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20 Safest Cities in Rhode Island 2016

Rhode IslandLocated in the New England region of the United States, Rhode Island is home to just over 1 million residents.  The smallest and second most densely populated U.S. state, it also has the longest name, which is officially the “State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.”  The state is bordered to the south by the Atlantic Ocean, and its largest city and capital is Providence.  Rhode Island was the first of the original U.S. colonies, and its major industries include government, healthcare, and financial services.  If you’d like to make The Ocean State your next home, here are the 20 safest cities in Rhode Island.
Related: Check out our Rhode Island 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 219 for violent crime and 2,174 for property crime.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

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#1 East Greenwich

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Located in Kent County, the town of East Greenwich is home to 13,100 residents.  Also the county seat, this affluent community was founded in 1677 and is known for its waterfront and historic districts.  East Greenwich is the safest place to live in Rhode Island, with a violent crime rate of 7.6, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.2%.

#2 Portsmouth

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A town in Newport County, Portsmouth is home to 17,300 residents.  The community encompasses 59.3 square miles, over half of which is water as much of the town lies on Aquidneck Island.  Portsmouth is also home to a branch of Raytheon and the headquarters of U.S. Sailing.  Another safe choice, the violent crime rate here is 28.9, and residents of Portsmouth have a 1.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#3 North Kingstown

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Located in Washington County, the town of North Kingston is home to 35,300 residents.  The community was founded in 1674, encompasses 58.3 square miles, and is the site of Casey Farm, one of the oldest operational farms in New England.  The violent crime rate in North Kingston is 34.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.6%.

#4 Barrington

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A town in Bristol County, Barrington is home to 16,300 residents.  This coastal community is 7 miles southeast of Providence, covers 15.4 square miles, and is served by the Barrington Public School District.  The violent crime rate here is 36.9, and residents of Barrington have a 1.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#5 Middletown

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Located in Newport County, the town of Middletown is home to 16,100 residents.  The community lies between Newport and Portsmouth on Aquidneck Island, and there are several beaches along its coastline.  The violent crime rate in Middletown is 37.3, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.6%.

#6 Narragansett

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A town in Washington County, Narragansett is home to 15,800 residents.    The community lies along the shores of Narragansett Bay, is bordered by the Pettaquamscutt River, and is a popular summer tourist destination.  The violent crime rate here is 38, and residents of Narragansett have a 1.7% chance of being affected by property crime.

#7 Scituate

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Located in Providence County, the town of Scituate is home to 10,300 residents.  First settled in 1710, the community lies next to the Scituate Reservoir, the largest freshwater system in the state, and is known for its popular annual Scituate Art Festival each fall.  The violent crime rate in Scituate is 38.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just .08%.

#8 Burrillville

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Another town in Providence County, Burrillville is home to 15,900 residents.  The community covers over 57 square miles, is divided into seven villages, and is a part of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, the nation’s newest national park.  The violent crime rate here is 50.2, and residents of Burrillville have a 1.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#9 Cumberland

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Also located in Providence County, the town of Cumberland is home to 33,500 residents.  The community was first settled in 1635, is known for its popular annual events such as Cumberlandfest and its 4th of July parade, and is the birthplace of the Cumberland Farms company.  The violent crime rate in Cumberland is 53.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.6%.

#10 Smithfield

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Another Providence County town, Smithfield has a current population of 21,400 residents.  The community was first settled in 1636, is home to Bryant University, and includes the historic villages of Greenville, Georgiaville, Stillwater, Hanton City, Esmond, and Mountaindale.  The violent crime rate here is 60.7, and residents of Smithfield have a 1.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#11 Bristol

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Located in Bristol County, the town of Bristol is home to 22,900 residents.  Also the county seat, the community was incorporated in 1746, shares a school system with nearby Warren, and operates in several major industries including tourism and boat building.  The violent crime rate in Bristol is 65.5, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.1%.

