Bruno Pugh
Sure, big cities might grab the headlines with rising crime stats, but tucked away in every corner of the country are communities that have managed to keep danger at bay. These towns aren’t just safe—they’re some of the safest places to live in the entire nation. As crime rates fluctuate nationwide, these 50 towns, highlighted by NeighborhoodScout, have defied the odds, offering peace of mind that’s becoming a rare commodity. Let’s take a closer look.
Bidgeport, Connecticut
With a population of over 25,000, this charming town has a crime rate so low you’d have to actively search for trouble to find it. With only 1.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, your chances of becoming a crime victim here are slimmer than finding a parking spot in downtown Bridgeport. In fact, you’re more likely to stumble upon a picturesque New England view than a crime scene.
Franklin, Massachusetts
Welcome to Franklin, Massachusetts—a town that might just be the poster child for safety. Seriously, with only 2.9 incidents per 1,000 locals, your probability of being a victim is a whopping 1 in 344. Not too shabby, right? And if you ever need a taste of big-city life, Boston is a hop, skip, and jump away.
Lake in the Hills, Illinois
This peaceful Illinois town is about as close as you can get to living in a security blanket with a crime rate as low as 3.1 per 1,000 people. Despite being a stone’s throw from Chicago, the town feels like a world away from the big city’s hustle and bustle. Here, your odds of being a crime victim are a slim 1 in 321.
Marshfield, Massachusetts
Spanning 31.70 square miles, Marshfield is a charming New England coastal town that flaunts five miles of picturesque beaches. Wondering if Marshfield is safe? The answer is an emphatic YES! In fact, Marshfield holds the title of the safest place among the 25 towns in Plymouth County, with an impressively low crime rate of 319 incidents per 100,000 people.
Arlington, Massachusetts
Just a stone’s throw from Boston, Arlington is a town that takes pride in its well-preserved colonial homes and the Minuteman Bikeway—a favorite for cyclists and joggers alike. The town’s low crime rate of 3.4 per 1,000 residents makes it not just a historical haven but a safe one, too.
Fulshear, Texas
This small but rapidly growing town near Houston is acknowledged for its wide-open spaces, family-friendly events, and an unbeatable sense of community. The Fulshear Farmers Market is a local favorite, offering fresh produce and handmade goods. With a crime rate of 3.6 per 1,000 people, Fulshear is growing in reputation as one of Texas’s safest places to call home.
Zionsville, Indiana
Zionsville might just be the Midwest’s best-kept secret, recognised for its historic brick Main Street lined with charming shops and restaurants. This charming town offers a haven where your odds of encountering crime is 1 in 275. But don’t let the quaint appearance fool you; Zionsville takes modern security seriously, with a crime rate of 3.6 per 1,000 locals.
Lexington, Massachusetts
Famous for being the starting point of the American Revolution, Lexington now offers its inhabitants a different kind of security. Living here is about as safe as it gets, with a 1 in 270 chance of encountering crime. The town’s picturesque streets and historic landmarks make it a desirable place to live, while the strong community vibe ensures that safety is always a priority.
Muskego, Wisconsin
Whether you’re enjoying the stunning views of Lake Denoon or exploring the town’s 20-plus parks, you can do so with peace of mind. Situated outside Milwaukee, Muskego combines the tranquillity of small-town living with a low crime rate of 3.8 per 1,000 occupants, which makes it one of Wisconsin’s safest places to call home.
Rexburg, Idaho
Known as “America’s Family Community,” Rexburg maintains a low crime rate of 3.9 per 1,000 townies, giving you a 1 in 253 probability of encountering crime. Home to Brigham Young University-Idaho and a host of community events, this town is filled with students, families, and a strong sense of belonging.
Independence, Kentucky
Independence is home to the annual Fourth of July celebration, one of the largest in the state, drawing visitors from all over. But it’s not just the fireworks that make this town a standout—it’s also one of the safest places to live; with a crime rate of 3.9 per 1,000 residents and only a 1 in 253 chance of being a victim, you can enjoy every festivity in peace.
