Wondering about the safest states in America? It is a priority question for many people when they choose to live in or travel to a state. The United States is diverse, and the safety situation in various states is different depending on violent crime rate, property crime rate, frequency of natural disasters, traffic accident rate, and other factors by state. Some states, like Vermont and Massachusetts, have low crime rates and quiet living environments, and they have become the safest states in the US for people to choose from. In this blog, we will show you the top 10 safest states in the US and help you decide before you go.
Key Insights
New Jersey is the safest state in America, with a low crime rate in many aspects. With the highest safety score of 80, the lowest assault offense rate, and a total crime rate of 13.92, which is relatively low compared to other states.
Maine has the lowest violent crime rate, and Massachusetts has the lowest property crime rate. New Hampshire has the lowest total crime rate.
New Mexico is the least safe state in America, with a violent crime rate, property rate, and driving safety scores. This state often happens with gun violence, burglaries, and various assaults.
10 Safest States in the US Ranking
| State | Safety Scores | Total Crime Rate |
|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 80 | 13.92/1000 residents |
| Vermont | 78 | 18.93/1000 residents |
| Maine | 77 | 13.17/1000 residents |
| Massachusetts | 74 | 13.92/1000 residents |
| Rhode Island | 74 | 14.58/1000 residents |
| Idaho | 74 | 11.68/1000 residents |
| Connecticut | 73 | 16.44/1000 residents |
| Maryland | 73 | 20.34/1000 residents |
| Utah | 72 | 21.37/1000 residents |
| New Hamsphire | 70 | 11.37/1000 residents |
Related Article: Safest and Most Dangerous College Towns in America
Top 10 Safest States in America
New Jersey
Total Crime Rate: 16.2/1000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 2.03/1000 people
Property Crime Rate: 14.17/1000 people
New Jersey is the safest state in the US. Ranked #4 in violent crime safety with a rate of 2.03 and ranked #2 in the public safety rank. It also has the lowest assault offense rate of 430. The cities, including Jersey City, Hoboken, New Brunswick, and more, are well-known for their safety. In addition, New Jersey, as the safest state in America, has a high emergency management level, including an emergency warning system, disaster response center, and emergency material reserve.
Vermont
Total Crime Rate: 18.93/1000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 2.22/1000 people
Property Crime Rate: 16.71/1000 people
Vermont is considered one of the safest states in the United States, with a low crime rate of 18.93/1000 people. In particular, there are fewer felonies in the safest cities in the US. Vermont ranked #2 for personal safety and #3 for road safety. With a low violent crime rate of 2.22/1000 people and one of the lowest unemployment rates at 2.2% in the United States, the property crime rate is reduced. Firearm management is rigorous and one of the USA’s firearm-friendly areas. Ensuring the legality of gun use reduces the violence caused by gun abuse.
Maine
Total Crime Rate: 13.17/1000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 1.03/1000 people
Property Crime Rate: 12.13/1000 people
Maine is one of the safest states in America and makes people feel stable and comfortable. Maine has the lowest violent crime rate in America at 1.03 per 1000 people, and the property crime rate is 12.13 per 1000 people. Also, Maine ranked first for emergency preparedness, third for personal safety, and fifth for road safety. Due to the low population and warm community atmosphere, most of Maine’s cities have fewer crime events. The social and economic levels are high, and the unemployment rate is low, which reduces the crime rate for property.
Massachusetts
Total Crime Rate: 13.92/1000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 3.22/1000 people
Property Crime Rate: 10.7/1000 people
Massachusetts has a low crime rate of 13.92/1000 residents. The violent crime rate is 3.22/1000 residents, and the property crime rate is 10.7/1000 residents. Ranked first for road safety, second for financial protection, and fifth for personal safety. Law enforcement resources are abundant in this safest state in the USA, and police have a quick response to crime events. There are some famous universities, such as Boston University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in Massachusetts, and many students would like to choose to study there. Moreover, Massachusetts has some of the nation’s leading healthcare resources, so the health of its residents is effectively protected, and the likelihood of crime resulting from illness is reduced.
Rhode Island
Total Crime Rate: 14.58/1000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 1.72/1000 people
Property Crime Rate: 12.85/1000 people
Rhode Island is one of the safest states in America, and the safety has manifested in various aspects, with the low violent rate at 1.72/1000 people and property rate at 12.85 /1000 people. Rhode Island has the lowest gun violence, low robbery rate at 25.4, and homicide offense rate of 3.7 per 100,000 residents. Moreover, Rhode Island’s focus on social welfare and the distribution of educational resources, including Brown University and the University of Rhode Island (URI), has resulted in a relatively small gap among its residents between the rich and the poor, thereby reducing the number of crimes caused by economic inequality.
Idaho
Total Crime Rate: 11.68/1000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 2.41/1000 people
Property Crime Rate: 9.27/1000 people
Wondering most safe state in the USA? Idaho gives you the answer. With the second-lowest robberies in the United States, the low violent crime rate at 2.41 per 1000 residents ranked #3, with the lowest property crime rate at 9.27 per 1000 residents. In addition, Idaho ranked #6 for road safety in the safest state in America ranking. The roads are relatively empty, with a low traffic accident rate, and drivers generally follow traffic rules.
