Top 5 Safest places to live in the UK with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Population: 22,540
• Crimes: 228 total number of crimes per 10000 people

Consisting of 70 individual islands, with only 20 inhabited, the Orkney Islands lie approximately 10 miles off Scotland’s north coast. With only 228 total crimes per 10,000 people, Orkney offers a safe and secure environment for all ages. While its remote location, Orkney provides access to supermarkets and recognizable chain stores, alongside a diverse array of independent local shops catering for various needs, from food and fashion to fishing gear and electronics. The islands’ high employment rates, low crime rates, excellent academic achievements, smaller class sizes, and overall good health and happiness scores contribute to its welcoming atmosphere. It comes as no surprise that Orkney has been named Scotland’s best place to live for the eighth consecutive year in the Bank of Scotland Quality of Life survey 2020. Volunteering is a way of life in Orkney, fostering cohesion and ensuring vibrant local groups, services, clubs, and societies open to all.

Scotland Statistics (2021) & Gov.Scot (2022-2023)

• Population: 96,580
• Crimes: 238 total number of crimes per 10000 people

In East Renfrewshire, community safety is very important, that is why it is no surprise that it has a low crime rate of 238 total crimes per 10,000 people. The Community Safety Unit ensures 24/7 CCTV surveillance and offers programs addressing antisocial behaviour, neighbour disputes, and dog problems, along with free and confidential victim support services. Beyond safety, locals can enjoy a range of indoor sports like racquet sports, gymnastics, dance, and martial arts regardless of the weather. For outdoor enthusiasts, Giffnock offers a family-friendly National Park with diverse activities and scenic views. Additionally, Greenbank House’s educational garden provides insight into cultivating a wide range of unusual plants.

Scotland Statistics (2021) & Gov.Scot (2022-2023)

• Population: 108,900
• Crimes: 254 total number of crimes per 10000 people

East Dunbartonshire, located north of Glasgow and bordered by the Campsie Fells and Kilpatrick Hills, stands out as one of the UK’s safest places to live, with only 254 crimes per 10,000 people. Besides safety, their ‘Local Outcomes Improvement Plan‘ outlines community efforts to address inequalities, setting goals for employment and health over the next decade. For those locals seeking activities in East Dunbartonshire, there’s plenty to explore with friends and families, including three local nature reserves: Merkland, Lenzie Moss, and Kilmardinny Loch. Mugdock Country Park offers 270 hectares of diverse woodland, moorland, and heathland, interconnected by pathways. Kilmardinny House, a listed building refurbished by the Council and EDLC Trust, now features a modern Garden Pavilion extension, ideal for various activities and events.

Scotland Statistics (2021) & Gov.Scot (2022-2023)

• Population: 22,940
• Crimes: 278 total number of crimes per 10000 people

Shetland Islands are a safe and welcoming haven, with only 278 crimes per 10,000 people, offering high-standard public services, including excellent free education in well-equipped schools and access to local NHS facilities. With exceptional roads and convenient internal ferries and buses, getting around is easy. Shopping options include supermarkets in Lerwick and Brae, along with numerous independent shops offering local goods. In Shetland, boredom is never an issue, with impressive landscapes, coastlines, and wildlife to explore, along with fresh air and clear waters. Locals enjoy the extraordinary light and tranquil surroundings. Temperatures in July and August range from 14°C to 18°C, occasionally climbing into the low to mid-20s, much like the rest of Scotland.

Scotland Statistics (2021) & Gov.Scot (2022-2023)

• Population: 262,690
• Crimes: 306 total number of crimes per 10000 people

Aberdeenshire is known for its high standard of living, low unemployment, and impressively low crime rate of 306 total crimes per 10,000 people, making it an ideal place to call home. With breathtaking countryside, from the majestic Cairngorms to the picturesque coastline, residents enjoy both tranquility and adventure. The Rosemount & Midstocket area is popular among young professionals and families. This place prioritizes safety through initiatives like the Aberdeenshire Community Safety Partnership. This partnership oversees various programs, including Adult protection and support, Aberdeenshire Violence Against Women & Girls Partnership, and Alcohol and Drugs Service, ensuring the well-being of locals. Locals in Aberdeenshire love exploring the area’s history, with over 300 castles and stately homes to visit. They also enjoy playing golf at more than 50 beautiful courses and tasting whisky at local distilleries. Along the coastline, beaches like Balmedie Beach are perfect for relaxing and taking peaceful walks.

Scotland Statistics (2021) & Gov.Scot (2022-2023)