Top 20 Safest Cities in the USA: Low Crime, Financial Stability & More

When choosing a place to live or visit, personally I think safety is one of the most important factors to consider. Whether you’re planning to relocate, looking for a peaceful retirement spot, or just seeking a safe travel destination, knowing which cities offer the best security is essential.

WalletHub recently released a 2024 report in which they ranked the safest cities in the US. They did so by analyzing data based on the following three main factors:

• Home and Community Safety (violent crime rates, property crimes, and emergency preparedness)
• Natural Disaster Risk (earthquakes, wildfires, hurricanes, floods, etc.)
• Financial Security (unemployment rates, debt levels, and overall economic stability)

This report comes at a time when the issue of safety is a major concern for many Americans. With almost 500 mass shootings, billions of dollars lost to climate disasters and over 13,000 deaths connected to gun violence in 2024 alone, more people are looking for secure places to settle.

As an avid traveler who has explored cities across the globe, I know how different cities offer different types of safety… some feel secure because of low crime rates, while others have strong community support and economic stability. Based on WalletHub’s study, here are the top safest cities in the USA as of 2025.

1. South Burlington, Vermont

South Burlington takes the top spot as the safest city in America. This small but thriving city has one of the lowest crime rates in the country. It also has low unemployment rates, excellent healthcare access, and a strong sense of community. Natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes are rare in Vermont, making it a very stable place to live.

Why it’s safe: Extremely low violent crime, strong economy, and low natural disaster risks.

2. Casper, Wyoming

Casper may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking about safety, but this hidden gem in Wyoming has been ranked as one of the safest places in the US. The crime rate is low, and the cost of living is affordable. Since Wyoming has few natural disaster threats, Casper is a great place for those looking for a peaceful life.

Why it’s safe: Low crime, strong financial stability, and minimal natural disasters.

3. Warwick, Rhode Island

Located on the beautiful Rhode Island coastline, Warwick is one of the safest cities on the East Coast. The city has a low crime rate and strong economic stability, making it an excellent place for families and retirees. It also has great healthcare services and a strong community presence.

Why it’s safe: Low property and violent crime, strong local economy, and great emergency preparedness.

4. Burlington, Vermont

Another Vermont city in the top 5 safest cities, Burlington is known for its low crime, excellent healthcare, and strong environmental safety. It has a small-town charm with a focus on sustainability and outdoor activities.

Why it’s safe: Clean environment, low crime, and great healthcare services.

5. Boise, Idaho

Boise has been gaining popularity in recent years for its affordable living, low crime rate, and growing job market. It has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country and offers great outdoor opportunities.

Why it’s safe: Low unemployment, good public safety measures, and a strong job market.

6. Yonkers, New York

While New York City has its fair share of safety concerns, Yonkers stands out as a safe alternative just north of NYC. This city has low violent crime rates, good economic stability, and great public services.

Why it’s safe: Close to NYC but much safer, strong economy, and low violent crime.

7. Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Cedar Rapids is known for its friendly atmosphere, strong local economy, and low crime rate. The city has invested in disaster preparedness and has strong community engagement programs.

Why it’s safe: Community-focused city with strong emergency response systems.

8. Columbia, Maryland

Columbia is consistently ranked as one of the safest and most livable cities in America. It has a low crime rate, excellent schools, and strong economic opportunities.

Why it’s safe: Low crime, high education levels, and strong financial stability.

9. Portland, Maine

Portland is not only one of the safest cities in the US, but it’s also one of the most beautiful coastal destinations. It has low crime rates and excellent public services.

Why it’s safe: Great healthcare, safe communities, and scenic coastal living.

10. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach is a popular travel destination known for its beautiful beaches and low crime rates. It has strong public services and a low risk of natural disasters.

Why it’s safe: Safe for tourists and residents, with good public safety policies.

11. Irvine, California

Irvine has consistently been ranked as one of the safest cities in America. Located in Orange County, this city is known for its low violent crime rate, excellent public schools, and high employment opportunities. With its well-planned neighborhoods and high-tech industries, Irvine attracts families and professionals alike.

