Top 10 Safest states in America (2024)

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Home United States Moving States Top 10 Safest states in America with the Best quality of life – 2023

Last updated on: August 2, 2023

When moving to a new state, Americans are interested in choosing a safe community to live in therefore the crime rate is a good indicator of how safe a city is. Recently, the United States of America registered an average rate of 395.70 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 1958 according to the FBI. If you’re looking to move to a state that offers a high level of security and safety, MovingWaldo is here to help you! Here are the top 10 safest states in America!

Methodology

We based our ranking on the 3 following criteria: the violent-crime rate, the property crime rate, and the total crime rate (the sum of both property and violent-crime rates). Statistics come from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), The UCR Program “includes data from more than 18,000 cities, university and college, county, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies. Agencies participate voluntarily and submit their crime data either through a state UCR program or directly to the FBI’s UCR Program”.

(*UCR Program)

Featured in this article

1. Maine

Best for: lowest crime rate in America

Population: 1.372 million
Average cost of living: $2,018

The state of Maine is ranked first on our list of the safest states in America. There are 73% fewer violent crimes per 100,000 people in Maine than in America as a whole, making it one of the safest states in the country. Moreover, residents of the state witness about 36% fewer property crimes than the national average.

The population of the state is approximately 1.3 million, and its landscape is absolutely stunning, with vast forests and wild, rugged coastlines and about 6,000 lakes and ponds. Maine is also among the least expensive to live in. Everything, from housing to healthcare facilities is cheaper.

(*Maine.gov, Census.gov&Living Cost Org)

Maine

2. New Hampshire

Best for: most tax-friendly state

Population: 1.389 million
Average cost of living: $4,313

New Hampshire stands second on our list of the safest states in the US. The rate of violent crime in New Hampshire is 152.5 cases per 100,000 residents. According to this data, New Hampshire is 50% safer than the national average, making it one of the safest states to live in.

Job opportunities are plentiful in New Hampshire. Plus, the state is regarded as one of the most tax-friendly states. The residents are not subject to income taxes, sales taxes, or social security taxes. Aside from that, residents of the state are most fascinated by its natural environment. The seacoasts, mountains, and lakes in New Hampshire provide a wide range of activities such as hiking, sailing, etc.

(*Census.gov,The Laconia Daily Sun, 24/7wallst, Sofi & US News)

New Hampshire

3. Vermont

Best for: Lowest property crime rate

Population: 645,570
Average cost of living: $1,965

For new residents, Vermont is the most desirable and safest place to live. Vermont’s government pays some lucky Americans up to $100,000 for moving to the state. To qualify, you must be employed full-time by an employer outside of Vermont, willing to work remotely in your new home, and committed to becoming a permanent Vermont resident.

According to the FBI, Vermont has a violent crime rate of 118 per 100,000 residents. This means that Vermont is 70.17% safer than most of America. Furthermore, it has a 27% lower property crime rate than the national average.

Stunning mountain views, less pollution, mesmerizing lakes, and an array of outdoor activities including skiing, sailing, and hiking are just a few reasons Vermont is one of the most attractive and safest states in the US to live in.

(*Careers.vermont.gov,Vermontpublic.org,Vermont.gov, Census.gov and Living Cost Org)

Vermont

4. Connecticut

Best for: Variety of job opportunities

Population: 3.606 million
Average cost of living: $2,098

Connecticut is one of the safest states in America, as well as a very appealing and attractive place to live and work. The colonial-style small towns in Connecticut make clusters of serene, quiet places to live with minimal traffic and a soothing atmosphere. In Connecticut, violent crimes occur at a rate of 184.60 cases per 100,000 residents, which is very low compared to 395.70 crimes per 100,000 people in America. According to this statistic, Connecticut is 53% safer than the national average.

Moreover, Connecticut is also home to numerous Fortune 500 companies across a variety of industries, giving residents a wide variety of employment opportunities. Besides its rich historical tradition, the state has lively cities and renowned educational institutions.