Oswego, Illinois
It is not just another Chicago suburb, it’s a place famed for its historic downtown and beautiful Fox River views. Oswego is notable for its PrairieFest, a local festival that celebrates the community spirit with music, food, and fun. But what really sets Oswego apart from its security. It has a total crime rate of 4.1 per 1,000 locals, and a 1 in 238 odds of being a victim.
Milton, Massachusetts
Burrowed at the foot of the Blue Hills, Milton offers occupants stunning natural landscapes alongside the convenience of city proximity. Did you know that Milton is the birthplace of former U.S. President George H. W. Bush? The town’s rich history pairs well with its commitment to safekeeping, having a crime rate of only 4.2 per 1,000 people.
Needham, Massachusetts
Needham, may share a low crime rate with its neighbor Milton, but it has its own unique charm that makes it stand out. Needham is celebrated for its top-rated schools and strong community ties. As for safety? It doesn’t disappoint, with a 1 in 233 odds of becoming a victim, it’s a town where you can enjoy the arts and culture without a worry in the world.
White Lake, Michigan
The town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with the Highland Recreation Area offering over 5,900 acres of woods, wetlands, and trails. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, or just taking in the natural beauty, White Lake has it all. And with a crime rate of 4.2 per 1,000 residents, your probabilty 2w345of being a victim is pretty slim.
Avon Lake, Ohio
Offering stunning lakefront views and a host of recreational activities, from boating to beachcombing, Avon Lake is also home to one of Ohio’s top-rated school districts. With a very low total crime rate, you can focus on enjoying the lakeside life without a second thought, as the chances of being a victim in this town are almost laughable.
Madison, Madison
Directly outside Jackson, Madison is distinguished for its beautiful antebellum homes and a strong sense of camaraderie. The town regularly tops “best places to live” lists thanks to its excellent schools, low crime rate, and family-friendly atmosphere. It has a population of 27,719 and a 1 in 221 probability of encountering any crime, Madison is indeed a safe place.
Wakefield, Massachusetts
Wakefield is known for its picturesque Lake Quannapowitt, a popular spot for joggers, picnickers, and boaters. The town also flaunts a lively downtown area with shops, restaurants, and community events. But what really makes Wakefield shine is its safety record. With a crime rate of 4.5 per 1,000 townies, you can enjoy all that this charming town has to offer without a worry in sight.
Windsor, Colorado
Nestled between Fort Collins and Greeley, Windsor provides stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and a host of outdoor activities. The town is notable for its annual Windsor Harvest Festival, which has been a local tradition for over a century. Despite its growth, Windsor remains one of the safest towns in Colorado, where you can enjoy the great outdoors in complete shelter.
South Kingstown, Rhode Island
Home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the state, as well as the University of Rhode Island, South Kingstown is also noted for its commitment to preserving its rich history, with numerous historic sites and museums to explore. Yet what makes this town truly unique is its security—a crime rate of 4.7 per 1,000 locals and a 1 in 212 odds of being a victim.
Colleyville, Texas
This town of nearly 26,000 inhabitants enjoys an impressively low crime rate of 4.8 per 1,000 people. Here, your probability of becoming a crime victim is a slim 1 in 206, which means the biggest worry you might have is whether your neighbor will return the lawnmower they borrowed. Colleyville is the kind of place where you can sleep with the windows open.
West Bloomfield, Michigan
West Bloomfield might be just a stone’s throw from Detroit, but it feels like a world away when it comes to security. The tribe is tight-knit, and the only thing more abundant than safety is the stunning array of lakes that make this area a nature lover’s paradise. Whether you’re enjoying a serene paddle or a peaceful stroll, West Bloomfield lets you soak in the best of life.
Johns Creek, Georgia
In Johns Creek, outside the vibrant city of Atlanta, life flows as smoothly as the creek itself—and so does your peace of mind. Whether you’re exploring the town’s scenic parks or enjoying a night out, Johns Creek makes sure the only surprises you encounter are the good kind. Here, the real crime would be not taking advantage of everything this safe and charming town has to offer.
Billerica, Massachusetts
Billerica might be close to the action in Boston, but it’s far enough removed to offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Billerica flaunts a crime rate of 5.1 per 1,000 residents. This is the kind of place where neighbors know each other by name, and the most exciting drama is which local diner has the best clam chowder.