#12 Coventry

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A town in Kent County, Coventry is home to 35,000 residents.  This historic community was first settled in the 1700’s, is comprised of 15 villages, and has more than a dozen properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  The violent crime rate here is 71.7, and residents of Coventry have a 1.9% chance of being affected by property crime.

#13 Westerly

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Located in Washington County, the town of Westerly has a current population of 22,700 residents.  This coastal community is divided into several distinct villages, has miles of popular beaches, as well as salt ponds and a fresh water lake.  The violent crime rate in Westerly is 74.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.8%.

#14 North Smithfield

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A town in Providence County, North Smithfield is home to 11,900 residents.  Originally settled in 1666, the community is comprised of seven historic villages and has many sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  The violent crime rate here is 83.6, and residents of North Smithfield have a 2.7% chance of being affected by property crime.

#15 South Kingstown

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Located in Washington County, the town of South Kingstown is home to 30,600 residents.  The community includes eleven villages and encompasses 79.8 square miles, making it the largest town by land mass in the state.  The violent crime rate in South Kingstown is 85.2, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just .08%.

#16 Lincoln

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A town in Providence County, Lincoln is home to 21,100 residents.  This historic community was named after Abraham Lincoln, is a part of the lower Blackstone Valley, and is the site of the Lincoln Woods State Park as well as some large businesses including Amica Mutual Insurance and the Quality Assurance Review Center.  The violent crime rate here is 85.4, and residents of Lincoln have a 2.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#17 Warwick

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Located in Kent County, the city of Warwick is home to 82,600 residents.  The community is just 12 miles south of downtown Providence, is comprised of three dozen villages, and is the site of several major businesses that include Citizens Bank and MetLife.  The violent crime rate in Warwick is 124, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.5%.

#18 Johnston

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A town in Providence County, Johnston is home to 28,700 residents.  The community was incorporated in 1759, is served by the Johnston Public School System, and is the site of the headquarters of FM Global, an insurance company.  The violent crime rate here is 132.2, and residents of Johnston have a 1.8% chance of being affected by property crime.

#19 Tiverton

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Located in Newport County, the town of Tiverton is home to 15,700 residents.  The community is located across the Sakonnet River from Aquidneck Island and sits along the shores of Narragansett Bay.  The community also has two beaches and several historic properties.  The violent crime rate in Tiverton is 139.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.5%.

#20 East Providence

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A town in Providence County, East Providence has a current population of 47,000 residents.  The community covers 16.6 square miles, is comprised of three villages, and has fourteen miles of coastline along the Seekonk River.  The violent crime rate here is 151.1, and residents of East Providence have a 1.7% chance of being affected by property crime.

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10 Safest Cities in Maine 2016

MaineLocated in the northern New England region of the United States, Maine is home to 1.3 million residents.   The state is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and shares a border with Canada to the north.  The state is known for its jagged coastline, forested interior, and picturesque mountains, with its major industries being fishing, agriculture, and tourism.  Maine’s largest city is Portland on the coast and its capital is Augusta.  If you’d like to settle in The Pine Tree State, here are the 10 safest cities in Maine.

Related: Check out our Maine 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 128 for violent crime and 1,986 for property crime.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

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#1 York

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Located in York County, the town of York is home to 12,500 residents.  The community lies along the southern tip of the state on the Atlantic coast, is a popular summer resort destination, and has some of the highest real estate values in the region.  York is the safest place to live in Maine, with a violent crime rate of 15.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.9%.

#2 Falmouth

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A town in Cumberland County, Falmouth is home to 11,100 residents.  Considered a suburb of Portland, the community covers 36.3 square miles, and is the site of the Portland Yacht Club adjacent to one of the largest anchorages in the state.  Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate here is 26.7, and residents of Falmouth have a 1.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#3 Orono

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Located in Penobscot County, the town of Orono has a current population of 10,300 residents.  The community was settled in 1774, lies along the banks of the Penobscot River, and is home to the University of Maine.  Another safe choice, the violent crime rate in Orono is 28.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.9%.