(*Connecticut Explorer,FBI – Connecticut, Census.gov and Living Cost Org)

Connecticut

5. New Jersey

Best for: Raising a family

Population: 9.267 million
Average cost of living: $2,031

New Jersey is another safest state in the US to live in. There are an average of 195.40 violent crimes committed per 100,000 residents, which is 51.60% lower than the average rate in the US. New Jersey has a great education system, world-class healthcare system, great theaters, sports culture, and breathtaking beaches, making it one of the best places to raise a family. Amazingly, groceries are tax-free here in New Jersey.

(*Census.gov,Countryclassics.com, Living Cost Org and Njspotlightnews.org)

New Jersey

6. Pennsylvania

Best for: Entrepreneurs & startup businesses

Population: 12.96 million
Average cost of living: $2,117

The state of Pennsylvania also makes our list of the safest states in America. The combined rate of property and violent crime in Pennsylvania is 43% lower than the national average. It is the hub of both established businesses and new startups, which means there are lots of growth opportunities for job seekers in this state.

Pennsylvania is close to New York City, so a lot of people like living there. The cost of living and income taxes are also very reasonable, so you won’t have to worry about your finances. Pennsylvania offers lower real estate and rent prices than its neighbor, New York City, by 70% and 50% respectively.

(*Dividends Diversify,Livability.com, Census.gov and Living Cost Org)

Pennsylvania

7. Idaho

Best for: senior citizens

Population: 1.901 million
Average cost of living: $1,930

Another US state that makes our list of the safest states in the US is Idaho. With a population of 1.90 million, this state offers low living costs and cheaper health care, making it a convenient place to live, especially for senior citizens. There are 227.10 violent crimes committed per 100,000 people in Idaho, which is 42.60% less than the national average.

The state of Idaho is known as the Lentil Capital of the World. It is also known for having one of the largest hops farms in the United States. Idaho is also home to Shoshone Falls (also known as the Niagara of the West), one of the largest natural waterfalls in the US.

(*Thefactfile.org,Leisurecare.com, Census.gov and Living Cost Org)

Idaho

8. Rhode Island

Best for: Walkability

Population: 1.096 million
Average cost of living: $1,924

The last addition to this list of safest states in America is Rhode Island. Violent crimes are reported in Rhode Island at a rate of 275.50 cases per 100,000 residents. This means Rhode Island is 30.37% safer than the national average, making it one of the safest states in the nation.

With a population of approximately 1.09 million and a total area of 1,214 square miles, Rhode Island is the smallest state in the country in terms of size. It has a total area of 1,045 square miles. Therefore, traveling around the state is quick and convenient. In addition, the average walk score across all nine Rhode Island cities ranks at 57!

(*Dividend Diversify,Walkscore.com,Ri.gov, Rhode Island, Census.gov and Living Cost Org)

Rhode Island

9. New York

Home of the first state park

Population: 95,230
Average monthly cost of living: $1,546

Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, offering a small-town feel, Fayetteville is one of the best cities to live in the US. Fayetteville is a vibrant, progressive city with vast entertainment options and is home to the University of Arkansas. Over the years, this city has transformed from a small town to a center of higher education, culture, commerce, and entrepreneurialism. On the other hand, Fayetteville is majorly enticing to outdoor lovers.

This is because of its abundance of state parks, acres of community green space, playgrounds, parks, and walking trails. Additionally, this vibrant city boasts a first-class performing arts center, an active local food movement for residents to satisfy their taste buds, live music venues, and a dynamic festival scene.

(*Niche, Census.gov& Living Cost Org)

New York

10. Massachusetts

Best for: Young professionals & professional growth

Population: 6.985 million
Average cost of living: $2,233

Massachusetts has a crime rate of 389.92 cases per 100,000 residents, which is 1.46% lower than the national average, making it one of the safest states in America. Residents of Massachusetts enjoy dazzling autumn colors and exceptional summers. Furthermore, they do not have to travel far to take a vacation. This is because many of the most popular vacation destinations are located in Massachusetts.

There has been strong growth in the state’s economy, primarily due to the presence of its booming industries such as high-tech industry, agriculture, trade, and fishing, which all contribute to the state’s economic well-being. That means there will be ample opportunities for personal and professional growth. Plus, its rich American history and top-notch educational institutions also make it an appealing place to live.

