25 Safest Cities in Oklahoma 2016

Located in the South Central region of the country, Oklahoma is home to 3.9 million residents. The state is a major producer of agricultural products, natural gas, and oil as well as such things as telecommunications and aviation. The primary cities in the state are Oklahoma City and Tulsa, with nearly two-thirds of residents living in these areas. The state’s landscape ranges from forests to plains, and small mountain ranges to mesas. If living in the Sooner State sounds appealing, here are 25 safest cities in Oklahoma to help you make a sound choice.
Related: Check out our Oklahoma Public Records guide.
Our list was compiled based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 232 for violent crime and 2,879 for property crime. This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

#1 Edmond

Located in Oklahoma County, the city of Edmond is home to 81,400 residents.  Considered a suburb of Oklahoma City, the community is the site of the University of Central Oklahoma as well as the home office of Homeland supermarkets, and was included on CNBC’s list of “10 Perfect Suburbs.”  Edmond is the safest place to live in Oklahoma, with a violent crime rate of 101.8, and the chance of being affected by property crime here just 2%.

#2 Choctaw

Another city in Oklahoma County, Choctaw is home to 15,200 residents.  Located just 10 miles from Oklahoma City, the community is the oldest chartered town in the state and is known for its popular eight-day Oktoberfest sponsored by the city each year.  Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate in Choctaw is 122.4, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.8%.

#3 Moore

Located in Cleveland County, the city of Moore is home to 55,000 residents.  The community sits between Oklahoma City and Norman and is the site of a large Veterans Memorial, which was destroyed by a 2013 tornado but then rebuilt.  The violent crime rate in Moore is 135.9, and residents have a 4.2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#4 Yukon

A city in Canadian County, Yukon is home to 22,700 residents.  Considered a suburb of Oklahoma City, the community was named after the Yukon Territory in Canada and was historically a mill town.  The violent crime rate here is 139.6, and residents of Yukon have a 2.4% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#5 Norman

Located in Cleveland County, the city of Norman has a current population of 118,000 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is just 20 miles south of Oklahoma City, is home to the University of Oklahoma, and was included on CNN Money’s list of best small cities in the U.S.  The violent crime rate in Norman is 151.8, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is just 2.6%.

#6 Guthrie

A city in Logan County, Guthrie is home to 10,100 residents.  Also the county seat, the community has many historic properties, is a popular rodeo event location, and is known for its annual Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival.  The violent crime rate here is 153.7, and residents of Guthrie have a 3% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#7 Broken Arrow

Located primarily in Tulsa County, the city of Broken Arrow is home to 98,800 residents.  Considered the largest suburb of Tulsa, the community was originally agriculture-based but now hosts some large companies such as FlightSafety International and Blue Bell Creameries.  The violent crime rate in Broken Arrow is 153.9, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 2.1%.

#8 Mustang

A city in southeastern Canadian County, Mustang is home to 17,300 residents.  Considered a suburb of Oklahoma City, the community encompasses 12 square miles and is served by the Mustang Public School District.  The violent crime rate here is 160.1, and residents of Mustang have a 2.4% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#9 Jenks

Located in Tulsa County, the city of Jenks is home to 16,900 residents.  This fast-growing community is considered a suburb of Tulsa, is situated along the Arkansas River, and is the site of the Oklahoma Aquarium.  The violent crime rate in Jenks is 179.9, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is just 1.6%.

#10 Sand Springs

A city in Osage and Tulsa counties, Sand Springs is home to 18,900 residents.  Another Tulsa suburb, this community was an early leader in glass manufacturing and is served by the Sand Springs School District.  The violent crime rate here is 181.7, and residents of Sand Springs have a 4% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#11 Elk City

Located in Beckham County, Elk City is home to 11,600 residents.  The community is over 100 miles west of Oklahoma City and serves as a center of commerce for the western part of the state.  Energy production is dominant here, and the city has a large regional medical center.  The violent crime rate in Elk City is 185.5, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 2.7%.

#12 Owasso

A city in Rogers and Tulsa counties, Owasso is home to 28,900 residents.  Considered a northern suburb of Tulsa, the community’s area is known as “Green Country” for its hills, lakes, and green vegetation. Major employers in the city include Whirlpool, Nordham Group, and American Airlines.  The violent crime rate here is 186.4, and residents of Owasso have a 2.5% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#13 Sapulpa

Located in Creek and Tulsa counties, the city of Sapulpa is home to 20,500 residents.  Also the county seat of Creek County, the community has a history in the production of walnuts, bricks, and glass, earning the nickname “The Crystal City of the Southwest.”  The violent crime rate in Sapulpa is 235.4, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is just 2.3%.

#14 Guymon

A city in Texas County, Guymon is home to 11,400 residents.  Also the county seat, the community’s economy is diverse and dominated by such things as energy production, cattle feedlots, and corporate pork farms.  The city is also known for its Guymon Pioneer Days Rodeo each May.  The violent crime rate here is 243.8, and residents of Guymon have a 2.6% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#15 Stillwater

Located in Payne County, the city of Stillwater has a current population of 46,500 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is home to Oklahoma State University, several high-tech businesses, and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum.  The violent crime rate in Stillwater is 261.2, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3.1%.

#16 Claremore

A city in Rogers County, Claremore is home to 18,500 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is considered a suburb of Tulsa, is the site of Rogers State University, and is noted as the home of entertainer Will Rogers.  The violent crime rate here is 265.1, and residents of Claremore have a 2.6% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#17 El Reno

Located in Canadian County, the city of El Reno is home to 16,700 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is 25 miles west of Oklahoma City and is best known for its fried onion burger, upon which an entire festival is centered each May.  The violent crime rate in El Reno is 270.5, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 2.9%.

#18 Bartlesville

A city primarily in Washington County, Bartlesville has a current population of 36,200 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is 18 miles from the Kansas state line and is noted as the longtime home of the Phillips Petroleum Company.  The violent crime rate here is 272.6, and residents of Bartlesville have a 2.9% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#19 Tahlequah

Located in Cherokee County, the city of Tahlequah is home to 15,700 residents.  Also the county seat, the community lies at the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, is the capital of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, and is the site of the main campus of Northeastern State University.  The violent crime rate in Tahlequah is 291.6, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 4.2%.