#4 Scarborough

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A town in Cumberland County, Scarborough is home to 18,900 residents.  This coastal community is just 7 miles south of Portland, encompasses over 70 square miles, and is the site of the headquarters of Hannaford supermarkets.  The violent crime rate here is 52.7, and residents of Scarborough have a 2.6% chance of being affected by property crime.

#5 Kennebunk

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Located in York County, the town of Kennebunk is home to 10,700 residents.  Also a coastal town, the community was settled in 1621 and is the site of several beaches as well as the Blueberry Barrens, which as 1,500 acres of nature trails.  The violent crime rate in Kennebunk is 92, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.4%.

#6 Brunswick

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A town in Cumberland County, Brunswick has a current population of 20,200 residents.  The community sits on the north end of Casco Bay, has several historic districts and historic properties, and is home to Bowdoin College, a private liberal arts college.  The violent crime rate here is 98.3, and residents of Brunswick have a 2.9% chance of being affected by property crime.

#7 Windham

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Also located in Cumberland County, the town of Windham is home to 17,000 residents.  Considered a suburb of Portland, the community was incorporated in 1762, covers over 50 square miles, and sits adjacent to Sebago Lake.  The violent crime rate in Windham is 99.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.9%.

#8 Saco

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A town in York County, Saco is home to 18,400 residents.  Also considered a suburb of Portland, this coastal community is a popular summer tourist destination, as well as being the site of an amusement park and several large businesses.  The violent crime rate here is 129.1, and residents of Saco have a 2.5% chance of being affected by property crime.

#9 Gorham

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Located in Cumberland County, the town of Gorham has a current population of 16,300 residents.  Considered a bedroom community of nearby Portland, the town has several distinct villages and hamlets and is the site of one of the campuses of the University of Southern Maine.  The violent crime rate in Gorham is 133.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.2%.

#10 Westbrook

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Another town in Cumberland County, Westbrook is home 17,400 residents.  Also a Portland suburb, the community lies along the banks of the Presumpscot River, has several distinct neighborhoods, and hosts several large businesses including IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Sappi Ltd., and Sebago-Moc.  The violent crime rate here is 188, and residents of Westbrook have a 3.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

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15 Safest Cities in New Hampshire 2016

New HampshireLocated in the New England region of the United States, New Hampshire is home to 1.3 million residents.  The state is the 5th smallest and 9th least populated U.S. state, with its largest city being Manchester and its capital being Concord.  New Hampshire has neither a general sales tax nor a state or local income tax and it is noted for its extensive granite formations.   The state has many large ski resorts in the White Mountains, hosts a portion of the Appalachian Trail, and is known for its many quality educational institutions.  If you’d like to make The Granite State your next home, here are the 15 safest cities in New Hampshire so that you can make an informed choice.

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 1,963 for property crime.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

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#1 Merrimack

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Located in Hillsborough County, the town of Merrimack is home to 25,400 residents.  The community was incorporated in 1746, consists of four villages, and has several major employers that include PC Connection, Brookstone, Fidelity Investments, and Anheuser-Busch.  Merrimack is the safest place to live in New Hampshire, with a violent crime rate of 23.4, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just .08%.

#2 Amherst

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Another town in Hillsborough County, Amherst is home to 11,200 residents.  The community began as a land grant to soldiers in the early 1700’s, has several historic properties, and is the site of Hodgman State Forest and the Ponemah Bog Wildlife Sanctuary.  Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate here is 35.6, and residents of Amherst have a 1.9% chance of being affected by property crime.

#3 Bedford

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Also located in Hillsborough County, the town of Bedford is home to 21,200 residents.  Considered a suburb of Manchester, the community encompasses 33.1 square miles and is the site of Segway as well as several thriving retail centers.  The violent crime rate in Bedford is 37.6, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.8%.

