When choosing where to live, work, or visit in the United States, safety remains a top priority for families and individuals alike. We’ve analyzed violent crime data from cities with populations exceeding 300,000 to identify the safest major metropolitan areas in the United States.
Our ranking focuses on violent crime rates per 100,000 residents, including murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. These statistics provide insight into which large cities successfully maintain public safety while offering urban amenities.
1. Irvine, California
This master-planned Orange County community was designed by the Irvine Company in the 1960s, making it one of the few American cities planned from the beginning with an intentional focus on green spaces and balanced development.
More than one-third of the entire City of Irvine is permanently preserved as parks, natural open space, and trails, creating a green oasis in Southern California.
2. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach holds the Guinness World Record for having the longest pleasure beach in the world, stretching an impressive 35 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. History buffs will appreciate that Cape Henry Lighthouse, built in 1792, was the first federally funded lighthouse in the United States.
3. Honolulu, Hawaii
Hawaii’s capital city combines island paradise with urban infrastructure while maintaining impressive safety standards for a major metropolitan area. The strong sense of community and aloha spirit contribute to neighborhood cohesion.
4. Lexington, Kentucky
Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington has an unexpected claim to fame: In October 2009, Lexington became the first city to launch a reenactment of Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” music video, with thousands of zombies dancing down Main Street, an event that’s now an annual Halloween tradition.
5. Henderson, Nevada
Just outside Las Vegas, Henderson has carved its own identity as one of Nevada’s safest cities. This rapidly growing city offers suburban tranquility while providing access to entertainment capital amenities.
Despite rapid expansion in recent decades, Henderson maintains its commitment to safety through proactive community development and strategic urban planning that prioritizes residential quality of life over casino culture.
6. El Paso, Texas
El Paso’s strong community ties and vibrant blend of American and Mexican cultures create a unique metropolitan identity where family values and neighborhood cohesion support public safety initiatives.
7. Omaha, Nebraska
Warren Buffett, legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, is proudly from Omaha. The city is home to multiple Fortune 500 companies, and food lovers should know that the Reuben sandwich was invented by chef Bernard Schimmel for his customer, Reuben Kulakofsky, at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha.
8. San Diego, California
California’s second-largest city achieves remarkable safety for a major metropolitan area. San Diego’s year-round perfect weather, beaches, and cultural attractions come with the bonus of relative safety compared to other cities its size.
The city is also famous for its avocado production—California grows 90% of the nation’s avocados, with much of that coming from San Diego County.
9. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh’s economic transformation from industrial powerhouse to tech and medical hub included significant investment in community safety, neighborhood renewal, and creating walkable urban spaces that encourage community interaction.
10. Las Vegas, Nevada
Surprising to some, Las Vegas maintains relatively low violent crime rates despite its reputation as an entertainment destination. Residents enjoy safe neighborhoods away from the Strip’s tourist areas.
Las Vegas successfully separates its world-famous entertainment districts from family-friendly residential communities, allowing permanent residents to enjoy suburban safety while tourists flock to the casinos.
11. Columbus, Ohio
Ohio’s capital and largest city offers Midwestern affordability with big-city amenities and reasonable safety metrics.
Columbus boasts a thriving arts district, numerous museums, and a nationally recognized food scene that rivals coastal cities.
12. Tampa, Florida
This Gulf Coast city combines Florida sunshine with manageable crime rates. Tampa’s revitalized downtown and waterfront areas demonstrate successful urban development with safety considerations.
13. Fort Worth, Texas
Often overshadowed by Dallas, Fort Worth maintains its distinct Western heritage while achieving better safety metrics than many comparable Texas cities. The city balances growth with community-focused policing.
14. Austin, Texas
Texas’s capital city maintains relative safety despite explosive growth in the technology sector. Austin’s young, educated population and thriving economy support community investment in safety.
With more music venues per capita than anywhere else in America, Austin creates vibrant public spaces that are both entertaining and well-monitored.
15. Miami, Florida
Rounding out our list, Miami demonstrates that major international cities can maintain reasonable safety standards. While facing urban challenges, Miami’s diverse neighborhoods include many safe areas for residents.
Beyond Statistics
While crime statistics provide valuable data for comparing cities, they don’t tell the complete story. Each of these fifteen cities has developed unique characteristics, cultural traditions, and community identities that make them special places to live and visit.
Play our city guessing game to test your knowledge about cities across the United States and around the world.
Note: Crime statistics fluctuate year to year. This ranking reflects recent violent crime data for cities with populations exceeding 300,000. Always research current conditions and specific neighborhoods when making relocation or travel decisions.