#20 McAlester

A city in Pittsburgh County, McAlester is home to 17,700 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is the largest city in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and is the site of the Oklahoma State Penitentiary.  The violent crime rate here is 309.5, and residents of McAlester have a 5.1% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#21 Altus

Located in Jackson County, the city of Altus is home to 19,800 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is home to Altus Air Force Base, as well as two colleges: Southwest Technology Center and Western Oklahoma State College.  The violent crime rate in Altus is 316, and the chance of being affected by a property crime here is 3.4%.

#22 Enid

A city in Garfield County, Enid is home to 49,300 residents.  The community has the third largest grain storage capacity in the world, and its economy is based on both energy and agriculture.  Enid is home to the Tri-State Music Festival and major companies in the area include Atwood Distributing and Johnston Enterprises.  The violent crime rate here is 329.6, and residents of Enid have a 3.9% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#23 Bethany

Located in Oklahoma County, the city of Bethany is home to 19,000 residents.  Considered a suburb of Oklahoma City, the community was founded by the Church of the Nazarene and is the site of Southern Nazarene University and Southwestern Christian University.  The violent crime rate in Bethany is 363.6, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3.6%.

#24 Weatherford

A city in Custer County, Weatherford is home to 10,800 residents.  The community was incorporated in 1898, is the site of Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a Kodak manufacturing plant, and is known for its popular Stafford Air & Space Museum.  The violent crime rate here is 399.8, and residents of Weatherford have a 2.3% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#25 Okmulgee

Located in Okmulgee County, the city of Okmulgee is home to 12,300 residents.  The community is the capital of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and has a diverse economy based on retail, healthcare, and construction.  The violent crime rate in Okmulgee is 420.7, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3.7%.

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25 Safest Cities in Virginia 2016

Officially the Commonwealth of Virginia, Virginia is a state that is both varied in geography and has a strong story to tell.  Nicknamed the “Old Dominion” due to its status as the first colonial possession in mainland British America, the state has the oldest continuous law-making body in the New World.  The 12th most populous state in the U.S., it is home to 8.3 million residents who enjoy its lands from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay.  If you’d like to make Virginia your home, we’re giving you the 25 safest cities in the state to choose from.

Our list was compiled based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data.  Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 196 for violent crime and 1,930 for property crime.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.
Related: Check out our Virginia Public Records guide.

#1 Salem

A city in Roanoke County, Salem is has a current population of 24,800 residents.  Also the county seat, the city is home to Roanoke College and has a minor league baseball team called the Salem Red Sox.  This is the safest place to live in the state of Virginia, with a violent crime rate of 31.7, and the chance of being affected by property crime here just 2.2%.

#2 Vienna

Located in Fairfax County, Vienna is a town that is home to 15,600 residents.  Known for its well-performing schools, vibrant downtown, and proximity to the D.C. area, the town was included on CNNMoney’s list of best places to live in the U.S.  It is also a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 37.2 and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.1%.

#3 Poquoson

An independent city outside of York County, Poquoson is home to 12,100 residents.  Named for the Native American word which translates to “great marsh”, the city continues to have large areas of undeveloped and protected wetlands.  It is also a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 82.4 and the chance of being affected by property crime here just .02%.

#4 Fairfax

Located in Fairfax County, the city of Fairfax has a current population of 24,400 residents.  Also the county seat, the city is just 16 miles southwest of Washington D.C. and is home to both George Mason University and Virginia International University.  The violent crime rate in Fairfax is 83.3, and residents have a 1.9% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#5 Falls Church

An independent city within Fairfax County, Falls Church is home to 12,300 residents.  The city encompasses just 2 square miles, is a part of the D.C. metro area, and is known for its good schools and affluent neighborhoods.  Another safe place to live, the violent crime rate in Falls Church is 90.6 and the chance of being affected by property crime here is just 1.1%.

#6 Blacksburg

Located in Montgomery County, Blacksburg is a town that has a current population of 42,600 residents.  Best known as the home of Virginia Tech, the town was named by Business Week as one of the best places in the U.S. to raise kids and by Southern Living as the Best College Town in the South.  The violent crime rate here is 90.6, and residents of Blacksburg have a 1.1% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#7 Herndon

A town in Fairfax and Loudoun counties, Herndon is home to 23,200 residents.  A part of the Washington D.C. metro area, Herndon lies within the Dulles Technology Corridor, which features such companies as AOL and Network Solutions. Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate here is 116.8, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Herndon is 1.5%.

#8 Front Royal

Located in Warren County, Front Royal is home to 14,400 residents.  Also the county seat, the community has over a dozen buildings and districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a safe place to live.  The violent crime rate in Front Royal is 129.1, and residents have a 3.3% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#9 Manassas Park

An independent city in Prince William County, Manassas Park is home to 14,200 residents.  Located approximately 30 miles southwest of Washington D.C., the community is primarily residential and is known for its rich history and well-performing schools.  The violent crime rate here is 135.5, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Manassas Park is 1.5%.

#10 Williamsburg

Located on the Virginia Peninsula near James City and York counties, Williamsburg has a current population of 14,600 residents.  Due to its history, the city has a tourism-based economy and is a college town because of its proximity to The College of William and Mary.  The violent crime rate in Williamsburg is 137, and residents here have a 1.7% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#11 Christiansburg

A town in Montgomery County, Christiansburg is home to 21,000 residents.  Also the county seat, the community was a stagecoach stop in the 1850’s and was the residence of such legends as Davy Crockett, Daniel Boone, and Booker T. Washington.  The violent crime rate here is 141.1, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Christiansburg is 3.1%.

#12 Leesburg

A historic town in Loudon County, Leesburg has a current population of 42,600 residents.  Just 33 miles northwest of Washington D.C., the town has grown into a thriving bedroom community that is also home to The FAA’s Washington Air Route Traffic Control Center.  The violent crime rate in Leesburg is 160.4, and residents have a 2.1% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#13 Alexandria

Located in Northern Virginia on the western bank of the Potomac River, Alexandria is an independent city that is home to 139,900 residents.  Just 7 miles south of Washington D.C., the city is home to many who commute into the nation’s capital as well as some large government employers, such as the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the Institute for Defense Analyses.  The violent crime rate here is 166.6, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Alexandria is 2%.