#4 Goffstown

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Goffstown is another Hillsborough County town that has a current population of 17,600 residents.  The community was incorporated in 1761, covers 37.5 square miles, and is home to both Saint Anselm College and the New Hampshire State Prison for Women.  The violent crime rate here is 45.1, and residents of Goffstown have a 1.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#5 Pelham

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Located in Hillsborough County, the town of Pelham is home to 12,800 residents.  The community was settled in 1722, sits between Salem and Nashua, and is the site of the Abbott Bridge, the state’s oldest double-arched stone bridge.  The violent crime rate in Pelham is 84.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is 1.6%.

#6 Hanover

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A town in Grafton County, Hanover is home to 11,200 residents.  The community sits along the banks of the Connecticut River, hosts a section of the Appalachian Trail, and is the site of both Dartmouth College and a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers laboratory.  The violent crime rate here is 97.6, and residents of Hanover have a 2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#7 Londonderry

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Located in Rockingham County, the town of Londonderry is home to 24,100 residents. Considered a southern suburb of Manchester, the community is known for its many apple orchards and is the site of the headquarters of both Stoneyfield Farm and Blue Seal Feeds.  The violent crime rate in Londonderry is 103.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.6%.

#8 Windham

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Another town in Rockingham County, Windham is home to 13,500 residents.  The community lies between Manchester and Boston, covers 27.9 square miles, and is known for its historic properties including the Searles Castle.  The violent crime here is 109.8, and residents of Windham have a 1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#9 Exeter

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Also located in Rockingham County, the town of Exeter has a current population of 14,300 residents.  The community sits at the confluence of the Exeter and Squamscott rivers and is home to both SIG Sauer Inc. as well as Phillips Exeter Academy, a private university prep school.  The violent crime rate in Exeter is 111.3, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1%.

#10 Dover

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A city in Strafford County, Dover is home to 30,600 residents.  Also the county seat, the community was settled in 1623, covers 29 square miles, and is the site of a large hospital as well as the Woodman Institute Museum and the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire.  The violent crime rate here is 119.1, and residents of Dover have a 2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#11 Hudson

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Located in Hillsborough County, the town of Hudson is home to 24,400 residents.  The community sits opposite the city of Nashua along the banks of the Merrimack River, and its largest employers include the Hudson School District, Benchmark Electronics, and BAE Systems.  The violent crime rate in Hudson is 122.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.7%.

#12 Salem

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A city in Rockingham County, Salem has a current population of 28,700 residents.  First settled in 1652, the community covers 25.9 square miles and is home to a large mall as well as Canobie Lake Park and the America’s Stonehenge attraction.  The violent crime rate here is 131.4, and residents of Salem have a 3.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#13 Durham

Located in Strafford County, the town of Durham is home to 14,600 residents.  The community sits at the mouth of the Oyster River, has several historic properties, and is the site of the University of New Hampshire.  The violent crime rate in Durham is 142.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just .07%.

#14 Hampton

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A town in Rockingham County, Hampton is home to 14,900 residents.  This coastal community is the site of a popular beach destination called Hampton Beach, and the town is drained by both the Drakes and Hampton rivers.  The violent crime rate here is 161.2, and residents of Hampton have a 2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#15 Portsmouth

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Also located in Rockingham County, the city of Portsmouth is home to 21,200 residents.  Considered a historic seaport, the community is a popular tourist destination in the warmer months, and major employers here include Hospital Corporation of America, Liberty Mutual Insurance, and the National Passport Center.  The violent crime rate in Portsmouth is  163.1, and residents here have a 3.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

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5 Safest Cities in Idaho 2016

IdahoLocated in the northwestern region of the United States, Idaho is home to 1.6 million residents.    The state is the 14th largest and 7th least densely populated U.S. state, with Boise being both its capital and largest city.  The state shares a 45-mile international border with Canada and has a diverse landscape of mountains, farmland, and many rivers.  Every known type of gemstone has also been found within its borders.  The state has a strong agriculture industry, producing more than a third of the country’s supply of potatoes, but also participates in lumber, food processing, and technology.   If you’d like to settle in the Gem State, here are the 5 safest cities in Idaho.

