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50 Safest Cities in Illinois 2016

IllinoisThe Land of Lincoln is the 5th most populous state in the U.S., with over 12.8 million residents and its largest city, Chicago, is the third most populated in the country. While much of Illinois’ population is centered around Chicago, there are many places to live in this beautiful state and we’re going to tell you which ones are the safest. Here are the 50 safest cities in Illinois based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 370 for violent crime and 2,076 for property crime. This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000. No matter what part of The Prairie State you’d like to call home, you’ll be safe in one of these destinations.
Related: Check out our Illinois Public Records guide.

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#1 Western Springs

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A village located in Cook County, Western Springs is a suburb of Chicago and is home to 12,900 residents.  Named by Business Week as one of the best places to raise children, the community is home to nearly a dozen parks and is the safest place to live in Illinois.  The violent crime rate here is just 7.7, and property crime is almost non-existent, with residents having a .03% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#2 Geneva

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Located in Kane County, Geneva is considered a western Chicago suburb and also serves as the county seat.  This city of 21,700 residents sits along the Fox River and is known for its extensive bike trail system on the Illinois Prairie Path and Fox River Trail.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 9.2 and the chance of being affected by property crime just 1.2%.

#3 Barrington

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An affluent village in both Lake and Cook Counties, Barrington is located approximately 32 miles northwest of Chicago. Home to 10,300 residents, the community is known for its country-suburban setting that features parks, horse trails, preserves, and wetlands.  Barrington is a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 9.6 and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.4%.

#4 Hinsdale

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Another western Chicago suburb, the Village of Hinsdale is located in both Cook and DuPage Counties.  Home to 16,800 residents, the town’s zip code is in the top 1% wealthiest in the state and is accessible to downtown Chicago via a 22-minute express train ride.  Living here is safe, with a violent crime rate of 11.8 and just a 1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#5 Buffalo Grove

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Considered a northern suburb of Chicago, Buffalo Grove is located in Cook and Lake Counties.  Home to 41,400 residents, the village has 50 parks and 45 miles of bike paths for residents.  The violent crime rate here is 12 and residents have just a .08% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#6 Channahon

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A village in both Grundy and Will counties, Channahon is home to 12,500 residents.  The village is positioned where the Des Plaines and Kankakee Rivers converge, forming the Illinois River and it is home to Channahon State Park.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 15.8 the chance of being affected by property crime just .06%.

#7 Deerfield

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Located approximately 25 miles north of Chicago in Cook and Lake Counties, Deerfield is a village of 18,200 residents.  The village is home to several corporate headquarters such as Walgreens and Baxter International and was included on Business Week’s list of best places to raise children. The violent crime rate here is 16.4, and residents have a 1.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#8 Morton Grove

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A village in Cook County, Morton Grove is home to 23,200 residents.  Nicknamed “The Grove”, the community was established in 1895 by early German settlers and is a safe place to call home.  The violent crime rate in Morton Grove is 17.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.7%.

#9 Burr Ridge

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Another suburb of Chicago, the Village of Burr Ridge is located in both Cook and DuPage Counties.  Home to 10,500 residents, the community’s proximity to Chicago make it both popular for development and the location of several large business parks. The violent crime rate here is 18.8, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Burr Ridge is 1.4%.

#10 Wheaton

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Located in Milton and Winfield Townships, Wheaton is a city of 53,400 residents.  Also the county seat of DuPage County, the city is home to Wheaton College, the Illinois Institute of Technology, and several private schools.  Living in Wheaton is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 22.5 and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1%.

#11 Libertyville

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An affluent northern suburb of Chicago, Libertyville is a village located in Lake County.  Home to 20,300 residents, the community is just 5 miles west of Lake Michigan and was named by CNN Travel as one of America’s best small town comebacks.  The violent crime rate in Libertyville is 24.5, and residents have a 1.5% chance of being affected by property crime.

#12 Huntley

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Located in McHenry and Kane Counties, Huntley is a village of 24,200 residents.  This outer Chicago suburb is known for its Premium Outlets Mall and as being the home to the largest retirement community in the Midwest, called Sun City.  The violent crime rate in Huntley is 24.6, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just .08%.