#14 Virginia Beach

An independent city on the Atlantic Coast, Virginia Beach is home to 437,900 residents.  The most populous city in the state, it is considered a resort community due to its miles of beaches, resorts, and annual related events.  It is also known as having the longest pleasure beach in the world and the longest bridge-tunnel complex in the world.  Virginia Beach is a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 169.4 and the chance of being involved in a property crime here at 2.6%.

#15 Staunton

Located in Augusta County, Staunton is an independent city that is home to 23,700 residents.  Also the county seat, the city sits in the Shenandoah Valley and is the site of the Western State Hospital and Mary Baldwin College, a private women’s liberal arts college.  The violent crime rate in Staunton is 174.8, and residents have a 2.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#16 Harrisonburg

An independent city in the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg has a current population of 48,900 residents.  Also the county seat of Rockingham County, the city is home to Eastern Mennonite University and James Madison University as well as a vibrant arts and historic district.  The violent crime rate in Harrisonburg is 217.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.1%.

#17 Winchester

Located in Frederick County, Winchester is an independent city that is home to 26,200 residents.  Also the county seat, the community sits in the Shenandoah Valley and is the site of Shenandoah University and the popular annual Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival in the spring.  The violent crime rate here is 219.5, and residents of Winchester have a 4.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#18 Colonial Heights

An independent city in Dinwiddie County, Colonial Heights is home to 17,400 residents.  Located just north of the Appomattox River, the community encompasses 7.8 square miles and has several locations listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  The violent crime rate in Colonia Heights is 226.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 5.5%.

#19 Hampton

Located on the southeastern end of the Virginia Peninsula, Hampton is an independent city with a current population of 137,400 residents.  Considered a part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, the city is home to the Virginia Air and Space Center, Langley Air Force Base, and NASA Langley Research Center, as well as seemingly endless miles of beaches and resorts.  The violent crime rate in Hampton is 227.7, and residents have a 3.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#20 Culpeper

An unincorporated town in Culpeper County, Culpeper is home to 16,300 residents.  Also the county seat, the town is known for its fascinating history, quaint small town atmosphere, and as consistently being named as one of the best small towns in the country.  The violent crime rate here is 267.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime in Culpeper is 3.4%.

#21 Martinsville

Located in Henry County, Martinsville is an independent city that has a current population of 13,800 residents.  Also the county seat, the city is home to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, and the Martinsville Speedway, NASCAR’s shortest track as well as one of its oldest.  The violent crime rate in Martinsville is 284.5, and residents have a 3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#22 Danville

An independent city between Virginia and Caswell counties, Danville is home to 43,000 residents.  Nicknamed the “River City”, the community sits on the Dan River near the state’s southern border.  The region has worked to restructure its economy, both bringing in new businesses as well as revitalizing its downtown district.  The violent crime rate here is 311.6, and residents of Danville have a 4.4% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#23 Suffolk

Located in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, Suffolk is an independent city that is home to 86,600 residents.  The largest city in the state by area, it encompasses 429 square miles and includes part of the Great Dismal Swamp.  The economy here is based around defense contractors and peanut processing. The violent crime rate in Suffolk is 315.6, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is just 2.6%.

#24 Waynesboro

An independent city in Augusta County, Waynesboro is home to 21,000 residents.  Located in the Shenandoah Valley, the city features portions of Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway.  The city is a popular tourist destination and is also the site of the P. Buckley Moss Museum.  The violent crime rate here is 324.9, and residents of Waynesboro have a 3.4% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#25 Bristol

Located in Washington County on the southern Virginia state line, Bristol is an independent city that is home to 17,800 residents.  Considered a twin city to Bristol, Tennessee, which sits on the opposite end of its main street, the city is known as the “Birthplace of Country Music.”  The violent crime rate in Bristol is 334.3, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3.6%.

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25 Safest Cities in Oregon 2016

Located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, Oregon’s western border is the Pacific coastline and both the Columbia River and Washington State are to the North.  Home to just over 4 million residents, the state is the 27th most populous, with Salem being its capital and Portland its largest city. Oregon has a diverse landscape, from the Pacific coastline to the volcano-lined Cascade Range.  The state is known for its lush forests and also its growing industry, with headquarters of such companies as Nike, Lithia Motors, and Columbia Sportswear located here.  If you’d to make the Beaver State your next home, here are the 25 safest cities in Oregon to help you make the right choice.
Related: Check out our Oregon Public Records guide.
Our list was compiled based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 232 for violent crime and 2,879 for property crime. This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

#1 West Linn

Located in Clackamas County, the city of West Linn is home to 25,100 residents.  Considered a southern suburb of Portland, the community sits between the Willamette and Tualatin rivers as was included on CNN Money’s list of best places to live.  West Linn is the safest place to live in Oregon, with a violent crime rate of 19.6 and the chance of being involved in a property crime here less than 1%.

#2 Sherwood

A city in Washington County, Sherwood is home to 18,900 residents.  Part of the Tualatin Valley southwest of Portland, the community encompasses 4.3 square miles and sits adjacent to the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge.  Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate here is 58.8, and residents of Sherwood have a 1.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#3 Albany

Located in Linn County, the city of Albany has a current population of 51,500 residents.  Also the county seat, this community in the Willamette Valley lies at the confluence of the Willamette and Calapooia rivers and is home to over 30 parks.  Another safe choice, the violent crime rate in Albany is 86.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 3%.

#4 Newberg

A city in Yamhill County, Newberg is home to 22,100 residents.  Considered a suburb of Portland, the community was incorporated in 1889 and is the site of George Fox University, a private liberal arts Christian university with 3,900 students.  The violent crime rate here is 89.8, and residents of Newberg have a 1.6% chance of being affected by property crime.

#5 St. Helens

Located in Columbia County, the city of St. Helens is home to 12,800 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is 39 miles from Mount St. Helens, sits on the banks of the Columbia River, and was a major filming location for the movie “Twilight.”  The violent crime rate in St. Helens is 92.3, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 2.9%.

#6 Lake Oswego

A city primarily in Clackamas County, Lake Oswego is home to 36,600 residents.  Located just south of Portland, this affluent community was founded in 1847, sits adjacent to the 405-acre Lake Oswego, and maintains over 500 acres of parks.  The violent crime rate here is 93.8, and residents of Lake Oswego have a 1.7% chance of being affected by property crime.

