Violent crimes in the United States rose markedly from 2015 to 2017, and while statistics have primarily been driven by increases in some of the country’s most impoverished urban centers, more Americans are worried about falling victim to this new wave of attacks.
In a Gallup poll conducted in 2017, more than half of the participants said they worried “a great deal” about violence and crime in the country, reported the Washington Post. But with police departments already spread thin, it may feel like there’s nothing you can do to ensure the safety of your family.
Fortunately, there are several cities that have ramped up their public safety and security programs and lowered their crime rates to near non-existent levels, bucking the national trend. The cities listed below aren’t just safe sanctuaries; they are places with thriving job markets, top public schools and pristine amenities.
Stop worrying about your safety and start planning your move:
1. Alexandria, VA
Virginia has many claims to fame, from being the backdrop to thousands of battles during the Civil War to now being home to one of the world’s busiest airports. But it’s the state’s reputation as having some of the lowest crime rates in the country that has turned it into a top destination for families.
Alexandria, despite being situated just 20 minutes from crime-ridden Washington. D.C., is a perfect example of this state-wide trend. Based on FBI Crime Report statistics, Alexandria is one of the safest cities in Virginia, with residents in the area far less likely to fall victim to either violent or property-related crimes than anywhere else in the state.
Alexandria beat out 54 others, with experts citing the city’s extensive public safety initiatives as a major reason behind curbing crime. Thinking of making the move? We recommend hunting for homes in Alexandria’s safest neighborhoods which are found along Seminary Road and North Quaker Lane or in Maple Grove Estates and Mount Hebron Park.
2. Erie, CO
With 340 days of sunshine every year and some of the lowest crime rates in the country, Erie has more than a few reasons for you to see the brighter side of life. The city, which began as a small coal mining town in the 1870s, ranks as one of the safest in the state.
There are just 0.89 violent crimes per 1,000 people, which means Erie is safer than 81% of the country’s metro areas, reports Neighborhoodscout.com. It’s a sense of security that will allow you to take advantage of the area’s top public schools, amenities and affordable housing. Niche.com, a site that ranks neighborhoods based on a variety of factors including crime rates, health care and jobs, awarded Erie an “A+” grade overall.
Statewide operations targeting gang activities in Colorado’s city centers have contributed to Erie’s success in cracking down on crime. However, community policing efforts – such as neighborhood watch groups – have also helped curb criminal activity in residential areas.
3. Round Rock, TX
Straddling the Balcones Escarpment, Round Rock is sandwiched between the fertile soils of the Blackland Prairie and the hilly terrain of the Texas Hill Country. While most have moved to the city for its abundant outdoor activities, Niche.com named the city one of the top five safest in the country in 2017.
Patch.com reported that crime is on a downward trajectory, with numbers set to fall year on year. Experts credit this success to a vigilant and well-funded police force, who have managed to curb crime despite the city’s record high annual population growth.