Related: Check out our Idaho 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 1,855 for property crime.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

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#1 Rexburg

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Located in Madison County, the city of Rexburg has a current population of 25,400 residents.  Also the county seat, the community was incorporated in 1883, is close to the western entrance of Yellowstone National Park, and is home to Brigham Young University – Idaho.  Rexburg is the safest place to live in Idaho, with a violent crime rate of 34.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just .08%.

#2 Meridian

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A city in Ada County, Meridian is home to 85,000 residents.  Now the state’s third largest city, the community sits between the Boise and Snake rivers and major employers here include Blue Cross of Idaho and Scentsy.  Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate here is 119.1, and residents of Meridian have a 1.5% chance of being affected by property crime.

#3 Moscow

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Located in Latah County, the city of Moscow is home to 23,800 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is in the northern part of the state and is the site of two colleges, the University of Idaho and New Saint Andrews College.  The violent crime rate in Moscow is 132, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.7%.

#4 Lewiston

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A city in Nez Pierce County, Lewiston has a current population of 31,800 residents.  Also the county seat, the community sits at the confluence of the Clearwater and Snake rivers, is home to Lewis-Clark State College, and its Port of Lewiston is known as the farthest inland seaport in the Western United States.  The violent crime rate here is 170.1, and residents of Lewiston have a 3.9% chance of being affected by property crime.

#5 Post Falls

Located in Kootenai County, the city of Post Falls is home to 27,500 residents.  The community sits along the banks of the Spokane River, is just 20 miles east of Spokane, Washington, and has several major employers that include Ground Force and the Post Falls School District.  The violent crime rate in Post Falls is 183.8, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 3.4%.

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5 Safest Cities in West Virginia 2016

West VirginiaLocated in the Appalachian region of the United States, West Virginia is home to 1.8 million residents, with its capital and largest city being Charleston.  Much of the state’s economy in the 19th and 20th centuries was driven by its rich deposits of bituminous coal.   Coal is still a major concern here but now so is green energy, manufacturing, and tourism.  The state has many historical sites and state parks and is known for its hiking, whitewater rafting, fishing, and hunting opportunities.  If you’d like to make the Mountain State your next home, here are the 5 safest cities in West Virginia.

Related: Check out our West Virginia 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 302 for violent crime and 2,035 for property crime.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

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#1 Weirton

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Located in Hancock and Brooke counties, the city of Weirton is home to 19,700 residents.  The community was founded in 1793, sits along the banks of the Ohio River in the state’s northern panhandle, and is just 35 miles west of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  Weirton is the safest place to live in West Virginia, with a violent crime rate of 86.5, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.5%.

#2 Vienna

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A city in Wood County, Vienna is home to 10,700 residents.  This community also lies along the banks of the Ohio River, encompasses 3.4 square miles, and is the site of a 277-acre wildlife refuge.  Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate here is 120.7, and residents of Vienna have a 2.7% chance of being affected by property crime.

#3 St. Albans

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Located in Kanawha County, the city of St. Albans is home to 11,000 residents.  The community sits at the confluences of the Coal and Kanawha rivers, has a total area of 3.7 square miles, and is served by the Kanawha County School District.  The violent crime rate in St. Albans is 218.2, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 4.1%.

#4 Morgantown

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A city in Monongalia County, Morgantown has a current population of 29,600 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is the largest in the region, consists of several distinct neighborhoods, and is home to West Virginia University, a public land-grant university.  The violent crime rate here is 353.2, and residents of Morgantown have a 2.7% chance of being affected by property crime.