#7 Canby

Also located in Clackamas County, the city of Canby is home to 15,800 residents.  Situated in an area known as Baker Prairie, the community lies between the Molalla and Willamette rivers and is the site of the county fairgrounds as well as the largest dahlia grower in the country.  The violent crime rate in Canby is 105.5, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.7%.

#8 Tualatin

A city primarily in Washington County, Tualatin is home to 26,000 residents.  Considered a suburb of Portland, the community lies to the south of the Tualatin River and is the site of several factories as well as an upscale shopping area called Bridgeport Village.  The violent crime rate here is 108.4, and residents of Tualatin have a 3.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#9 Milwaukie

Located in Clackamas County, the city of Milwaukie is home to 20,200 residents.  Considered a suburb of Portland, the community lies adjacent to the Willamette River and is known as the home of Darkhorse Comics as well as being the birthplace of the Bing cherry.  The violent crime rate in Milwaukie is 121, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.5%.

#10 Corvallis

A city in Benton County, Corvallis has a current population of 54,400 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is 30 miles south of Salem and is home to Oregon State University as well as a large regional medical center.  The violent crime here is 121.7, and residents of Corvallis have a 2.5% chance of being affected by property crime.

#11 Tigard

Located in Washington County, the city of Tigard is home to 48,000 residents.  The community is divided into 13 distinct neighborhoods, is the site of one of the state’s largest malls, and is the headquarters for several companies such as Consumer Cellular and Gerber Legendary Blades.  The violent crime rate in Tigard is 135.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 3.4%.

#12 Hermiston

A city in Umatilla County, Hermiston is home to 16,700 residents.  Considered the largest city in Eastern Oregon, the community lies 7 miles south of the Columbia River and Lake Wallula and is known for its watermelon production.  The violent crime rate here is 140.7, and residents of Hermiston have a 3.2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#13 Oregon City

Located in Clackamas County, Oregon City is home to 31,800 residents.  Also the county seat, the community was the first U.S. city west of the Rocky Mountains to be incorporated.  The area has a long history in the forestry industry but is now home to several high-tech and manufacturing companies. The violent crime rate in Oregon City is 141.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 2.7%.

#14 Central Point

A city in Jackson County, Central Point is home to 17,100 residents.  Located just north of Medford, the community was incorporated in 1889 and is the headquarters of such businesses as the Talk Radio Network and Erickson Air Crane.  The violent crime rate here is 149.2, and residents of Central Point have a 3.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#15 Beaverton

Located in Washington County, the city of Beaverton has a current population of 89,800 residents.  Just 7 miles west of downtown Portland, the community was included on Money’s list of best places to live and is home to numerous corporate headquarters such as Nike, Reser’s Fine Foods, and Leupold & Stevens.  The violent crime rate in Beaverton is 152.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.5%.

#16 La Grande

A city in Union County, La Grande is home to 13,000 residents.  Also the county seat, the community lies to the east of the Blue Mountains, encompasses 4.6 square miles, and is the site of Eastern Oregon University, part of the state university system. The violent crime rate here is 166.7, and residents of La Grande have a 3.8% chance of being affected by property crime.

#17 The Dalles

Located in Wasco County, The Dalles is a city that is home to 13,600 residents.  Also the county seat, the community lies on the banks of the Columbia River, is the site of the popular annual Northwest Cherry Festival and is home to a Google data center.  The violent crime rate in The Dalles is 167.5, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 4.9%.

#18 Ashland

A city in Jackson County, Ashland is home to 20,700 residents.   Located just north of the California border, the community is a popular tourist destination as is home to Southern Oregon University as well as the famous annual Oregon Shakespeare Festival.  The violent crime rate here is 171.8, and residents of Ashland have a 3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#19 Springfield

Located in Lane County, the city of Springfield is home to 59,400 residents.  A part of the Willamette Valley, the community encompasses 15.7 square miles, and its major employers include its two large hospitals, the Springfield School District, and Symantec.  The violent crime rate in Springfield is 173, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 5%.

#20 Keizer

A city in Marion County, Keizer is home to 36,400 residents.  Considered a suburb of Salem, the community has a minor league baseball team and is known for its iris-growing industry, also sponsoring a popular annual Iris Festival each May.  The violent crime rate here is 174.9, and residents of Keizer have a 2.2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#21 Troutdale

Located in Multnomah County, the city of Troutdale is home to 15,900 residents.  Just 12 miles east of Portland, the community sits at the confluence of the Columbia and Sandy rivers and is known as the gateway to the Columbia River Gorge and the Mount Hood Scenic Byway.  The violent crime rate in Troutdale is 183.4, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 3.4%.

#22 Hillsboro

A city in Washington County, Hillsboro has a current population of 91,600 residents.  Considered a western suburb of Portland, the community is a part of what is known as the Silicon Forest, which an area that hosts many high-tech companies such as Intel, Yahoo!, and Salesforce.  The violent crime rate here is 191.2, and residents of Hillsboro have a 2.2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#23 McMinnville

Located in Yamhill County, the city of McMinnville is home to 32,100 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is 35 miles southwest of Portland, lies at the confluence of the Willamette and Yamhill Rivers, and is home to Linfield College and the popular Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum.  The violent crime rate in McMinnville is 195.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.8%.

#24 Dallas

A city in Polk County, Dallas is home to 14,500 residents. Also the county seat, the community is just 15 miles west of Salem, encompasses 4.8 square miles, and lies adjacent to Rickreall Creek.  The violent crime rate here is 195.9, and residents of Dallas have a 2.5% chance of being affected by property crime.

#25 Grants Pass

Located in Josephine County, the city of Grants Pass is home to 34,500 residents.  Also the county seat, the community sits northwest of Medford, is known for its rafting on the Rogue River as well as for its proximity to the Oregon Caves National Monument.  The violent crime rate in Grants Pass is 214.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 5%.

