategic policing and engaged citizens can contribute to a lower crime rate.

Meridian Population: 107,787 140 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.38 chance of being a victim: 1 in 712 Total Crimes / 100k: 771

Meridian stands out as the safest city in the U.S., largely due to its community-oriented approach to public safety and thoughtful urban planning. The Meridian Police Department is deeply integrated into the community, fostering trust through initiatives like their "Coffee with a Cop" program and regular neighborhood meetings, which help keep residents informed and engaged. Neighborhoods such as Bridgetower and Lochsa Falls are known for their quiet streets and close-knit feel, where neighbors look out for one another. The city’s numerous parks, such as Settlers Park and Bear Creek Park, are not only popular for recreation but are also designed with safety in mind, featuring well-lit paths, frequent patrols, and strong community presence. In addition, the city’s growing downtown area remains a hub of activity, but without the concerns of high crime, thanks to careful planning and active policing. Meridian's focus on maintaining a secure environment, even amid rapid growth, continues to make it a top choice for families and individuals seeking peace of mind.

Naperville Population: 147,734 52 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.14 chance of being a victim: 1 in n/a Total Crimes / 100k: 866

Naperville is frequently recognized as one of the safest cities in the U.S. due to its well-coordinated public safety programs and active community involvement. Known for its picturesque Riverwalk and historic downtown, Naperville balances vibrant city life with a secure, suburban feel. Neighborhoods like Ashbury and Tall Grass benefit from community policing efforts, where officers engage directly with residents through programs like the Citizens Police Academy. Naperville’s investment in safety extends to its public spaces, where parks like Centennial Beach are not only popular destinations but are also designed with safety in mind, making it a standout city for families and professionals alike.

Port St. Lucie Population: 195,773 117 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.32 chance of being a victim: 1 in 857 Total Crimes / 100k: 878

Port St. Lucie, FL, is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the U.S., thanks to its low crime rates and strong focus on community safety. The city's neighborhoods, such as Tradition and St. Lucie West, are known for their peaceful atmosphere and active community engagement, which helps deter crime. The Port St. Lucie Police Department works closely with residents through programs like Neighborhood Watch and the Citizens Police Academy, fostering a strong connection between law enforcement and the community. In addition, the city's well-maintained parks, recreational areas, and public spaces contribute to its secure environment, making Port St. Lucie an ideal place for families, retirees, and individuals seeking a safe and welcoming city to call home.

Elgin Population: 112,062 190 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.52 chance of being a victim: 1 in 527 Total Crimes / 100k: 942

Elgin, Illinois, is known for its proactive policing and community involvement, which contribute to its reputation as one of the safest cities in Illinois. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, like College Green and Bowes Creek, benefit from Elgin’s focus on safety through initiatives like the Resident Officer Program, where officers live within the community they serve. Elgin’s investment in modern technology, such as surveillance systems and a highly responsive police force, helps keep crime rates low. Its rich historic downtown, coupled with well-maintained parks like Lords Park, are popular gathering spots where residents feel secure, adding to Elgin's appeal as a safe and welcoming city.

Simi Valley Population: 125,768 95 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.26 chance of being a victim: 1 in n/a Total Crimes / 100k: 946

Simi Valley, California consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the country, largely due to its suburban layout and effective crime prevention strategies. Nestled between the hills of Ventura County, Simi Valley is home to neighborhoods like Wood Ranch and Big Sky, where residents benefit from low crime rates and active community engagement. The Simi Valley Police Department’s efforts, including the Volunteers in Policing program, keep the community informed and involved in maintaining public safety. Additionally, the city’s expansive parks, such as Rancho Simi Community Park, offer safe spaces for recreation, making Simi Valley an ideal place for families and individuals seeking peace and security.

Gilbert Population: 248,349 117 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.32 chance of being a victim: 1 in 858 Total Crimes / 100k: 1,133

Gilbert, AZ, is one of the safest cities in the U.S., largely due to its well-structured community programs and strong sense of civic responsibility. The town, which was once a quiet agricultural community, has transformed into a thriving suburban area where public safety is a top priority. Neighborhoods like Agritopia and The Islands are known for their safe, family-oriented environments, thanks to Gilbert’s investment in community policing and crime prevention technology. The Gilbert Police Department works closely with local schools and businesses to ensure security throughout the town, while community events like "National Night Out" foster close relationships between law enforcement and residents, contributing to the city’s consistently low crime rates.

McKinney Population: 191,197 114 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.31 chance of being a victim: 1 in 876 Total Crimes / 100k: 1,152

McKinney, TX, maintains its status as one of the safest cities in America through thoughtful urban planning and a community-focused approach to policing. In neighborhoods such as Craig Ranch and Adriatica Village, residents enjoy a peaceful environment due to the city’s focus on safety and its robust police presence. The McKinney Police Department regularly engages with the community through programs like Coffee with Cops and Citizens Police Academy, allowing residents to directly participate in safety discussions and initiatives. These efforts, combined with McKinney’s carefully designed parks, schools, and family-friendly amenities, contribute to the city’s impressive safety record.

