The Safest Places to Settle Down in The U.S. in 2026

Article Highlights & Key Takeaways

• Top-tier safety rankings often correlate with high community engagement and well-planned residential areas.

• Several Utah cities consistently rank among the safest in the nation due to low crime rates and family-oriented local cultures.

• Choosing a builder that selects premier locations (like those in Eagle Mountain or St. George) is key to long-term security.

We’ve discussed how important it is to find the right builder in the past, but where your home is built is just as important. We all know there’s no such thing as a perfect utopia, but some cities across the country come pretty close, and there’s nothing more valuable than the peace of mind that comes with letting your kids play in the front yard or taking a late-evening stroll through the neighborhood.

If you’re ready to choose a place to call home, you have an entire nation to explore, and that can be overwhelming! We created this guide to help highlight the safest cities and their respective states to settle down in, in no particular order.

Safest Cities Across The U.S. as of 2026

These areas are recognized for their low property crime rates and strong community safety initiatives based on independent reports by SafeWise and FBI crime reports data compiled by U.S. News & World Report’s real estate department.

Shawangunk, New York

A peaceful retreat known for its vast open spaces and a community where you’ll get to know your neighbors well.

Emerson, New Jersey 

This small borough consistently ranks among the safest cities, offering a tight-knit feel just a stone's throw from the city.

Campton Hills, Illinois

This village is a dream for those seeking a quiet, semi-rural lifestyle.

Chester, New York

A charming historic town that balances scenic beauty with a reputation for being one of the safest spots in the Hudson Valley.

Allendale, New Jersey

This borough boasts some of the lowest crime rates in the nation, making it a popular destination for young families.

Upper Makefield Township, Pennsylvania

A picturesque area where historic preservation and resident safety are top priorities for the local community.

Hawthorn Woods, Illinois

Known for its spacious lots and safe streets, this village is a favorite for those who value privacy and security.

Broadview Heights, Ohio

Frequently named Ohio’s safest city, Broadview Heights is celebrated for its proactive local law enforcement and community vigilance.

Millis, Massachusetts

A classic New England town where safety and excellent local schools go hand-in-hand.

Boxford, Massachusetts

Regularly ranked as one of the best places to raise a family, Boxford offers a serene, low-crime environment.

Columbus, Indiana

Apart from its famous architecture, Columbus is a safe, friendly hub that perfectly captures that Midwestern hospitality.

Atkinson, New Hampshire

A quiet, forested town that offers a high sense of security and a slow, peaceful pace of life.

Frostburg, Maryland 

This mountain town is recognized for its year-over-year decreases in crime, making it a growing favorite.

Chesterfield Township, New Jersey

A community with that historic charm that is consistently ranking among the safest places in the state.

Safe Cities to Live in Utah

Since we are based in and build homes in Utah, we wanted to share some of the best cities to live in if you’re thinking about calling the Beehive State home, or if you’re a local and need a change of scenery. Utah consistently ranks high for safety, making it a great choice for families and retirees alike.

Eagle Mountain, Utah

This and the neighboring Saratoga Springs are some of the fastest-growing areas in the state for a reason. They offer a quiet, suburban feel with plenty of room for kids to run and explore!

St. George & Washington, Utah

Southern Utah is famous for its active, outdoor lifestyle and neighborhoods where people truly look out for one another. You’ll also love the unique landscaping options in these cities.

Hurricane, Utah

Technically very close to St. George and Washington, but we wanted to separate it to share an important tidbit: It’s pronounced “hurr-uh-kin”, and it’s one of the friendliest places you’ll ever visit! 

Salem & Spanish Fork, Utah

You get the best of both worlds here: rural, small-town charm with all the modern safety features of a new, developing community.

Farr West, Utah

A peaceful Weber County gem that’s perfect if you want to escape the noise without being too far from the action!

Mapleton, Utah

Often called one of the most beautiful spots in the state, it’s a quiet mountain-side sanctum with a remarkably low crime rate.

Providence, Nibley, & Hyde Park, Utah

Cache Valley is famous for its "everyone knows everyone" type of safety. It’s one of those places where you truly feel tucked away, in a good way!

Logan & Smithfield, Utah

These cities are the heart of Northern Utah, offering a safe, grounded lifestyle with deep roots and friendly faces.

Brigham City & Tremonton, Utah

If you’re looking for a slower pace and a safe, affordable place to call home, these northern communities are hard to beat.

Let’s Start Building So You Can Start Packing

At Visionary Homes, we take pride in building in areas where you can truly feel comfortable enough to settle down. 

Our current communities are located in many of Utah’s safest cities, including Eagle Mountain, St. George, and Logan, so you have plenty of options. Call our team at (435) 228-4702  or tour the many model homes we offer on your time to find the one that speaks to you! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a city "safe" for new construction? 

Safety is often determined by low crime rates, proximity to emergency services, and the presence of active homeowners' associations (HOAs) that maintain the neighborhood's standards and security.

Are new construction communities safer than older neighborhoods? 

Often, yes. New communities are designed with modern safety standards in mind, including better street lighting, modern fire-suppression technology in homes, and planned layouts that discourage high-speed through-traffic.

How can I check the safety of a specific Utah neighborhood? 

Local police department websites often provide crime maps. You can also visit the neighborhood at different times of the day to get a feel for the activity level and talk to current residents about their experiences.

Where is Visionary Homes currently building? 

We have active communities across the state, specifically in high-safety areas like Cache County, Utah County, and the St. George area. You can explore our full list of neighborhoods on our Communities Page.