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15 Safest Cities in Kentucky 2016

Located in the east south-central region of the United States, Kentucky is home to 4.4 million people. Designated as a commonwealth, the state is the 26th most populous and 37th largest U.S. state. The state’s major cities are Louisville and Lexington, and it is known as having the world’s longest cave system, the longest navigable waterways in the contiguous United States, and two large man-made lakes. The state has the nation’s most productive coalfield but is also noted for its historic sites, bourbon distilleries, and horse racing. If you’d like to live in the Bluegrass State, here are the 15 safest cities in Kentucky

Related: Check out our Kentucky Public Records guide..

Our list was compiled based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 212 for violent crime and 2,247 for property crime. This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

#1 Fort Thomas

Located in Campbell County, the city of Fort Thomas is home to 16,300 residents.  The community sits on the southern bank of the Ohio River and is considered a suburb of Cincinnati. The city is known for its quality schools and is the safest place to live in the state of Kentucky.  The violent crime rate in Fort Thomas is 42.6, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is just 1.4%.

#2 Lawrenceburg

A city in Anderson County, Lawrenceburg is home to 10,500 residents.  Also the county seat, the community encompasses 5.8 square miles and is the site of both the Four Roses and Wild Turkey bourbon distilleries.  Another safe choice, the violent crime rate here is 66.2, and residents of Lawrenceburg have a 1.1% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#3 Independence

Located in Kenton County, the city of Independence is home to 24,700 residents.  Considered a suburb of Cincinnati, the community is also one of two county seats, and the city lies on the southern bank of the Ohio River.  The violent crime rate in Independence is 72.2, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 1.1%.

#4 Murray

A city in Calloway County, Murray is home to 17,700 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is just 7 miles north of the Tennessee border and is home to Murray State University, a four-year public university with 10,000 students.  Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate here is 112 and residents of Murray have a 3.3% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#5 Madisonville

Located in Hopkins County, the city of Madisonville is home to 19,300 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is a part of the Western Coal Fields region, and it is now a manufacturing hub in the area, with major employers such as GE Aviation, Carhartt, and Ahlstrom.  The violent crime rate in Madisonville is 121.7, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3.3%.

#6 Elizabethtown

A city in Hardin County, Elizabethtown is home to 29,300 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is considered a suburb of Louisville, encompasses 25.8 square miles, and is served by two different school districts.  The violent crime rate here is 149.7, and residents of Elizabethtown have a 3.5% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#7 Jeffersontown

Located in Jefferson County, the city of Jeffersontown is home to 26,500 residents.  Considered a major suburb of Louisville, the community was founded in 1797, encompasses just 10 square miles, and is the home of the headquarters of Papa John’s Pizza.  The violent crime rate in Jeffersontown is 168, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 2.2%.

#8 Glasgow

A city in Barren County, Glasgow is home to 14,000 residents.  Also the county seat, the community was named by The Progressive Farmer as the top rural place to live as is known for its popular annual Scottish Highland Games.  The violent crime rate here is 169.9, and residents of Glasgow have a 2% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#9 Berea

Located in Madison County, the city of Berea has a current population of 13,500 residents.   This fast-growing community lies on the border of the Cumberland Plateau, is home to Berea College, and has become a tourist attraction with its many art festivals and historic properties.  The violent crime rate in Berea is 175.8, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 4.3%.

#10 Erlanger

A city in Kenton County, Erlanger is home to 18,300 residents.  Considered a suburb of Cincinnati, the community encompasses 8.3 square miles and is the site of a major Toyota manufacturing plant as well as the headquarters of The United States Playing Card Company.  The violent crime rate here is 181.5, and residents of Erlanger have a 2.6% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#11 St. Matthews

Located in Jefferson County, the city of St. Matthews is home to 15,800 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is a suburb of Louisville and serves as one of the state’s major shopping destinations, with a large mall and several shopping centers.  The violent crime rate in St. Matthews is 181.9, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3.8%.

#12 Shelbyville

A city in Shelby County, Shelbyville is home to 14,000 residents.  Also the county seat, the community was established in 1792 and is known as the Saddlebred Capital of the World, with a popular annual horse show that draws visitors from around the world.  The violent crime rate here is 205.1, and residents of Shelbyville have a 2.2% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#13 Henderson

Located in Henderson County, the city of Henderson is home to 28,700 residents.  Considered a suburb of Evansville, the community lies on the bank of the Ohio River and is the site of the Ellis Park Race Course as well as several popular annual music festivals.  The violent crime rate in Henderson is 210.7, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3.1%.

#14 Florence

A city in Boone County, Florence is home to 29,900 residents.  Considered a suburb of Cincinnati, the community encompasses 10.3 square miles, is served by the Boone County School District, and is home to a minor league baseball team and stadium.  The violent crime rate here is 225.5, and residents of Florence have a 5.4% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#15 Bardstown

Located in Nelson County, the city of Bardstown is home to 11,700 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is the 2nd oldest city in the state, has many historic properties, and is home to several operating distilleries including Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark.  The violent crime rate in Bardstown is 229.2, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3%.

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10 Safest Cities in Louisiana 2016

Located in the Southern region of the United States, Louisiana is home to 4.6 million residents.  Ranked the 25th most populous of the U.S. states, its largest city is New Orleans, and the capital of the state is Baton Rouge.  Instead of counties, the political subdivisions of the state are called “parishes.”  Fifteen percent of Louisiana’s land mass is water, whether it be lakes, rivers, deltas, coastal marsh, or swamp, giving way to a diverse selection of animal life and vegetation.  If you’d like to make the Bayou State your home, here are the ten safest cities in Louisiana.

Related: Check out our Louisiana Public Records guide.
Our list was compiled based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 515 for violent crime and 3,459 for property crime. This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

#1 Baker

Located in East Baton Rouge Parish, the city of Baker is home to 13,800 residents.  Just five miles from the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport, the community sits adjacent to the Baton Rouge Zoo and is known for its popular annual Baker Buffalo Festival in September.  Baker is the safest place to live in Louisiana, with a violent crime rate of 185.4 and the chance of being affected by property crime here just 3.2%.

#2 Kenner

A city in Jefferson Parish, Kenner is home to 66,700 residents.  Considered a suburb of New Orleans, this community that sits along the Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain was founded in 1855 and is the site of both the New Orleans airport and its main convention center.  Another safe choice, the violent crime rate in Kenner is 239.2, and residents have a 3.8% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#3 Mandeville

Located in St. Tammany Parish, the city of Mandeville is home to 11,500 residents.  The community sits on the North Shore of Lake Pontchartrain, across the lake from New Orleans, and the city was awarded Google’s eCity award in 2013.  Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate here is 265.7, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Mandeville is 3.2%.

