This post was originally published on January 27, 2016 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Is your family considering a major relocation in 2020? While moving can be exciting, it can also be a stressful experience. Curb appeal and convenient locations are major draws for homebuyers, but crime and safety ratings are the most essential considerations when investing.
So, before you pack the U-Haul, evaluate the crime statistics of your new community. No matter how exciting a new city may seem—safety should be top of mind.
SmartAsset analyzed the most-populated cities across the country and ranked the top 25 safest places to live. Rankings were based on violent crime rates, vehicular mortality rate, drug poisoning and air quality index.
Take a look at the top five safest cities below based on rankings.
1. Alexandria, VA
Just outside of Washington D.C., the city of Alexandria has something for everyone. The area’s brick sidewalks and historic buildings add to the city’s charm—not to mention, Alexandria was home to George Washington in the late 1700s.
Fast Facts:
- Vehicular mortality rate: 4.34 (per 100,000 residents)
- Violent crime rate: 260 (per 100,000 residents)
- Drug poisoning mortality rate: 9 (per 100,000 residents)
2. Frisco, TX
Frisco is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The area is known for its southern charm and interesting finds, such as vintage car collections and antique shops. It’s also a market for job openings in development and construction. According to Frisco’s website, economists have identified Frisco as one of the country’s biggest spots for development.
Fast Facts:
- Drug poisoning mortality rate: 8 (per 100,000 residents)
- Violent crime rate: 163 (per 100,000 residents)
- Health rating compared to all Texas counties: 47 (out of 244)
3. McKinney, TX
Another Texas city made the top five list as one the safest cities. Located just about 30 miles north of Dallas, McKinney has much to offer buyers. McKinney prides itself on top-notch schools and green spaces. With a 2019 population of nearly 190,000, it is one of the fastest-growing cities in America.
Fast Facts:
- Drug poisoning mortality rate: 8.04 (per 100,000 residents)
- Violent crime rate: 288 (per 100,000 residents)
- Health rating compared to all Texas counties: 4 (out of 244)
4. Sunnyvale, CA
Sunnyvale, a Bay Area city, ties for fourth place. Sunnyvale has the 10th-lowest drug poisoning mortality rate in the country according to SmartAsset. Additionally, Sunnyvale receives praise for its diversity and public schools. Niche gives Sunnyvale an “A+” overall rating.
Fast Facts:
- Drug poisoning mortality rate: 7.76 (per 100,000 residents)
- Violent crime rate: 255 (per 100,000 residents)
- Health rating compared to all California counties: 3 (out of 58)
5. Olathe, KS
Olathe, Kansas ties in the ranking with Sunnyvale, California. Located just outside of Kansas City, the community ranks highly in terms of diversity and public school system.
Fast Facts:
- Vehicular mortality rate: 5.89 (per 100,000 residents)
- Violent crime rate: 305 (per 100,000 residents)
- Health rating compared to all Kansas counties: 1 (out of 102)
Your next hometown may be safe, but no city is completely immune from crime. Reach out to your local security vendor to equip your house with monitored alarms, locks and other safety devices to protect your family—regardless of your zip code.
Contact a security professional today to discuss enhancing safety in your new home.