Thousand Oaks Population: 127,648 58 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.16 chance of being a victim: 1 in n/a Total Crimes / 100k: 1,164

Thousand Oaks, CA, is known for being one of the safest cities in California, with its picturesque neighborhoods and well-maintained public spaces contributing to a sense of security and peace. Areas like Westlake Village and Dos Vientos Ranch are particularly noted for their low crime rates and active community involvement. The Thousand Oaks Police Department, which operates in partnership with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, emphasizes crime prevention through regular neighborhood patrols and community outreach programs. The city’s extensive park system, including Wildwood Regional Park, is designed with safety in mind, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor activities without concern, further enhancing the appeal of Thousand Oaks as a safe, family-friendly city.

Cary Population: 169,177 80 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.22 chance of being a victim: 1 in n/a Total Crimes / 100k: 1,185

Cary, NC, consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the U.S., thanks to its low crime rates and proactive approach to public safety. Neighborhoods such as Preston and Lochmere are known for their quiet, well-kept streets and active Neighborhood Watch programs. The Cary Police Department places a strong emphasis on community engagement, frequently hosting events like Public Safety Day that bring officers and residents together to discuss safety concerns and build relationships. The town’s focus on maintaining well-lit public areas, like the popular Bond Park and Koka Booth Amphitheatre, ensures that both residents and visitors feel safe, making Cary an attractive city for families and professionals alike.

Yonkers Population: 200,183 310 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.85 chance of being a victim: 1 in 323 Total Crimes / 100k: 1,226

Yonkers, NY, is one of the safest cities in America, with its commitment to public safety and revitalization playing a key role in its low crime rates. Neighborhoods like Crestwood and Colonial Heights benefit from Yonkers' strategic policing initiatives and community-based safety programs. The Yonkers Police Department is deeply involved in the community, working with local schools and civic groups to promote crime prevention and youth outreach programs. Yonkers’ waterfront redevelopment, which includes safe public spaces like the Hudson River Esplanade, is a testament to the city’s efforts to create secure and vibrant areas for residents and visitors, reinforcing its standing as one of the safest cities in the region.

Full list of the safest cities in the US

Rank	Location	Population	Violent Crimes /100k	Total Crimes /100k
1	Meridian	107,787	140	771
2	Naperville	147,734	52	866
3	Port St. Lucie	195,773	117	878
4	Elgin	112,062	190	942
5	Simi Valley	125,768	95	946
6	Gilbert	248,349	117	1,133
7	McKinney	191,197	114	1,152
8	Thousand Oaks	127,648	58	1,164
9	Cary	169,177	80	1,185
10	Yonkers	200,183	310	1,226
11	Santa Clarita	212,519	163	1,254
12	Stamford	130,057	193	1,362
13	Sterling Heights	132,296	205	1,374
14	League City	105,410	108	1,393
15	Olathe	139,216	224	1,432
16	Frisco	188,387	103	1,440
17	Boise	228,057	247	1,451
18	Elk Grove	173,370	202	1,514
19	Murrieta	114,066	274	1,519
20	Surprise	139,007	118	1,521
21	Joliet	147,323	511	1,530
22	Provo	116,886	147	1,547
23	Irvine	272,694	75	1,554
24	Fontana	212,704	287	1,574
25	Peoria	172,109	195	1,577
26	Laredo	260,571	317	1,602
27	Jersey City	262,652	220	1,605
28	Chula Vista	268,779	351	1,628
29	Sandy Springs	108,180	139	1,635
30	Bridgeport	145,014	408	1,650
31	El Paso	679,879	313	1,692
32	Virginia Beach	450,882	87	1,698
33	Santa Rosa	178,391	339	1,698
34	Sugar Land	118,563	90	1,706
35	Broken Arrow	108,875	156	1,765
36	Pearland	125,817	93	1,802
37	Huntsville	199,845	299	1,805
38	Vista	100,659	383	1,854
39	Carrollton	137,319	207	1,867
40	Clovis	112,663	188	1,922
41	Glendale	199,357	150	1,976
42	Carlsbad	114,411	209	1,980
43	Chandler	257,076	182	1,990
44	Ann Arbor	121,093	308	2,024
45	Roseville	138,860	163	2,048
46	Plano	288,870	158	2,054
47	El Cajon	103,249	469	2,078
48	Grand Prairie	193,835	203	2,091
49	Rochester	117,134	223	2,096
50	Palmdale	153,240	557	2,107

Methodology

The AreaVibes ranking of the safest cities in the U.S. is derived from data provided by the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program (UCR Program), which offers a detailed analysis of crime patterns nationwide. By gathering crime statistics from law enforcement agencies across the country, the UCR program ensures a reliable and consistent source of crime data. The rankings are based on the latest UCR data, focusing primarily on violent crimes such as assault, robbery, rape, and murder, as well as property crimes like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft.

To make comparisons fair across cities of different sizes, crime rates are standardized and reported per 100,000 residents. This method provides a balanced view of crime levels, allowing for an accurate comparison of safety regardless of population size. By using this standardized data, the rankings offer valuable insights into public safety, helping residents, policymakers, and local authorities better understand and address crime across various regions. For this list, we used cities that have a minimum population of 100,000 people.

Map of Violent Crime By State

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The interactive map above provides a comprehensive visual representation of the safest cities in America, showcasing areas with varying levels of crime. Utilizing a simple, color-coded system, the map allows users to easily distinguish between regions with high and low crime rates. This clear design helps users quickly identify states where crime is either more prevalent or less concentrated, offering a practical tool for understanding safety trends across the country.