#13 Orland Park

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Another suburb of southwest Chicago, Orland Park is a village in Cook County.  Home to 56,700 residents, the community has a thriving retail/commercial sector as well as an extensive parks system for residents.  The violent crime rate here is 28, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Orland Park is 2.3%.

#14 La Grange Park

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Another village in Cook County, La Grange Park is home to 13,500 residents.  The village is known for its historic homes, award-winning schools, and ample parks and recreation system.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 29.3 and the chance of being involved in a property crime just .07%.

#15 Northbrook

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Located in Cook County, Northbrook is a village on Chicago’s affluent North Shore.  Home to 33,100 residents, several corporate headquarters are located here such as Underwriters Laboratories and Crate & Barrel.  The violent crime rate in Northbrook is 30, and residents have just a 1.5% chance of being affected by property crime.

#16 Winnetka

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Located 16 miles north of downtown Chicago, Winnetka is a village in northern Cook County.  Home to 12,100 residents, the community was named the richest town in the state and the second richest in the country.  It is certainly a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 32.7 and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.3%.

#17 Palos Hills

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A southwest Chicago suburb, Palos Hills is located in Cook County and is home to 17,400 residents.  Established in 1969, the city covers just 4.29 square miles and is served by the North Palos School District.  The violent crime rate here is 34.2, and residents have just a  .07% chance of being affected by property crime.

#18 Minooka

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A village in Grundy, Kendall, and Will Counties, Minooka is home to 10,900 residents.  This growing community is considered a thriving spot for residential, commercial, and industrial activity as well as being a safe place to call home.  The violent crime rate in Minooka is 36.5, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.3%.

#19 Warrenville

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Located in DuPage County, Warrenville is a city of 13,100 residents.  The city encompasses 5.62 square miles and is considered a part of the Illinois Technology and Research Corridor.  Living in Warrenville is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 37.8 and the chance of being affected by property crime here just 1.1%.

#20 Wilmette

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A village in the New Trier Township, Wilmette is located in Cook County and is just 14 miles north of downtown Chicago.  Home to 27,000 residents, this bedroom community was ranked the best place to live in Illinois in 2015.  The violent crime rate here is 40.4, and residents have a 1.5% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#21 Lake Zurich

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A village in Lake County in a northwest suburb of Chicago, Lake Zurich is named for the body of water that resides completely within the community.  Home to 19,600 residents, the community was named by U.S. News as a top affordable place to live in the U.S. and by Nerdwallet.com as number one for families in the state.  The violent crime rate here is 40.6, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Lake Zurich is 1.4%.

#22 Lindenhurst

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A village within the Lake Villa Township in Lake County, Lindenhurst is home to 14,400 residents.  The village is known for its selective land annexation and tight restrictions, that have allowed it to maintain its small-town atmosphere.  The violent crime rate here is 41.3 and residents have just a .06% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#23 Palatine

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Located in Cook County, the village of Palatine is a northwestern suburb of Chicago.  Home to 69,300 residents, the village is known for its popular annual celebrations such as its summer Streetfest and its Fourth of July Celebration.  The violent crime rate in Palatine is 42.1, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 1.2%.

#24 Wood Dale

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A city in Addison Township in DuPage County, Wood Dale is home to 13,700 residents.  Originally known as Lester’s Station after an early settler, the city encompasses 4.84 square miles and is a safe place to call home.  The violent crime rate in Wood Dale is 43.3, and residents have a 1.6% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#25 Cary

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Located in Algonquin Township in McHenry County, Cary is a village with a population of 18,200 residents. The village was founded in 1841 and is served by several different public school districts.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 43.7 and the chance of being affected by property crime in the village just 1.1%.

#26 Plano

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Located in Kendall County near Aurora, Plano is a city of 10,800 residents.  A longtime agricultural community, the town was used as a setting for the 2011 Superman movie, Man of Steel, and now holds an annual celebration called “Smallville Superfest” each August.  The violent crime rate in Plano is 45.3, and residents have a 1.2% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#27 Worth

Barges are on a stately and constant parade next to the Calumet-Sag Trail.

A village in Cook County, Worth is considered a suburb of Chicago.  Home to 10,700 residents, the village encompasses just 2.38 square miles and is considered a safe place to call home.  The violent crime rate in Worth is 46.1, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is just 1.1%.