#4 Jennings

A city in Jefferson Parish, Jennings is home 11,400 residents.  Also the parish seat, the community sits halfway between Lake Charles and Lafayette and is known as the “Cradle of Louisiana Oil” due to its history in oil production.  The violent crime rate in Jennings is 391.3, and residents of the city have a 2.9% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#5 Gonzales

Located in Ascension Parish, the city of Gonzales is home to 9,700 residents.  Settled in the mid-1800’s, the community encompasses 8.5 square miles and is known as the “Jambalaya Capital of the World,” with a popular annual Jambalaya Festival.  The violent crime rate here is 435.7, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Gonzales is 7.2%.

#6 Morgan City

A city in St. Mary Parish, Morgan City is home to 12,400 residents.  The community sits on the banks of the Atchafalaya River, was once named the “jumbo shrimp capital of the world”, and has a nineteen-block historic district.  The violent crime rate in Morgan City is 447.4, and residents here have a 3.3% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#7 Slidell

Located in St. Tammany Parish, the city of Slidell has a current population of 27,000 residents.  The community lies on the northeast shore of Lake Pontchartrain and is home to the regional National Weather Service office as well as the headquarters of Vesco Tennis Courts and Textron Marine & Land Systems.  The violent crime rate here is 450.3, and residents of Slidell have a 5.5% chance of being affected by property crime.

#8 Thibodaux

A city in Lafourche Parish, Thibodaux is home 14,500 residents.  Also the parish seat, the community was incorporated in 1830, encompasses 5.5 square miles of land, and is the site of Nicholls State University, a public 287-acre university.  The violent crime rate in Thibodaux is 476.2, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 4%.

#9 Zachary

Located in East Baton Rouge Parish, the city of Zachary is home to 11,200 residents.  Just 16 miles north of the city of Baton Rouge, the community was incorporated in 1889, encompasses 23.9 square miles, and is served by the Zachary Community School Board.  The violent crime rate here is 582.9, and residents of Zachary have a 1.8% chance of being affected by property crime.

#10 Bossier City

A city in Bossier Parish, Bossier City is home to 66,300 residents.  Considered a sister-city to Shreveport, the community sits on the eastern bank of the Red River, is home to four riverboat casino resorts as well as Barksdale Air Force Base and Louisiana Tech University.  The violent crime rate in Bossier City is 596.4, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 3.8%.

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25 Safest Cities in Alabama 2016

Alabama is located in the Southern United States and is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the south. Home to 4.8 million residents, the state is 24th most populous in the country, and its largest city by population is Birmingham. Alabama offers residents a diverse landscape, with hundreds of indigenous animal species and unique flora and fauna. Once a largely agricultural region, the state has evolved to embrace such things as aerospace, manufacturing, and finance. If you’re looking to make the Heart of Dixie your next home, here are the 25 safest cities in Alabama.

Related: Check out our Alabama Public Records guide.
Our list was compiled based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 427 for violent crime and 3,178 for property crime. This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

#1 Mountain Brook

Located in southeastern Jefferson County, the city of Mountain Brook is home to 20,400 residents.  Considered an affluent suburb of Birmingham, the community was incorporated in 1942 and consists of three distinct villages.  Mountain Brook is the safest place to live in Alabama, with a violent crime rate of 39 and the chance of being affected by property crime here just 1.4%.

#2 Vestavia Hills

A city in Jefferson and Shelby counties, Vestavia Hills is home to 24,400 residents.  Also considered a Birmingham suburb, the community encompasses 19.4 square miles, has a vast system of parks, and is known for its high-quality public schools.  Another safe choice, the violent crime rate in Vestavia Hills is 64.3, and residents have a 1.4% chance of being involved in a property crime here.

#3 Helena

Also located in Shelby and Jefferson counties, the city of Helena is home to 16,700 residents.  Also a suburb of Birmingham, the community sits at the southern end of the Appalachian Mountains foothills, and was included in Money’s list of best places to live in the U.S.  The violent crime rate here is 64.4, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Helena is just 1%.

#4 Hoover

Another city in Jefferson and Shelby counties, Hoover is home to 84,100 residents.  Considered Birmingham’s largest suburb, the community features a minor league baseball team as well as the Riverchase Galleria, one of the largest shopping centers in the Southeast.  The violent crime rate in Hoover is 104.5, and residents of the city have a 2.6% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#5 Eufaula

Located in Barbour County, the city of Eufaula is home to 13,100 residents.  The community sits along the banks of both the Chattahoochee River and Lake Eufaula, which is known as the “Big Bass Capital of the World”, and there are also many historic properties here.  The violent crime rate here is 130.7, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Eufaula is 2.6%.

#6 Athens

A city in Limestone County, Athens is home to 21,800 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is one of the oldest in the state and is the site of both Athens State University and the Browns Ferry Nuclear Power Plant.  The violent crime rate in Athens is 136.7, and residents of the city have a 3.7% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#7 Hartselle

Located in Morgan County, the city of Hartselle is home to 14,200 residents.  Just 10 miles south of Decatur, the community was established in 1870 and encompasses 14.9 square miles of land.  The violent crime rate here is 146, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Hartselle is 2.7%.

#8 Moody

A city in St. Clair County, Moody is home to 11,700 residents.  Incorporated in 1962, the community is just 15 miles east of Birmingham, encompasses 24 square miles and is served by the St. Clair County School District.  The violent crime rate in Moody is 151, and residents of the city have a 1.5% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#9 Fort Payne

Located in DeKalb County, the city of Fort Payne is home to 14,000 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is near several attractions such as Lookout Mountain, DeSoto State Park, and Little River Canyon National Preserve.  It is also the headquarters for the music group Alabama.  The violent crime rate here is 154.7, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Fort Payne is 3.3%.

