These are the safest big cities in America you’ll want to include on your bucket list!
When trying to figure out this year’s vacation, scenic views and affordability likely play significant roles in bucket lists for travelers. But beyond that, safety remains a top priority for families and solo travelers. Well, as always, Must See Places has your back!
Using the latest data from studies and safety analysis, I’ve compiled a list of this year’s 11 safest cities in the United States.
From low crime rates to excellent amenities and vibrant communities, these 10 safest big cities have become sought-after destinations for people looking for a harmonious and well-balanced getaway in today’s world. So let’s not waste any more time. Pack your bags and plan your next big adventure!
Burlington, Vermont
Situated on the gorgeous shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington is known as one of the safest big cities because of its safety, natural beauty, and progressive policies.
The city has a violent crime rate of 1.4 per 1,000 inhabitants and is repeatedly praised for its proactive community policing strategies.
This destination’s focus on sustainability is evident in its bike-friendly infrastructure and renewable energy initiatives. Popular attractions include waterfront parks and Church Street Marketplace, making it a vibrant and safe place to visit or live.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach invariably ranks as one of the safest big cities in the nation. Well-known for its vibrant community events and clean beaches, the city has a violent crime rate of 1.3 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 13.1 per 1,000 residents.
And with its robust emergency preparedness programs and well-funded public safety departments, it’s safe to say this area provides a secure environment for its 450,000 residents and millions of visitors each year.
Virginia Beach also boasts exceptional recreational facilities, including First Landing State Park and the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
Portland, Maine
Portland is one of the safest big cities on our list that combines coastal charm and has a strong focus on public safety. There’s a low violent crime rate of 1.1 per 1,000 residents here, and it’s famous for its tight-knit community.
The city also ranks pretty high for financial stability and has minimal vulnerability to natural disasters. Portland’s historic Old Port district and Casco Bay islands make it a popular destination each year for those looking for a safe, scenic environment.
The city’s strong local government and emphasis on sustainable development contribute to its thriving and secure community.
Warwick, Rhode Island
Warwick boasts some of the lowest crime rates in the Northeast, making it one of the safest big cities, with a violent crime rate of only 1.2 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 12.3 per 1,000.
The city’s focus on emergency preparedness and public safety has made it a model for other places in the US.
Situated near Narragansett Bay, Warwick offers a healthy mix of modern amenities and historical charm, including the Warwick City Park and the picturesque Goddard Memorial State Park. Its proximity to Boston and Providence also adds to its appeal.
Columbia, Maryland
Located between DC and Baltimore, Columbia offers a family-friendly and safe environment for its visitors. With its violent crime rate of 1.2 per 1,000 people, this beautiful city has a powerful reputation for crime prevention and community policing.
Columbia is a planned community designed for livability, featuring numerous neighborhood centers and 3,600 acres of open space. This is one of those safest big cities that also scores highly in financial safety and access to quality healthcare, making it a top choice for many.
Frisco, Texas
Frisco, a city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, is one of the safest big cities in the US, well-known for its safety and family-friendly environment, reporting only 23 crimes per 1000 people out of 219,587 residents.
Centrally located, Frisco is only a 25-minute drive from Dallas-Fort Worth and downtown Dallas, making it an accessible and convenient choice for families or those traveling solo and looking to explore their surrounding.
The city also has the Sci-Tech Discovery Center, offering diverse entertainment options. With warm locals, safe neighborhoods, a growing museum district, professional sports organizations, and extensive retail and dining opportunities, Frisco provides a welcoming community for families seeking a secure and vibrant place to spend their vacation, complete with easy access to outdoor activities and rich history.
Casper, Wyoming
Casper is one of the safest big cities that combines modern safety measures with a frontier spirit, earning its place near the top of the US list. With a violent crime rate of a mere 1.1 per 1,000 residents, this beautiful city’s community-centered approach to safety has proven highly useful.
It’s surrounded by spectacular natural landscapes, including the North Platte River and Casper Mountain. Its strong sense of community, mixed with a low cost of living and robust local economy, makes Casper an attractive and secure destination for anyone, including families.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Frequently called the “City of Five Seasons,” Cedar Rapids ranks as one of the safest big cities in the Midwest. With a violent crime rate of just 2.0 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 16.4 per 1,000, it has benefited from public safety initiatives and community-based policing.
This place is also a cultural hub, with attractions like the National Czech & Slovak Museum and the Czech Village. Its strong economy, driven by manufacturing and agriculture, ensures financial stability for residents. And makes for a fantastic destination for travelers!
Carmel, Indiana
Carmel, a city located in Indiana with a population of 101,964, stands out for its outstanding traffic management with more than 125 roundabouts, making it one of the safest big cities in the United States with fewer motor vehicle crashes.
Locals who love a well-established landscape featuring gorgeous greenery that contributes to a friendly atmosphere will likely live here for the rest of their lives. Carmel also has fantastic shared spaces like Central Park that offer plenty of amenities such as walking and biking paths, playgrounds, and event venues such as the Center for Performing Arts.
With a rather low crime rate of 9 crimes per 1000 people, this city provides a secure environment for families, complemented by year-round farmers’ markets, cultural attractions, and community events, making it an attractive choice for those considering a laid-back vacation. Who knows? You might even decide to move here!
Yonkers, New York
As New York’s fourth-largest city, Yonkers stands out for its low crime rates, significantly below nationwide averages. The city has a surprisingly low violent crime rate of approximately 1.7 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of about 11.5 per 1,000.
Yonkers is also considered one of the safest big cities, and it is known for its emphasis on youth and education programs, contributing to its secure environment. Attractions like Untermyer Gardens and the Hudson River waterfront make Yonkers an overall desirable place to visit.
Cary, North Carolina
If you visit Cary, you’ll find a prosperous community of 180,388 citizens at the heart of the Triangle region. This is one of the safest big cities known for its safety, with just 19 crimes reported per 1000 people. The area offers a welcoming and diverse environment, representing more than 60 nationalities.
It’s renowned for its greenways, environmental stewardship, bike-friendly parks, and premier amateur sports venues, such as the USA Baseball National Training Complex. Locals feel safe while enjoying activities like running or strolling around quaint neighborhoods.
And as you can expect, Cary provides all the amenities of a big city, with a vibrant bar and restaurant scene suitable for families and solo travelers, all while maintaining a high quality of life and safety ranking, making it an attractive choice for those considering which US city to visit next.
Have you ever visited any of these safest big cities? If so, be sure to leave a comment and share your experiences. And if you enjoyed this article, you’ll also want to check out: What Was the Most Visited City in the US Last Year?