#5 Parkersburg

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Located in Wood County, the city of Parkersburg is home to 31,400 residents.  Also the county seat, the community lies on the banks of the Ohio River, is the site of several historic properties as well as West Virginia State University at Parkersburg and Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park.  The violent crime rate in Parkersburg is 462.6, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 5.3%.

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10 Safest Cities in Nebraska 2016

NebraskaLocated in the Midwestern and Great Plains regions of the United States, Nebraska is home to just under 1.9 million residents.  It’s first non-indigenous settlers were a result of the California Gold Rush, and the state remains a large agricultural base, with impressive yields of corn, soybeans, beef, and pork.  Nebraska has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation and its major cities include Omaha (largest) and Lincoln (state capital).  If you’re interested in settling in the Cornhusker State, here are the 10 safest cities in Nebraska.
Related: Check out our Nebraska 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 280 for violent crime and 2,523 for property crime.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

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#1 Papillion

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Located in Sarpy County, the city of Papillion is home 18,800 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is considered a suburb of Omaha, encompasses 6.4 square miles, and has a Triple-A minor league baseball team.  Papillion is the safest place to live in Nebraska, with a violent crime rate of 41.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 2.2%.

#2 La Vista

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Another city in Sarpy County, La Vista is home to 15,700 residents.  Also an Omaha suburb, the community was established in 1959, encompasses 4.2 square miles, and is served by the Papillion-La Vista Public School District.  Another safe place to call home in the state, the violent crime rate here is 61.6, and residents of La Vista have a 1.6% chance of being affected by property crime.

#3 Columbus

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Located in Platte County, the city of Columbus is home to 22,100 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is 85 miles west of Lincoln and hosts manufacturing companies that take advantage of its plentiful hydroelectric power from two generating stations.  Also a safe choice, the violent crime rate in Columbus is 88.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 2.1%.

#4 Bellevue

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A city in Sarpy County, Bellevue is home to 50,100 residents.  Considered a suburb of Omaha, the community is the oldest town in the state, is bordered on the east by the Missouri River, and is the site of the 1,400-acre Fontenelle Forest.  The violent crime rate here is 106.4, and residents of Bellevue have a 2.2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#5 Fremont

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Located in Dodge County, the city of Fremont is home to 26,300 residents.  Also the county seat, the community is 35 miles northwest of Omaha, lies on the banks of the Platte River, and continues to have strong ties to the agriculture industry.  The violent crime rate in Fremont is 108.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.6%.

#6 Norfolk

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A city in Madison County, Norfolk is home to 24,200 residents.  The community was founded in 1866, encompasses 10.7 square miles, and major employers here include Nucor, Affiliated Foods Midwest, and Faith Regional Health Services.  The violent crime rate here is 114.7, and residents of Norfolk have a 3.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#7 Scottsbluff

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Located in Scotts Bluff County, the city of Scottsbluff is home to 15,000 residents.  The community was founded in 1899, lies along the banks of the North Platte River and sits adjacent to the Scotts Bluff National Monument, which is now a U.S. National Park.  The violent crime rate in Scottsbluff is 125.2, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 3.7%.

#8 Kearney

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A city in Buffalo County, Kearney is home to 30,700 residents.  Also the county seat, the community was founded during the American Civil War and is the site of both the University of Nebraska at Kearney and the headquarters of Citizens Telecommunications Company of Nebraska.  The violent crime rate here is 133.8, and residents of Kearney have a 2.7% chance of being affected by property crime.

#9 Lexington

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Located in Dawson County, the city of Lexington is home to 10,200 residents.  Also the county seat, the community lies along the banks of the Platte River, encompasses 4.5 square miles, and is the site of a military vehicles museum.  The violent crime rate in Lexington is 154.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.9%.