Mason, Ohio
Having a 1 in 192 chance of being a crime victim, Mason is a place where you can truly relax and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Whether you’re spending a day at Kings Island amusement park or exploring the town’s beautiful parks, you’ll find that the only thrill here comes from the rides, not from worrying about your safety.
Reading, Massachusetts
Reading enjoys a crime rate of 5.1 per 1,000 people and the town is all about community, where the biggest event of the week might be the local farmers market or a high school football game. In Reading, you can enjoy the perks of small-town living with the security of knowing that crime is something you only read about in the news, not in your daily life.
North Andover, Massachusetts
The town gives off a charming suburban vibe where most folks own their homes. You’ll find plenty of coffee shops and parks sprinkled around, making it a pleasant place to settle down. With a combined crime rate of 5.2 per 1,000 townies, it’s safer than 68% of communities across the country. In fact, the odds of encountering crime here are just one in 190.
Wellesley, Massachusetts
Wellesley is known for more than just its prestigious college—it’s also one of the safest places to live in Massachusetts. With a population of over 30,000, this town has a crime rate of 5.2 per 1,000 locals, giving you a 1 in 189 chance of anything going wrong. Wellesley offers a perfect blend of intellectual vibrancy and down-to-earth community living.
Mundelein, Illinois
The town may be close to Chicago, but its crime rate suggests it’s miles away from big-city worries. This hub of over 31,000 people is a haven of safety in the suburbs. Whether you’re enjoying a day at one of the local parks or just taking a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, It’s the kind of place where life moves at a gentler pace, and you can truly enjoy the little things.
Brandon, Mississippi
Life in Brandon is all about enjoying the comforts of small-town living, from friendly neighbors to peaceful streets. With a crime rate of 5.3 per 1,000 citizens and a 1 in 186 probability of encountering trouble, this town is a sanctuary of southern charm and security.
Cumberland, Rhode Island
With over 36,000 people, this town has a crime rate of 5.4 per 1,000 residents, giving you a 1 in 184 odds of running into anything untoward. Even if you’re exploring the historic Blackstone River Valley or simply enjoying the picturesque scenery, Cumberland ensures that your adventures are safe and sound.
Andover, Massachusetts.
Just outside of Boston, this town, with its rich history and quintessential New England vibe, has a crime rate of 5.4 per 1,000 people, with a 1 in 182 chance of something going wrong. Andover is a place where you can enjoy a stroll down tree-lined streets, explore historic sites, and know that you and your loved ones are in a secure environment.
Edwardsville, Ilinois
Edwardsville is a locale where safety is a top priority with a crime rate of 5.5 per 1,000 occupants. This town of over 25,000 offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life. Whether you’re enjoying the local parks, attending a community event, or just spending time with family, Edwardsville makes sure that safekeeping is always on the agenda.
Little Elm, Texas
This growing town of over 51,000 locals has a crime rate of 5.6 per 1,000 people, giving you a 1 in 176 probability of encountering trouble. Little Elm, located near Dallas, is all about lakeside living and outdoor fun, where the biggest concern is whether you’ve packed enough sunscreen for a day on the water.
Merrimack, New Hampshire
Located on the outskirts of Manchester, this region of over 27,000 people enjoy a crime rate of 5.7 per 1,000 townies, with a 1 in 172 odds of being a victim. Whether you’re hiking through the stunning landscapes or enjoying the local craft beer scene, Merrimack offers peace of mind with every adventure.
Waltham, Massachusetts
Waltham stands out as one of the safest cities in the United States, having a crime rate that’s lower than almost 43% of other cities in Massachusetts. Known for its educational institutions and innovation, Waltham it is also a standout for security. With a population of over 64,000, Waltham maintains a crime rate of 5.8 per 1,000 inhabitants.
Wylie, Texas
This Dallas suburb, with nearly 60,000 people, enjoys a crime rate of 5.9 per 1,000 residents, In Wylie, life is all about togetherness, where neighbors look out for one another, and safekeeping is a given. Whether you’re enjoying a local barbecue or taking part in one of the many community events, Wylie ensures that peace of mind is part of the package.