#28 Palos Heights

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Also located in Cook County, Palos Heights is a city of 12,500 residents.  The city is made of up nine distinct neighborhoods and is served by four different school districts.  The violent crime rate here is 47.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime in Palos Heights is less than 1%.

#29 Oswego

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A village in Kendall County, Oswego is home to 30,300 residents.  Part of the village sits adjacent to the Fox River, and the community was named by CNNMoney in its top 100 best towns to live.  The violent crime rate in Oswego is 51.8, and residents have a 1.6% chance of being affected by property crime.

#30 Roselle

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A village in DuPage and Cook Counties, Roselle is home to 22,700 residents.  Considered a western suburb of Chicago, the village is home to the Lynfred Winery and is undergoing a downtown redevelopment project.  The violent crime rate here is 52.3, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is 1.3%.

#31 St. Charles

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Another Chicago suburb, St. Charles is a city in Kane County that is home to 33,300 residents.  The city’s motto is “Pride of the Fox” as the Fox River runs through the center of town.  The downtown district has been ranked in the region’s top 10 by the Chicago Tribune, and this is a safe place to live. The violent crime rate in St. Charles is 54.1, and residents have a 1.5% chance of being affected by property crime here.

#32 Arlington Heights

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Located in Cook County, the village of Arlington Heights is approximately 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago.  Home to 75,100 residents, it is the most populous “village” in the U.S. and is known for its Arlington Park Race Track where an annual Breeders’ Cup qualifying event is held.  The violent crime rate here is 54.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is just 1.5%.

#33 Frankfort

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A village in Will and Cook Counties, Frankfort is home to 17,700 residents.  At one time it was named one of the fastest growing communities in the U.S., and it encompasses just under 15 square miles of land.  The violent crime rate in Frankfort is 55.9, and residents have a 1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#34 Shorewood

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Located in Will County, Shorewood is a village of 15,600 residents.  The village sits along the DuPage River and had its start as a fishing and resort community.  With a developed town center and many parks, this is a safe place to call home.  The violent crime rate in Shorewood is 57.3, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.2%.

#35 Glen Ellyn

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A village in DuPage County, Glen Ellyn is home to 27,400 residents.  The village sits about 25 miles west of Chicago and is home to its Lake Ellyn and the main campus of College of DuPage.  The violent crime rate here is 57.8, and residents have a 1.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#36 Mokena

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A village in Will County, Mokena has a current population of 18,700 residents. The town’s name is derived from a Native American word meaning “turtle.”  It is also home to Joliet Junior College, the nation’s first public community college.  The violent crime rate in Mokena is 58.3, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.1%.

#37 Park Ridge

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A northwest Chicago suburb, Park Ridge is located in Cook County and is home to 37,400 residents.  This town actually sits on a ridge and is the hometown to such notable figures as Harrison Ford and Hilary Rodham Clinton.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 58.4 and your chance of being affected by property crime here just 1.2%.

#38 Darien

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Located in DuPage County, Darien is a city of 22,000 residents.  Named after the Connecticut town by New England settlers, the town’s motto is “A nice place to live.”  It is also a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 58.4, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.3%.

#39 Streator

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Located in north-central Illinois in LaSalle and Livingston Counties, Streator is home to 13,700 residents.  The city sits along the Vermilion River in a region known as Streatorland. With a history in coal, much of the local economy is still tied to natural resources. The violent crime rate here is 58.5, and residents have a 3.1% of being affected by property crime.

#40 Bloomingdale

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A village in DuPage County, Bloomingdale is located approximately 25 miles west of Chicago.  Home to 22,000 residents, this is one of the earliest settled villages in the county, and there are many current shopping and recreational opportunities here.  The violent crime rate in Bloomingdale is 58.6, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is 2.9%.

#41 Mount Prospect

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Located approximately 22 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Mount Prospect is a village in Cook County.  Home to 54,100 residents, the village was named by Business Week as the best city in which to raise children.  The violent crime rate here is 58.8, and residents have a 1.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#42 Lockport

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A city in Will County, Lockport is home to 25,000 residents. Nicknamed “City of Historic Pride”, Lockport is known for its role along the Illinois and Michigan Canal, which originally linked these two rivers to the Great Lakes.  This is also a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 60 and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.2%.

