Top 7 Safest cities in the US with the Best quality of life – 2024

Studies
United States

In the United States, people often choose where to settle down and build their lives based on factors like safety, cost of living, and overall quality of life. Certain cities in the country have stood out in rankings, providing residents with not only a sense of safety but also a high standard of living. From low crime rates to vibrant communities and excellent amenities, these cities have become sought-after destinations for those looking for a well-balanced and harmonious living environment in today’s ever-changing world. 

To help you compare, MovingWaldo listed the top 7 safest cities in the US with the best quality of life in 2024. 

Safest states to live in America with the Best quality of life

Methodology

Our ranking methodology is based on a careful analysis of crime rates derived from each city’s government website with their most recent data from 2019 to 2023. The data are composed of violent crimes, property crimes, theft, arson, drugs, and assaults. To ensure accuracy, we calculated the average number of various crimes per 1000 people.

The “best quality of life” aspect is measured based on feedback from real people who have moved to this area in our database or real people from trusted online forums. More specifically, we look for positive feedback on job opportunities, quality of education, quality of healthcare, feeling of safety, public transportation, the environment (cleanliness), as well as the availability of recreational facilities and parks.

Ad

Widgets Magazine

Safest cities in the US

Featured in this article

Ad

1. Carmel, Indiana

  • Total number of offenses: 958
  • Population: 101,964
  • Crimes: 9 crimes per 1000 people

Carmel, a suburban city in Indiana with a population of 101,964, stands out for its unique traffic management with over 125 roundabouts, making it one of the safest cities in the United States with fewer motor vehicle collisions. Locals who love a well-established landscape featuring mature and beautiful greenery that contributes to a pleasant atmosphere will likely stay here for good. Carmel has shared spaces like Central Park that offer amenities such as biking and walking paths, playgrounds, and event venues like the Center for Performing Arts. With a low crime rate of 9 crimes per 1000 people, Carmel provides a secure environment for families, complemented by cultural attractions, year-round farmers’ markets, and community events, making it an attractive choice for those considering moving.

US Census (2022) & Carmel IN Crime Watch (2023)

Carmel, Indiana

2. Virginia Beach, Virginia

  • Total number of offenses: 8,273
  • Population: 455,618
  • Crimes: 18 crimes per 1000 people

Virginia Beach, located where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, boasts a 3-mile oceanfront boardwalk, serving as the city’s vibrant center. With a population of 455,618, the city stands out for its safety, reporting only 18 crimes per 1000 people according to FBI statistics, making it one of the safest cities in the US with the best quality of life. This achievement is possible because of the proactive efforts of first responders and the community in law enforcement and crime prevention. Responders from Emergency Communication and Citizens Services, Emergency Medical Services, Police, and Fire are available 24/7. Families of all ages, especially those who enjoy beach activities and the natural beauty of scenic coastlines, will find Virginia Beach an ideal place to reside, ensuring both safety and a fulfilling lifestyle.

US Census (2022) & VA Crime Statistics (2022)

Virginia Beach, Virginia

3. Cary, North Carolina

  • Total number of offenses: 3,349
  • Population: 180,388
  • Crimes: 19 crimes per 1000 people

Cary, North Carolina, a thriving community of 180,388 residents at the heart of the Triangle region, is known for its safety, with only 19 crimes reported per 1000 people. The city offers a diverse and welcoming environment, representing over 60 nationalities, and is known for its bike-friendly parks, greenways, environmental stewardship, and premier amateur sports venues, including the USA Baseball National Training Complex. Locals express a sense of security while enjoying activities like running or walking in quaint neighborhoods. Cary provides the amenities of a large city, with a vibrant restaurant and bar scene suitable for families and young professionals, all while maintaining a high safety ranking and quality of life, making it an attractive choice for those considering moving.

US Census (2022) & FBI — NC (2019)

Cary, North Carolina

4. McKinney, Texas

  • Total number of offenses: 4,568
  • Population: 207,507
  • Crimes: 22 crimes per 1000 people

McKinney, the third-largest city in Collin County with a population of 207,507, stands out for its safety, with a low crime rate of 22 crimes per 1000 people, earning it recognition as one of the safest cities in the country, together with Frisco. The city promotes safety awareness and prioritizes transparency through its open government, fostering accountability, and providing information to the public. Whether you have a family or are single, McKinney is an excellent option for those seeking a secure place to live. The city offers numerous parks, a historic downtown with museums, shops, and restaurants, golf courses, hiking trails, and lakes for fishing and swimming, providing residents with a variety of amenities to enjoy.