Commerce Township, Michigan
Commerce Township has a total number of 39,000 occupants, and it enjoys a crime rate of 5.9 per 1,000 people, giving you a 1 in 169 chance of running into trouble. Whether you’re exploring the beautiful lakes or simply enjoying the peaceful streets, Commerce Township offers a secure environment where you can truly relax.
Milton, Georgia
Milton might be near the bustling city of Atlanta, but it feels like a world away in terms of safety. This charming town of over 41,000 locals has a crime rate of 5.9 per 1,000 people, with a 1 in 167 odds of encountering anything criminal. Here, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—proximity to the city’s excitement and the peace of a safe, welcoming community.
Melrose, Massachusetts
There’s no shortage of cozy coffee shops and green parks to enjoy. When it comes to security, Melrose is a standout. Its violent crime rate is much lower than the national average of 22.7, sitting comfortably at 16.3. For property crimes like theft, burglary, and vehicle theft, Melrose also flaunts a lower rate of 16.3, compared to the national average of 35.4.
Ballwin, Missouri
If you’re wondering about safety in Ballwin, let’s put those worries to bed. Crime here is pretty much a non-issue—with a crime rate 66% lower than the national average and violent crime down by an impressive 92%. Your odds of facing any crime are just 1 in 162. Compared to other places in Missouri, Ballwin’s crime rate is better than that of about 65% of the cities and towns.
North Kingstown, Rhode Island
Nestled near Providence, North Kingstown is a coastal gem with a population of nearly 28,000; this town has a crime rate of 6.1 per 1,000 townies, giving you a 1 in 162 chance of running into any problems. Whether you’re exploring historic Wickford Village or enjoying a day at the beach, North Kingstown ensures that peace of mind is always on the itinerary.
Beverly, Massachusetts
Life in Beverly has that classic suburban vibe, where most folks own their homes. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks scattered around the area. As for safety, Beverly stands out with a crime rate of 6.2 per 1,000 people, making it safer than 67% of communities across the U.S. Your probability of encountering crime here are one in 161.
Rochester Hills, Michigan
With over 76,000 occupants, this town has a crime rate of 6.2 per 1,000 residents. Rochester Hills is all about family-friendly fun and outdoor adventures, from its expansive parks to its lively community events. Here, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—proximity to the Motor City and the peace of a safe suburban environment.
Keller, Texas
Whether you’re enjoying the parks, dining at local eateries, or simply relaxing at home, this suburb of Dallas provides a haven where you can truly feel at ease. Keller is the kind of place where neighbors greet you with a smile, and the local community events are as warm as the Texas sun.
Shrewsbury, Massachusetts
Shrewsbury, located near Worcester, is a town where safekeeping and community go hand in hand. Shrewsbury is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a strong sense of belonging. It’s a place where you can enjoy the best of New England living—charming, secure, and full of opportunities to connect with your neighbors.
Dracut, Massachusetts
With a population in the thousands and a crime rate of 6.4 per 1,000 inhabitants, your odds of becoming a victim here is quite rare. Dracut combines the charm of small-town life with the convenience of being close to a major city, making it an ideal place to live. And if you enjoy scenic trails or a friendly community vibe, you’ll love Dracut.
Prosper, Texas
This town might be growing quickly, but it hasn’t lost its commitment to safety. Located near Dallas, this town of over 34,000 locals enjoys a crime rate of 6.4 per 1,000 people, giving you a 1 in 155 chance of encountering any issues. Prosper lives up to its name by providing a thriving community where shelter and growth go hand in hand.
Newton, Massachusetts
Newton has a crime rate of 6.5 per 1,000 townies, giving you a 1 in 152 odds of running into any trouble. Famed for its beautiful homes, top-rated schools, and vibrant community, Newton is a place where you can enjoy all the perks of city living without the risks. You can explore the local parks or shop in the charming village centers, which Newton keeps safe and stylish.
Friendswood, Texas
Friendswood isn’t just a friendly name—it’s a reality for this Houston suburb known for its security and community spirit. Friendswood has a crime rate of 6.5 per 1,000 residents, meaning you have a 1 in 152 odds of becoming a victim. This town presents a blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience, where neighbors look out for one another, and safety is a shared value.