#10 South Sioux City

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A city in Dakota County, South Sioux City is home to 13,300 residents.   The community sits on the Iowa state line and lies across the Missouri River from Sioux City, Iowa.  It is also known for its Annual Art Show that is held each spring.  The violent crime rate here is 156.9, and residents of South Sioux City have a 2.7% chance of being affected by property crime.

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15 Safest Cities in Kansas 2016

KansasLocated in the Midwestern region of the United States, Kansas is home to 2.9 million residents.  The state is the 15th largest state by land mass, with its capital being Topeka and its largest city being Wichita.  Kansas has a long history in agriculture which continues today, as it produces high yields of soybeans, corn, and wheat.  Aside from agriculture, major employers in the state are in the aviation, telecommunications, and automobile industries.  If you’d like to call The Sunflower State home, here are the 15 safest cities in Kansas to help you make an informed choice.

Related: Check out our Kansas 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 349 for violent crime and 2,735 for property crime.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

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#1 Leawood

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Located in Johnson County, the city of Leawood is home to 31,800 residents.  Considered a suburb of Kansas City, the community was established in 1948, has an extensive parks and recreation system, and is served by two different school districts.  Leawood is the safest place to live in Kansas, with a violent crime rate of 55.3, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.4%.

#2 Prairie Village

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Another city in Johnson County, Prairie Village is home to 21,400 residents.  Also a Kansas City suburb, the community has 12 city parks, an art gallery, and several popular shopping venues.  Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate here is 59.3, and residents of Prairie Village have a 1.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#3 Derby

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Located in Sedgwick County, the city of Derby is home to 22,100 residents.  Considered the largest suburb of Wichita, the community encompasses 9.6 square miles and is known for its Rock River Rapids Aquatic Park, Derby Skate Park, and local historical museum.  The violent crime rate in Derby is 107.2, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 2.3%.

#4 Andover

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A city in Butler County, Andover is home 11,700 residents.  Another Wichita suburb, the community has two public parks, two golf courses, and is known for its popular outdoor summer concert series.  The violent crime rate here is 109.8, and residents of Andover have a 2.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#5 Lenexa

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Located in Johnson County, the city of Lenexa is home to 48,100 residents.  Considered a suburb of Kansas City, the community encompasses 34.4 square miles, is the site of a large government records storage facility, and has other major employers that include UPS and Quest Diagnostics.  The violent crime rate in Lenexa is 117.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.9%.

#6 Shawnee

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Another city in Johnson County, Shawnee is home to 62,200 residents.  Also a part of the Kansas City Metro Area, the community includes a 120-acre lake, is served by two school districts, and was included on Money magazine’s list of “Best Places to Live.”  The violent crime rate here is 133.8, and residents of Shawnee have a 1.6% chance of being affected by property crime.

#7 Olathe

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Also located in Johnson County, the city of Olathe is home to 125,800 residents.  The community serves as the county seat, is the fourth largest city in the state, and is the site of several large companies including Honeywell, ALDI, Garmin, and Farmers Insurance Group.  The violent crime rate in Olathe is 148.6, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.9%.

#8 Overland Park

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Another city in Johnson County, Overland Park has a current population of 173,300 residents.  Another Kansas City suburb, the community is the second most populous in the state and is home to several college branches as well as the world headquarters of Sprint, YRC Worldwide, and Compass Minerals.  The violent crime rate here is 160.9, and residents of Overland Park have a 2.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#9 Gardner

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Also in Johnson County, the city of Gardner is home to 19,100 residents.  The community was founded in 1857 at the divide of the Santa Fe and Oregon/California Trails, encompasses 10.1 square miles, and is the site of a distribution center for The Coleman Company.  The violent crime rate in Gardner is 179.2, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.7%.

#10 Lansing

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Located in Leavenworth County, the city of Lansing is home to 11,200 residents.  The community lies on the banks of the Missouri River, is the site of the Lansing Correctional Facility, and has been included on Money’s list of “Best Places to Live.”  The violent crime rate here is 183.5, and residents of Lansing have a .05% chance of being affected by property crime.

