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: 107,787 165 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.45 chance of being a victim: 1 in 606 Total Crimes / 100k: 660

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.

Huntsville Population: 199,845 130 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.36 chance of being a victim: 1 in 770 Total Crimes / 100k: 835

Port St. Lucie Population: 195,773 99 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.27 chance of being a victim: 1 in n/a Total Crimes / 100k: 848

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.

Naperville Population: 147,734 64 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.18 chance of being a victim: 1 in n/a Total Crimes / 100k: 922

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.

Allen Population: 104,040 112 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.31 chance of being a victim: 1 in 896 Total Crimes / 100k: 935

McKinney Population: 191,197 105 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.29 chance of being a victim: 1 in 950 Total Crimes / 100k: 1,013

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.

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

violent crimes per day: 0.32 chance of being a victim: 1 in 854 Total Crimes / 100k: 1,052

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.

Simi Valley Population: 125,768 122 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.33 chance of being a victim: 1 in 823 Total Crimes / 100k: 1,091

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.

Elgin Population: 112,062 224 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.61 chance of being a victim: 1 in 446 Total Crimes / 100k: 1,107

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.

Thousand Oaks Population: 127,648 109 violent crimes per 100k

violent crimes per day: 0.30 chance of being a victim: 1 in 918 Total Crimes / 100k: 1,226

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.

Full list of the safest cities in the US

Rank	Location	Population	Violent Crimes /100k	Total Crimes /100k
1	Meridian	107,787	165	660
2	Huntsville	199,845	130	835
3	Port St. Lucie	195,773	99	848
4	Naperville	147,734	64	922
5	Allen	104,040	112	935
6	McKinney	191,197	105	1,013
7	Gilbert	248,349	117	1,052
8	Simi Valley	125,768	122	1,091
9	Elgin	112,062	224	1,107
10	Thousand Oaks	127,648	109	1,226
11	Miramar	140,479	171	1,254
12	Sterling Heights	132,296	168	1,279
13	Stamford	130,057	171	1,333
14	League City	105,410	114	1,333
15	Cary	169,177	104	1,335
16	Palm Bay	113,751	317	1,341
17	Surprise	139,007	100	1,350
18	Sugar Land	118,563	73	1,360
19	Olathe	139,216	234	1,381
20	Coral Springs	133,370	138	1,384
21	Murrieta	114,066	166	1,387
22	Elk Grove	173,370	187	1,390
23	Santa Clarita	212,519	178	1,401
24	Aurora	199,326	311	1,405
25	Joliet	147,323	406	1,409
26	Frisco	188,387	86	1,443
27	College Station	115,802	159	1,494
28	Peoria	172,109	212	1,504
29	Boise	228,057	270	1,512
30	Independence	117,139	201	1,528
31	Provo	116,886	175	1,532
32	Broken Arrow	108,875	205	1,560
33	Vista	100,659	372	1,574
34	Yonkers	200,183	346	1,603
35	Chandler	257,076	174	1,618
36	Garden Grove	172,800	184	1,621
37	Chula Vista	268,779	346	1,623
38	Irvine	272,694	87	1,633
39	Fontana	212,704	281	1,646
40	Carrollton	137,319	169	1,674
41	Roseville	138,860	245	1,683
42	Jersey City	262,652	284	1,720
43	Virginia Beach	450,882	95	1,752
44	Rochester	117,134	162	1,754
45	Pearland	125,817	106	1,775
46	Salinas	156,177	498	1,783
47	Grand Prairie	193,835	188	1,791
48	Laredo	260,571	426	1,792
49	Bridgeport	145,014	391	1,800
50	Santa Rosa	178,391	331	1,800

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.