US Census (2022) & FBI — TX (2019)

McKinney, Texas

5. Frisco, Texas

  • Total number of offenses: 5,109
  • Population: 219,587
  • Crimes: 23 crimes per 1000 people

Frisco, Texas, a city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, is known for its family-friendly environment and safety, reporting only 23 crimes per 1000 people from 219,587 residents. Centrally located, Frisco is a mere 25-minute drive from both downtown Dallas and Dallas-Fort Worth, making it a convenient and accessible choice for families or individuals considering a move or for those employed who want a comfortable way to commute. The city has the Sci-Tech Discovery Center, offering a diverse entertainment option for locals. With safe neighborhoods, warm locals, professional sports organizations, a growing museum district, and extensive retail and dining spaces, Frisco provides a welcoming community for families seeking a secure and vibrant place to call home, complete with rich history and easy access to outdoor activities.

US Census (2022) & FBI — TX (2019)

Frisco, Texas

6. Sugar Land, Texas

  • Total number of offenses: 2,828
  • Population: 109,414
  • Crimes: 26 crimes per 1000 people

Situated about 20 miles southwest of downtown Houston, Sugar Land offers a unique blend of small-town hospitality and big-city amenities, making it an ideal place for families. It is also home to the headquarters of the Imperial Sugar Company. With a population of 109,414 and a low crime rate of 34 crimes per 1000 people, Sugar Land ensures the safety and well-being of its residents. The city provides access to the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land and the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, featuring interactive exhibits for families to enjoy. With picturesque parks, trails, and recreational areas, Sugar Land enhances the quality of life for its residents, making it a welcoming community that combines economic opportunities with family-friendly features and cultural diversity.

US Census (2022) & Sugarland TX PD (2022)

Sugar Land, Texas

7. Pearland, Texas

  • Total number of offenses: 4,369
  • Population: 126,949
  • Crimes: 34 crimes per 1000 people

Pearland, a city in Texas within Brazoria, Fort Bend, and Harris’s counties, established in 1894, is known for its figs and pears, reflecting its agricultural roots. As one of Houston’s suburbs, Pearland offers a rural, small-town ambiance just 25 minutes south of Downtown Houston. With easy access to major highways, Pearland is an ideal destination for families seeking a balanced lifestyle and comfortable ways to commute. When it comes to safety, Pearland has a low crime rate of 34 crimes per 1000 people. Residents praise the neighborhood’s friendliness and abundant amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, and bars. Pearland ensures a family-friendly environment to its 126,949 residents with various activities such as skating and indoor adventure parks, making it a highly desirable place to live.

US Census (2022) & FBI — TX (2019)

Pearland, Texas

Featured in this article

Conclusion

The safest cities in the USA, like Carmel, Virginia Beach, Cary, McKinney, Frisco, Sugar Land, and Pearland, don’t just offer safety; they’re great places to live. With low crime rates, family-friendly amenities, and lots to do, these cities make sure families and everyone else feel secure and happy. Whether you’re looking for cultural diversity or fun activities, these cities go beyond just being safe; they’re awesome places to call home.

Are you planning on moving to the US, soon? Check out the best long-distance moving companies in the US!

 

Last year’s ranking (2023)

  1. Carmel, Indiana
  2. Frisco, Texas
  3. Pearland, Texas
  4. Sugar Land, Texas
  5. Cary, North Carolina
  6. Virginia Beach, Virginia
  7. McKinney, Texas
  8. Sandy Springs, Georgia
  9. Meridian, Idaho
  10. Sterling Heights, Michigan

 

Our rankings are meticulously curated, considering recent data crime rates derived from each city’s government website and quality of life. It’s important to highlight that certain places may have changed from last year’s lists due to fluctuations in criteria used in our methodology. We encourage readers to weigh these rankings in light of their individual needs and preferences for a more informed decision-making process.

Ad

Widgets Magazine

Share this article on social media

Ann Nacario

The author

Meet Ann – our head writer with a knack for making moving and city living a breeze. From the many details of moving to picking the perfect moving company, she’s your guide. Ann has a friendly yet detailed approach to ensure your move goes off without a hitch. When she’s not writing about relocation, it will always be on her mind, but you’ll catch her spending time with her three furry friends.
How much is your move?

Find a mover

Easily compare multiple quotes

Organize your move

Guided through a checklist

Internet packages

Get up to speed on the new deals

Address change

Update your address in a few clicks

Join the network

Become a trusted vendor in your service area

For agents and brokers

MovingWaldo is a one-stop-shop that simplifies tackling moving tasks

What is MovingWaldo?

We guide millions of families through each step of their moving process, helping them save time and money, and making sure nothing gets left behind.

Trouver un déménageur

Comparez plusieurs devis

Organisez votre déménagement

Guidé à travers une checklist

Changement d’adresse

Mettez à jour votre adresse en quelques clics

Forfaits internet

Soyez au courant des nouvelles offres internet à domicile

Rejoignez le réseau

Devenez un fournisseur de confiance pour desservir votre région

Professionnels de l’immobilier

Prolongez la relation avec vos clients grâce à votre propre plateforme de déménagement personnalisé

Qu'est-ce que MovingWaldo ?

MovingWaldo est un guichet unique qui simplifie la planification du déménagement

Get our printable change of address checklist directly in your inbox