#10 Alabaster

A city in Shelby County, Alabaster is home to 31.300 residents.  Considered a southern suburb of Birmingham, the community sits within the Opossum and Cahaba valleys and is served by its own school district.  The violent crime rate in Alabaster is 158.5, and residents of the city have a 2.2% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#11 Pelham

Located in Shelby County, the city of Pelham is home to 21,300 residents.  The community encompasses 38.3 square miles and features Oak Mountain State Park, the state’s largest state park.  The violent crime rate here is 165.5, and residents of Pelham have a 2.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#12 Pleasant Grove

A city in western Jefferson County, Pleasant Grove is home to 10,300 residents.  Considered a suburb of Birmingham, the former coal mining community has a total area of 8.8 square miles and is served by the Jefferson County Board of Education.  The violent crime rate in Pleasant Grove is 167.4, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.4%.

#13 Prattville

Located in Autauga and Elmore counties, the city of Prattville is home to 33,900 residents.  Considered a suburb of Montgomery, the community is nicknamed “The Fountain City” because of the abundance of artesian wells in the area and it is also a popular golf destination.  The violent crime rate here is 173.8, and residents of Prattville have a 3.8% chance of being affected by property crime.

#14 Gardendale

A city in Jefferson County, Gardendale is home to 13,800 residents.  Considered a northern suburb of Birmingham, the community encompasses 17.9 square miles and is now home to more than 400 businesses and four schools. The violent crime rate in Gardendale is 193.4, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 4.5%.

#15 Madison

Located in Madison and Limestone counties, the city of Madison is home to 42,900 residents.  Considered a suburb of Huntsville, the community was the site of a Civil War battle, and its largest employer is Intergraph, a computer software company.  The violent crime rate here is 205.2, and residents of Madison have a 2.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#16 Auburn

A city in Lee County, Auburn has a current population of 60,200 residents.  Best known as the home of Auburn University, this fast-growing city was named by U.S. News in its top ten places to live in the U.S. and has a growing list of high-tech and research firms within its borders.  The violent crime rate in Auburn is 240.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 3.5%.

#17 Sylacauga

Located in Talladega County, the city of Sylacauga is home to 12,700 residents.  The community has a long history in the marble industry, with its white marble bed stretching over 32 miles.  Such famous buildings as the U.S. Supreme Court, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial were created with Sylacauga marble.  The violent crime rate here is 259.3, and residents of Sylacauga have a  5% chance of being affected by property crime

#18 Saraland

A city in Mobile County, Saraland is home to 13,400 residents.  Considered a suburb of Mobile, the community encompasses 22 square miles, is served by the Saraland Board of Education, and is home to Shell Saraland Refinery operated by Shell. The violent crime rate in Saraland is 259.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 4%.

#19 Hueytown

Located in western Jefferson County, the city of Hueytown is home to 16,100 residents.  Considered a suburb of Birmingham, the community has a history in agriculture, steel, and coal mining, and was home to the dominant NASCAR racing group the Alabama Gang.  The violent crime rate here is 265.7, and residents of Hueytown have a 3.9% chance of being affected by property crime.

#20 Fairhope

A city in Baldwin County, Fairhope is home to 15,300 residents.  The community sits along the cliffs and shoreline of Mobile Bay, was named by Southern Living as the second best small town in the South, and is known for its fishing and resorts.  The violent crime rate in Fairhope is 272.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 4.1%.

#21 Jacksonville

Located in Calhoun County, the city of Jacksonville has a current population of 12,500 residents.  This fast-growing community encompasses 9.8 square miles and is home to Jacksonville State University, a public university with an enrollment of approximately 10,000 students.  The violent crime rate here is 343.1, and residents of Jacksonville have a 3.8% chance of being affected by property crime.

#22 Oxford

A city in Calhoun and Talladega counties, Oxford is home to 21,300 residents.  The community sits at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains, has two lakes, and share a border with the Talladega National Forest.  The violent crime rate in Oxford is 356.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 5.8%.

#23 Foley

Located in Baldwin County, the city of Foley is home to 14,600 residents.  Incorporated in 1915, the community encompasses 25.9 square miles, is served by the Baldwin County School District, and features its popular City of Foley Antique Rose Trail.  The violent crime rate here is 358.8, and residents of Foley have a 4.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#24 Montgomery

The largest city on our list, Montgomery is home to 374,500 residents.  Both the state capital and the county seat of Montgomery County, the city sits along the Alabama River, was named by USA Today as the “Best Historic City”, and is home to many large businesses and several universities.  The violent crime rate in Montgomery is 395.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 5.7%.

#25 Enterprise

Located in southeastern Coffee County, the city of Enterprise is home to 26,500 residents.  Founded in 1896, the community originally relied on cotton but switched to peanuts and became a leading national producer.  Enterprise features the famous Boll Weevil Monument and is home to the annual BamaJam music festival.  The violent crime rate here is 407.8, and residents of Enterprise have a 3.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

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15 Safest Cities in South Carolina 2016

South Carolina is located in the southeastern United States and is an Atlantic coastal state. Home to 4.8 million residents, it is the 23rd largest state in terms of population and the 40th by size. The state’s capital is Columbia, which is also its largest city and the region is still largely run by agriculture, followed by industrial outputs and tourism. South Carolina has beautiful landscape, with nearly 700 square miles of lakes, and an incredibly rich history. If you’d like to settle in The Palmetto State, here are the 15 safest cities in South Carolina.

Related: Check out our South Carolina Public Records guide.
Our list was compiled based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 498 for violent crime and 3,460 for property crime. This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

#1 Hanahan

Located in Berkeley County, the city of Hanahan has a current population of 12,900 residents.  The community has direct access to Charleston Harbor and is home to a portion of the Naval Weapons Station Charleston, which covers 27 square miles and supports 53 Military Commands and Federal Agencies.  Hanahan is the safest place to live in South Carolina, with a violent crime rate of 144, and the chance of being affected by property crime here just 1.8%.

#2 Summerville

A town in Dorchester, Berkeley, and Charleston counties, Summerville is home to 43,300 residents.  The community encompasses 18.1 square miles, has a history dating back to the Revolutionary War, and is known for its Flowertown Festival, the largest arts and crafts festival in the state.  Another safe choice, the violent crime rate here is 183.6, and residents of Summerville have a 2.9% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#3 Mauldin

Located in Greenville County, the city of Mauldin is home to 15,200 residents.  Incorporated for a second time in 1960, the community is served by the Greenville County School District and is the site of supermarket chain BI-LO’s headquarters.  The violent crime rate in Mauldin is 203.1, and the chance of being affected by property crime in the city is 1.9%.