#43 Downers Grove

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A village in southern DuPage County, Downers Grove is considered a western suburb of Chicago and is home to 49,700 residents.  The village is home to several national headquarters such as Advocate Health Care and Dover Corporation as well as the regional offices of Microsoft, MetLife, and State Farm. The violent crime rate here is 60.2, and residents have a 2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#44 Glen Carbon

Snow, + Trees + Tractor = Pretty

Located 19 miles northeast of St. Louis, Glen Carbon is a village in Madison County.  Home to 12,900 residents, the community is served by one of the top-rated school districts in the state and has three large parks for residents.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 62 and the chance of being involved in a property crime just .05%.

#45 Elk Grove Village

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Located in both Cook and DuPage Counties, Elk Grove Village is a village of 33,100 residents.  The village sits adjacent to Chicago O’Hare International Airport and is home to the largest industrial park in the country.  The violent crime rate here is 63.1, and the chance of being affected by property crime in Elk Grove Village is just 2%.

#46 Vernon Hills

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An affluent northern suburb of Chicago, Vernon Hills is a village located in Lake County.  Home to 20,100 residents, many of the village’s top employers are corporate headquarters. These include Zebra Technologies, CDW, and American Hotel Register.  The violent crime rate in Vernon Hills is 71.4, and residents have a 2.2% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#47 Lake Forest

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Located on the shore of Lake Michigan in Lake County, Lake Forest is a city in Chicago’s North Shore area.  Home to 19,300 residents, the area is noted for its history of polo and has been named a Tree City USA for 26 years.  The violent crime rate here is 72, and there is almost no chance of being affected by property crime in Lake Forest at just .02%.

#48 Elmhurst

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A city in DuPage and Cook Counties, Elmhurst is considered a western Chicago suburb and is home to 45,100 residents.  The city is home to Elmhurst College and an annual Memorial Day Parade that has been running since 1918.  The violent crime rate in Elmhurst is 72, and residents have a 1.3% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#49 Wauconda

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Located in Lake County, Wauconda is a village of 13,600 residents.  The community is home to the Wauconda Bog Nature Preserve, a National Natural Landmark, and this is a safe place to call home.  The violent crime rate in Wauconda is 73.2, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 1.1%.

#50 Sycamore

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A city in DeKalb County, Sycamore is home to 17,500 residents.  The city serves as the county seat and is the site of the popular and long-running Sycamore Pumpkin Festival each fall.  The violent crime rate in Sycamore is 74.5, and residents have a 1.4% chance of being involved in a property crime.

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50 Safest Cities in New York 2016

New York

The Empire State is home to 8.5 million people and is the fourth most populous state in the country. When most people think of New York, they think New York City, which happens to be the most populated city in the United States. Living in New York is a dream for some and a necessity for others due to work. We’re giving you the 50 safest cities in the state based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 382 for violent crime and 1,718 for property crime. This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000. If living in the great state of New York is in your future, you’ll be safe in one of these cities.
Related: Check out our New York Public Recordsguide.

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#1 Kent

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Named after an early settler’s family, the town of Kent is located in northern Putnam County.  This town of 13,500 residents is home to a number of lakes and reservoirs that also serve as a water supply for New York City.  Kent is the safest place to live in New York, with no violent crime and the chance of being affected by property crime just .06%.

#2 Port Washington

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Port Washington is considered a hamlet within and governed by the town of North Hempstead.  Located on the North Shore of Long Island, this community of 15,800 residents is known for its golf courses, marinas, parks, and yacht clubs.  It is also a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of just 10.5 and a .06% chance of being involved in a property crime here.

#3 Scarsdale

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Located in the northern suburbs of New York City, Scarsdale is considered both a town and a village. Home to 17,100 residents, Scarsdale has been named on CNN Money’s list of “top earning towns” with a median family income of almost $300,000.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 11.5 and the chance of being affected by property crime just .08%.

#4 East Aurora

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Also both a village and town, East Aurora is located in Erie County southeast of Buffalo and has a population of 6,200 residents.  The town is known as the birthplace and headquarters of Fisher-Price and was named by Niche as one of the best towns to raise a family in New York. The violent crime rate here is 14.4, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is 1.1%.