Connecticut
Total Crime Rate: 16.44/1000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 1.5/1000 people
Property Crime Rate: 14.94/1000 people
Connecticut stands out as one of the safest states in the US, with a relatively low crime rate of 16.44/ 1000 people. The violent crime rate is at 1.5 per 1000 residents, and it benefits from the state’s strict gun control laws and community policing being effectively implemented. Connecticut is ranked first for personal safety and with a very low gun violence rate and rape rate. Moreover, Connecticut has the lowest aggravated assault rate at 0.83 per 1000 residents. For public safety in Connecticut, the first aid and firefighting systems respond quickly and efficiently.
Maryland
Total Crime Rate: 20.34/1000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 3.98/1000 people
Property Crime Rate: 16.35/1000 people
Maryland is considered one of the safest states in America, especially in suburban areas and small cities, with a low crime rate of 3.98 per 1000 residents and a property rate of 16.35 per 1000 residents. Also, This safest state in America has the low kidnapping and abduction rate at 2.1. Maryland also ranks ninth in personal safety and thirteenth in workplace safety. With strict security measures, such as surveillance systems, community patrols, and neighborhood watches. This safest state in America has a well-developed emergency response mechanism, with fire, medical, and police departments working closely to ensure a quick and effective response during natural disasters or other emergencies.
Utah
Total Crime Rate: 21.37/1000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 2.42/1000 people
Property Crime Rate: 18.95/1000 people
Utah, one of the safest states in the US, has a low violent crime rate of 2.42/1000 people. It ranks ninth for road safety and fifth for emergency preparedness. The policies in this state are efficient and have solid execution, and the residents in each community pay attention to safety and mutual assistance. Utah provides a high quality of life, a low incidence of poverty, and a low unemployment rate. The property crime rate is 18.95 per 1000 residents and is low compared to other states.
New Hamsphire
Total Crime Rate: 11.37/1000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 1.26/1000 people
Property Crime Rate: 10.11/1000 people
Want to live in the safest states in America? New Hampshire has a low violent crime rate of 1.26 per 1000 residents and a low property crime rate of 10.11 per 1000 people. New Hampshire has relatively few cases of murder, rape, and other violent crimes, thanks to the state’s tight-knit communities and strong social safety network. New Hampshire ranked first for financial safety and second for emergency preparedness. The state also has one of the lowest unemployment rates, leading to a harmonious community.
Methodology for Safest States in America
To measure the safest states in America, there are some elements to consider:
Violent Crime Safety
Violent Crime Safety refers to a state with a low violent crime rate, including murder, robbery, sexual assault, and aggravated assault.
Property Crime Safety
Property crime safety refers to the crime risk related to the property, including burglary, auto theft, and larceny. Property crime will not affect personal life but will damage personal property.
Driving Safety
Driving safety in a state measures traffic accident rates, fatality rates, and safety levels for pedestrians and cyclists.
Public Safety
Public safety reflects a state’s ability to respond to natural disasters, fires, terrorist attacks, and other emergencies.
Climate Safety
Climate safety is also a critical factor in determining the safest state in America. It refers to a state with low risk in climatic conditions such as extreme weather and the frequency and intensity of natural disasters.
Conclusion
The safest states in America have low crime rates, strong law enforcement, and good public safety facilities. New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont, and other safest states in the US have low violent and property crime rates, making people choose to live in them. The communities in these safest states in the US have good connections and high trust, with highly efficient public services and reactions to emergencies. Choosing the safest state in the US can help you have a better living experience in the United States.
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FAQ about Safest States in the USA
New Jersey is often regarded as the safest state in America. Based on factors such as low violent crime rates, comprehensive law enforcement efforts, and well-established community programs. The state benefits from a robust healthcare system, low unemployment rates, and a high level of education, contributing to overall safety. Additionally, New Jersey has a diverse population, and its proximity to major urban centers like New York City enhances its safety infrastructure.
New Jersey has often been ranked as the safest state in the U.S. in recent years. The state has low crime rates, particularly violent crimes, and a strong sense of community and trust in law enforcement. New Jersey benefits from a small population, allowing more personalized attention from police and emergency services. It also has low traffic fatalities, robust public health systems, and a high quality of life.
Texas is generally considered a safe state to live in and is ranked #33 in the United States. Major cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston offer diverse communities and robust infrastructure but may have higher crime rates in certain areas. Rural areas and smaller towns often experience lower crime rates, providing a quieter and safer environment. Crime rates, healthcare, education, and natural disaster risks should all be considered when evaluating safety in Texas.
California is often considered one of the best states to live in due to its diverse climates, economic opportunities, and cultural vibrancy. It boasts thriving tech, entertainment, and agriculture industries, particularly in cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. California offers beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches, mountains, and national parks.
New Mexico is often ranked as the state with the highest crime rate in the U.S. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, New Mexico consistently has one of the highest rates of violent crime, including aggravated assault, robbery, and homicide. Factors such as poverty, unemployment, and substance abuse issues are contributing elements.
The safest places to live in USA are often smaller cities or suburban areas with low crime rates and strong community involvement. Cities like Naperville, Illinois, and Cary, North Carolina, are frequently ranked for safety due to their low violent crime rates, excellent schools, and active local governments. Additionally, areas like Irvine, California, and Bellevue, Washington, are known for their robust public safety measures and family-friendly environments.