Why it’s safe: Low crime, high-paying job opportunities, and a strong education system.

12. Fargo, North Dakota

North Dakota’s largest city, Fargo, is one of the most peaceful places to live in the US. Despite its cold winters, Fargo has a tight-knit community, low unemployment rates, and a very low crime rate. The cost of living is also reasonable compared to other cities of similar size.

Why it’s safe: Strong sense of community, low crime, and stable economy.

13. Chesapeake, Virginia

Chesapeake is one of the safest cities in Virginia, offering a suburban lifestyle with access to nature, good schools, and a strong local economy. The city has low violent crime rates and a high quality of life, making it a great choice for families.

Why it’s safe: Low crime, excellent schools, and access to nature.

14. Missoula, Montana

Missoula may not be the biggest city, but it ranks high for safety and quality of life. It has a low crime rate, a strong outdoor culture, and a friendly community. Wildlife and scenic beauty make it a favorite for nature lovers.

Why it’s safe: Low crime, strong outdoor lifestyle, and welcoming community.

15. Nashua, New Hampshire

Nashua is one of the safest cities in New England, known for low crime, good schools, and economic stability. It offers the charm of a small town with the convenience of being close to Boston.

Why it’s safe: Low crime, proximity to Boston, and great schools.

16. Juneau, Alaska

Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is one of the safest and most unique cities in the US. The crime rate is low, and the city enjoys a stable economy thanks to tourism, fishing, and government jobs. Though it’s remote, it offers stunning scenery and a peaceful lifestyle.

Why it’s safe: Low crime, stable economy, and breathtaking nature.

17. Vancouver, Washington

Vancouver, Washington, offers the best of both worlds… affordable living with easy access to Portland, Oregon. The city has low crime rates, a growing job market, and strong community initiatives.

Why it’s safe: Low crime, close to Portland, and economic opportunities.

18. Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu is not just a tropical paradise, it’s also one of the safest major cities in the US. While it’s a tourist hub, it has strict safety policies, excellent public services, and a strong local economy.

Why it’s safe: Low violent crime, tourism safety, and strong emergency response systems.

19. Madison, Wisconsin

Madison is a top-ranked city for safety, education, and quality of life. As a college town, it has a youthful, progressive atmosphere and low crime rates.

Why it’s safe: Low crime, high education levels, and a vibrant community.

20. Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville is an emerging tech hub with low crime and strong economic growth. The city has a low cost of living and a growing job market in engineering, defense, and technology.

Why it’s safe: Strong economy, low crime, and good job opportunities.

Why Safety Matters When Choosing a City

To me, safety isn’t just about avoiding crime. I also think it includes the following:

• financial stability
• healthcare access
• protection from natural disasters

Some cities may have low crime rates but struggle with financial instability, while others may be economically strong but have high crime rates.

As someone who has traveled extensively, I can say that the safest cities tend to have strong community connections, well-managed public services, and a high quality of life. Whether you’re considering moving to a new city or just looking for a safe travel destination, these rankings can help you make an informed decision.

Finding the right place to live or visit requires considering multiple factors beyond just crime rates. South Burlington, Casper, and Warwick are among the safest cities, but each city on this list offers a unique mix of security, economy, and environment.

If you’re thinking about moving to a safer city in 2025, researching each location’s cost of living, job opportunities, and community vibe can help you find the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What makes a city “safe”?
A: Safety is measured by crime rates, financial stability, and natural disaster risks.

Q: Which US state has the safest cities?
A: Vermont, Idaho, and Maryland have multiple cities ranked among the safest.

Q: Is a city with low crime always a better place to live?
A: Not necessarily. Financial security and natural disaster risks also matter.

Q: What is the safest big city in the USA?
A: Virginia Beach and Honolulu are some of the safest big cities.

Q: Are these rankings reliable?
A: WalletHub’s rankings are based on multiple safety metrics, making them credible.