#5 Tarrytown

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A village of 11,200 residents, Tarrytown is located in the town of Greenburgh in Westchester County, approximately 25 miles north of midtown Manhattan.  The village was on the underground railroad route during the Civil War and was once a favorite residence of John D. Rockefeller. Tarrytown is certainly a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 17.5 and the chance of being affected by property crime just .08%.

#6 Floral Park

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Located on Long Island in Nassau County, Floral Park is an incorporated village of 15,800 residents.  Once a part of Queens, the village incorporated in 1908 and consists of Cape Cod-style homes.  Floral Park is a safe place to live in the city, with a violent crime rate of 18.7 and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just .03%.

#7 Eastchester

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Located in southern Westchester County, Eastchester is a town of 32,300 residents.  Within the town are the villages of Bronxville, Tuckahoe, and Eastchester.  This historic town is a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 20.2 and a 1.1% chance of being affected by property crime here.

#8 Shawangunk

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A town in southwestern Ulster County, Shawangunk was first settled by Europeans around 1670.  Home to 14,300 residents, the town sits at the base of the Shawangunk Mountains and the nearby Catskills.  The violent crime rate here is 20.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is just .08%.

#9 Garden City

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Located in central Nassau County, Garden City is a village in the town of Hempstead with 22,300 residents.  The village was the site of the start of Charles Lindbergh’s landmark transatlantic flight and is home to Adelphi University’s main campus.  The violent crime rate in Garden City is 22.2, and residents have a 1.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#10 Mamaroneck

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A town in Westchester County, Mamaroneck was listed by Movoto as one of the top 10 places to live in the New York.  Home to 29,100 residents, the town contains the villages of Larchmont and Mamaroneck and is a safe place to call home.  The violent crime rate here is 24.7, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is 1.2%.

#11 North Castle

9-11 memorial at Kensico Dam Park

Also located in Westchester County, the town of North Castle is home to 11,800 residents.  North Castle is home to three hamlets: North White Plains, Banksville, and Armonk, which is also known as the home of IBM’s world headquarters. The violent crime rate here is 25, and residents have just a .07% chance of being affected by property crime.

#12 Stony Point

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Considered a part of the New York City area, Stony Point is located in Rockland County, west of the Hudson River.  This town of 15,000 residents is home to nine hamlets as well as the historic Stony Point Light lighthouse.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 26.1 and the chance of being involved in a property crime just .05%.

#13 Suffern

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A village in the town Ramapo in Rockland County, Suffern is home to 10,700 residents.  The area has a rich history dating back to the Revolutionary War and is currently home to Avon’s Global R&D facility.  The violent crime rate here is 27.5, and residents of Suffern have just a .05% chance of being affected by property crime.

#14 Lloyd

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Located in Ulster County, the town of Lloyd sits on the opposite side of the Hudson River from the city of Poughkeepsie.  Home to 10,800 residents, Lloyd has several hamlets and is home to Franny Reese State Park.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 27.5 and the chance of being involved in a property crime just 1.2%.

#15 Fishkill

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Considered a suburb of New York City, Fishkill is both a town and a village in Dutchess County.  Home to 22,100 residents, the town’s name is derived from the Dutch phrase vis kill, which means “fish creek.” This is a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 29.9 and the chance of being affected by property crime here at 1.4%.

#16 Carmel

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Located in southern Putnam County, the town of Carmel is home to 34,300 residents.  The town is home to several hamlets as well as the second oldest working courthouse in the state.  The violent crime rate in Carmel is 34.7, and residents have just a .08% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#17 Yorktown Heights

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Located in Westchester County, Yorktown Heights is home to just 1,700 residents and is located within the town of Yorktown.  Just 45 miles from New York City, the area is a popular hiking destination with its Turkey Mountain and surrounding land.  The violent crime rate here is 35.6, and the chance of being affected by property crime is just 1%.

#18 Lewiston

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Both a town and a village, Lewiston is located in Niagara County and is home to 16,200 residents.  The town was formed in 1818 and shares an international border with Canada.  The violent crime rate in Lewiston is 36.8, and you’ll have just a .09% chance of being involved in a property crime here.