#11 Emporia

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A city in Lyon County, Emporia has a current population of 24,900 residents.  Also the county seat, the community lies between the cities of Topeka and Wichita and is home to two colleges, Flint Hills Technical College and Emporia State University.  The violent crime rate in Emporia is 227.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 3.3%.

#12 McPherson

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Located in McPherson County, the city of McPherson is home to 13,100 residents.  Also the county seat, the community was named after a Union Civil War general, is the site of two private colleges, and is known for its annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games.  The violent crime rate here is 241.5, and residents of McPherson have a 4.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#13 Ottawa

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A city in Franklin County, Ottawa is home to 12,600 residents. Also the county seat, the community lies along the banks of the Marais des Cygnes River, is the site of Ottawa University, and has two major distribution centers for American Eagle Outfitters and Walmart.  The violent crime rate in Ottawa is 291.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.3%.

#14 Liberal

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Located in Seward County, the city of Liberal is home to 20,500 residents.  Also the county seat, the community encompasses 11.7 square miles, and its economy is driven by both agriculture and energy, with the beef industry being its largest source of employment.  The violent crime rate here is 319.5, and residents of Liberal have a 2.7% chance of being affected by property crime.

#15 Salina

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A city in Saline County, Salina is home to 47,700 residents.  Also the county seat, the community lies in one of the world’s largest wheat-producing regions and other major employers here include Tony’s Pizza, Exide Battery, and the regional healthcare center.  The violent crime rate in Salina is 334.3, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 4.8%.

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5 Safest Cities in New Mexico 2016

New MexicoLocated in the Southwestern region of the United States, New Mexico is home to just under 2.1 million residents.  The state is the 5th largest and 6th least densely populated U.S. state, with its capital being Santa Fe and its largest city being Albuquerque.  New Mexico’s major industries include tourism, oil and gas production, aerospace, and U.S. government/military spending.  Some of the country’s most popular parks and monuments are in the state including Carlsbad Caverns, the Rio Grande Gorge, and White Sands National Monument.  If you’re interested in living in The Land of Enchantment, here are the 5 safest cities in New Mexico.

Related: Check out our New Mexico 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 597 for violent crime and 3,542 for property crime.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.

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#1 Sunland Park

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Located in Dona Ana County, the city of Sunland Park is home to 15,400 residents.  Considered a suburb of El Paso, the community lies on the border of both Texas and Mexico, is near Mount Cristo Rey, and is the site of the popular Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino.  Sunland Park is the safest place to live in New Mexico, with a violent crime rate of 41.6, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.3%.

#2 Rio Rancho

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A city in Sandoval County, Rio Rancho is home to 93,800 residents.  Considered a suburb of Albuquerque, this fast-growing community is the site of several large employers including Intel, Hewlett-Packard, Sprint, and Bank of America.  Another safe place to call home, the violent crime rate here is 225.8, and residents of Rio Rancho have a 2.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#3 Alamogordo

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Located in Otero County, the city of Alamogordo is home to 30,400 residents.  Also the county seat, the community lies in the Chihuahuan desert, is the site of several museums, and is the city closest to Holloman Air Force Base, which is a major area employer.  The violent crime rate in Alamogordo is 286.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.6%.

#4 Las Cruces

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A city in Dona Ana County, Las Cruces has a current population of 101,400 residents.  Las Cruces is the second largest city in the state, is close to El Paso, and is home to New Mexico State University as well as the home offices of Virgin Atlantic and Spaceport America.  The violent crime rate here is 394.7, and residents of Las Cruces have a 4.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#5 Lovington

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Located in Lea County, the city of Lovington is home to 11,000 residents.  Also the county seat, the community sits in the southeast region of the state, encompasses 4.8 square miles, and is served by the Lovington Municipal School District.  The violent crime rate in Lovington is 403.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 2%.

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