(*Dividends Diversify,Moving.com, 24/7 Wall St, Census.gov and Living Cost Org)

Massachusetts

Conclusion

Moving to a new stateinvolves a mix of factors that must be taken into account. A list of the ten safest states in America has been compiled based on relevant criteria which make for safe living. Consider one of these states mentioned above if you’re looking for a safe environment with great opportunities, child-friendly atmosphere and beautiful landscapes.

Are you moving soon?Find out the Cheapest Places to Live in the U.S. for the Best Quality of Life!

Last year's ranking (2022)

1. Maine
2. New Hampshire
3. Idaho
4. Massachusetts
5. New Jersey
6. Connecticut
7. Vermont
8. Pennsylvania
9. New York
10. Rhode Island

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Mathieu Paquette

The author of this article also acts as MovingWaldo’s booking agent. Matt, is an accomplished relocation specialist with over 6 years of experience in the industry. Matt has earned a CAM certification (Canadian Association Of Movers), Tariff Certification (Atlas Van Lines), and has an extensive business background. Before handing off everything you own, do your due diligence… or let Matt do it for you.

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You've landed on a gold mine if you're keen on safety, relocation, and statistics. My experience in the field includes not just knowing the data but also understanding the intricacies of moving and the factors that contribute to a safe and secure living environment.

Let's dive into the meat of this article. The author, Mathieu Paquette, is an accomplished relocation specialist, and he's curated a list of the top 10 safest states in America for 2023. The rankings are based on three crucial criteria: violent-crime rate, property crime rate, and the total crime rate, with data sourced from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program.

Now, let's dissect the information about the top 10 safest states:

Maine:
- Best for: Lowest crime rate in America.
- Population: 1.372 million.
- Average cost of living: $2,018.
- Notable features: Stunning landscapes, 73% fewer violent crimes, and 36% fewer property crimes than the national average.
New Hampshire:
- Best for: Most tax-friendly state.
- Population: 1.389 million.
- Average cost of living: $4,313.
- Highlights: 50% safer than the national average, abundant job opportunities, and tax-friendly policies.
Vermont:
- Best for: Lowest property crime rate.
- Population: 645,570.
- Average cost of living: $1,965.
- Unique perks: Government incentives for new residents, 70.17% safer than the national average, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Connecticut:
- Best for: Variety of job opportunities.
- Population: 3.606 million.
- Average cost of living: $2,098.
- Standouts: 53% safer than the national average, colonial-style small towns, and a hub for Fortune 500 companies.
New Jersey:
- Best for: Raising a family.
- Population: 9.267 million.
- Average cost of living: $2,031.
- Attractions: 51.60% lower violent crime rate, excellent education and healthcare systems, and tax-free groceries.
Pennsylvania:
- Best for: Entrepreneurs & startup businesses.
- Population: 12.96 million.
- Average cost of living: $2,117.
- Noteworthy: 43% lower combined crime rate, proximity to New York City, and reasonable living costs.
Idaho:
- Best for: Senior citizens.
- Population: 1.901 million.
- Average cost of living: $1,930.
- Highlights: 42.60% lower violent crime rate, low living costs, and unique features like being the Lentil Capital of the World.
Rhode Island:
- Best for: Walkability.
- Population: 1.096 million.
- Average cost of living: $1,924.
- Standouts: 30.37% safer than the national average, small size for quick travel, and a decent walk score.
New York:
- Home of the first state park.
- Population: 95,230.
- Average monthly cost of living: $1,546.
- Notable features: Fayetteville's transformation, outdoor attractions, and a vibrant cultural scene.
Massachusetts:
- Best for: Young professionals & professional growth.
- Population: 6.985 million.
- Average cost of living: $2,233.
- Standouts: 1.46% lower crime rate than the national average, economic growth, and rich history.

This comprehensive ranking not only considers safety but also factors in cost of living, job opportunities, lifestyle perks, and unique incentives offered by each state. If you're planning a move, these details should be more than just informative—they should be invaluable.