#4 North Augusta

A city in Aiken County, North Augusta is home to 21,300 residents.  The community sits on the north bank of the Savannah River, is a popular tourist destination, and is the site of the annual Nike premier summer events for high school basketball.  The violent crime rate here is 212.6, and residents of North Augusta have a 4% of being involved in a property crime.

#5 Mount Pleasant

Located in Charleston County, the town of Mount Pleasant is home to 67,800 residents.  Considered a fast-growing suburb of Charleston, the community lies on the east side of Charleston Harbor and features a popular naval and maritime museum, where the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier is permanently docked. The violent crime rate in Mount Pleasant is 218.5, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is just 1.7%.

#6 Fort Mill

Also known as Fort Mill Township, this town in York County is home to 10,800 residents.  Situated on the North Carolina state line, the community is also considered a suburb of Charlotte (NC) and is home to several large businesses such as Mood Media, Continental Tire the Americas, and Spring Industries.  The violent crime rate here is 224.6, and residents of Fort Mill have a 2% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#7 Charleston

The largest city on our list, Charleston has a current population of 130,100 residents.  The city lies at the center of the state’s coastline on what is known as Charleston Harbor and is home to a busy port, a community rich in culture, a vibrant tourist industry, a strong education system, and a thriving economy. Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate in Charleston is 239, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 2.7%.

#8 Clemson

Located in Pickens and Anderson counties, the city of Clemson is home to 13,900 residents.  Considered a suburb of Greenville, the community is best known as the home of Clemson University, and is just 30 miles from the Blue Ridge Mountains.  The violent crime rate here is 298.3, and residents of Clemson have a 3.3% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#9 Simpsonville

A city in Greenville County, Simpsonville is home to 18,200 residents.  The community encompasses 8.8 square miles and is the site many diverse industries including Para-Chem, Kemet, Milliken, and Sealed Air.  The violent crime rate in Simpsonville is 302.7, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3.4%.

#10 Bluffton

Located in Beaufort County, the town of Bluffton is home to 12,800 residents.  Considered a part of the Lowcountry near Hilton Head, the community lies along the May River and is best known for its eclectic Old Town district.  The violent crime rate here is 303.4, and residents of Bluffton have a 3.5% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#11 Lexington

A town in Lexington County, Lexington is home to 20,900 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is just 12 miles from the state capital of Columbia, is close to Lake Murray, and has more than twenty buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  The violent crime rate in Lexington is 310.6, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 4.1%.

#12 Goose Creek

Located in Berkeley County, the city of Goose Creek has a current population of 35,900 residents.  Considered a suburb of Charleston, the community was established in 1961 and is home to a portion of the Naval Weapons Station Charleston.  The violent crime rate here is 312.9, and residents of Goose Creek have a 2.4% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#13 Port Royal

A town on Port Royal Island in Beaufort County, Port Royal is home to 10,600 residents.  A part of the Hilton Head area, the community now includes the Naval Hospital Beaufort and the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, that trains approximately 17,000 new Marines annually.  The violent crime rate in Port Royal is 330.5, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 2.2%.

#14 Irmo

Located in Richland and Lexington counties, the town of Irmo is home to 11,000 residents.  Just 12 miles northwest of downtown Columbia, the community was founded in 1890, is nicknamed the “Gateway to Lake Murray”, and is known for its annual Okra Strut festival and parade.  The violent crime rate here is 360, and residents of Irmo have a 2.5% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#15 Aiken

A city in Aiken County, Aiken has a current population of 29,400 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is a part of the Central Savannah River area and is home to the University of South Carolina at Aiken.  The violent crime rate in Aiken is 374.5, and residents of the city have a 5.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

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5 Safest Cities in Maryland 2016

Located in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States, Maryland is home to just over 6 million residents. It is one of the smallest and most densely populated states in the country, with its largest city being Baltimore and its capital being Annapolis in the north. One of the original thirteen colonies, Maryland is known as the birthplace of religious freedom and the state benefits from its proximity to the nation’s capital, with the highest median household income of any U.S. state. If you’d like to make the Old Line State your next home, we’re giving you the five safest cities in Maryland for 2016.

Related: Check out our Maryland Public Records guide.

Our list was compiled based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 446 for violent crime and 2,508 for property crime. This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

#1 Ocean Pines

Located in Worcester County, the town of Ocean Pines is home to 11,700 residents.  This is a residential community located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore with over 9 miles of waterfront property and 3,000 acres of wooded areas.  Community amenities include beaches, a yacht club, golf course, community center, and dedicated police force.  Ocean Pines is the safest place to live in Maryland, with a violent crime rate of 117.3, and the chance of being affected by property crime here just .06%.

#2 Havre de Grace

A city in Harford County, Havre de Grace has a current population of 12,900 residents.  Situated at the head of the Chesapeake Bay on the Susquehanna River, the community is home to the Concord Point Lighthouse and the popular Havre de Grace Historic District, which is the site of many businesses and museums. Another safe place in Maryland to call home, the violent crime rate here is 235.5, and residents of Havre de Grace have a 2.7% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#3 Easton

Located in Talbot County, the town of Easton is home to 16,600 residents.  Also the county seat, the community has several distinct neighborhoods and is the site of the Third Haven Meeting House, the oldest Quaker meeting house in the country.  The violent crime rate in Easton is 345.6, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is just 2.7%.

#4 Takoma Park

A city in Montgomery County, Takoma Park is home to 16,700 residents.  Considered a suburb of Washington D.C., the community borders the D.C. neighborhood of Takoma.   Takoma Park is known for its arts and music culture and is also home to Washington Adventist University, a private liberal arts college.  The violent crime rate here is 372.4, and residents of Takoma Park have a 2.8% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#5 Bel Air

Located in Harford County, the town of Bel Air is home to 10,100 residents.  Also the county seat, the community was founded in 1780, encompasses just 2.9 square miles, and has over twenty properties and locations listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Another safe choice in Maryland, the violent crime rate in Bel Air is 388.9, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3.5%.

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