#19 Harrison

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Located in Westchester County, Harrison is both a village and town that is home to 27,400 residents.  Located about 22 miles northeast of Manhattan, Harrison is home to many corporate headquarters such as Mastercard, Pepsico, and Polar Air Cargo.  The violent crime rate here is 39.6, and your chance of being affected by property crime is just .07%.

#20 Orchard Park

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Located east of Buffalo in Erie County, Orchard Park is a growing town of 29,000 residents.  The town has a total area of 38.5 square miles, and its Ralph Wilson Stadium is home to the NFL’s Buffalo Bills. The violent crime rate here is 41.1 and residents have a 1.4% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#21 Lancaster

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Also located east of Buffalo in Erie County, the town of Lancaster was incorporated in 1833 and has 41,600 residents.  The town has experienced rapid growth in recent years and has the largest high school in the county.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 41.9 and the chance of being affected by property crime just 1.4%.

#22 Bethlehem

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Located south of Albany in Albany County, Bethlehem is named after its biblical namesake and has a population of 33,600 residents. The town contains over a dozen hamlets, and its eastern border is aligned with the Hudson River.  The violent crime rate here is 47.4, and your chance of being involved in a property crime in Bethlehem is just 1.3%.

#23 Blooming Grove

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Located in Orange County, the town of Blooming Grove is home to 18,000 residents.  The Brotherhood Winery in the town’s Washingtonville Village is known as the oldest continuously operating winery in the U.S.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 48.9 and residents have less than a 1% chance of being affected by property crime here.

#24 Ogden

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A town in Monroe County, Ogden is home to 19,800 residents.  The town encompasses 36.8 square miles and is the site to a portion of the Erie Canal.  Ogden is a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 50 and the chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.1%.

#25 East Fishkill

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Sitting to the east of the town of Fishkill, East Fishkill is also located in Dutchess County in the state’s Hudson Valley.  This town of 29,000 residents is home to the Hudson Valley Research Park, which is where IBM and other tech companies fabricate silicon chips for their products.  The violent crime rate here is 51.3, and residents have just a .07% chance of being affected by property crime.

#26 Mount Pleasant

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Located in Westchester County, Mount Pleasant is a town of six villages and numerous hamlets.  Home to 43,700 residents, the town is also the location of the John D. Rockefeller estate, which has been designated as a National Historic Landmark.  The violent crime rate in Mount Pleasant is 52.8, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is less than 1%.

#27 Woodbury

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Woodbury is both a town and a village in Orange County with a population of 11,400 residents.  The town is most known for being home to the Woodbury Premium Outlets, one of the largest outlet malls in the world.  The violent crime rate here is 55.5, and residents have a 3.9% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#28 Geddes

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Located in Onondaga County in a western suburb of Syracuse, the town of Geddes is home to 17,100 residents.  The town was established in the mid-19th-century and was prominent in the salt, iron, and pottery business.  The violent crime rate in Geddes is 56.7, and your chance of being affected by property crime here is 2%.

#29 Vestal

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Located in Broome County between the Pennsylvania border and the Susquehanna River, Vestal is home to 28,000 residents.  The town is also home to Binghamton University and an extensive system of 21 town-operated parks.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 57.1 and a 2.2% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#30 Colonie

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Located in Albany County, the town of Colonie is considered the largest suburb of Albany, with 81,500 residents.  Founded in 1895, the area was once the location of many Shaker community farms. The violent crime rate in Colonie is 59.1, and your chance of being affected by property crime here is 2.7%.

#31 Webster

08~2009~IMG_0577 Photochallenge.org's 2009 daily challenge #230, nightlife. The Village of Webster, Main Street looking West to the four corners, 10pm on a Tuesday night.

Named after orator and statesman Daniel Webster, Webster is located in the northeast corner of Monroe County.  This town of 42,600 residents is bordered on the north by Lake Ontario and has been named as the “Number 1 Sportstown in New York” by Sports Illustrated.  The violent crime rate here is 60.6 and residents have a 1% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#32 Lynbrook

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An incorporated village located inside the town of Hempstead in Nassau County, Lynbrook is home to 19,400 residents.  The town’s name was derived by taking the name Brooklyn, dividing it and then re-arranging it and was a tribute to many of its original residents.  The violent crime rate here is 61.2, and your chance of being affected by property crime is just .08%.

#33 Bedford

Historic School House- Bedford NY

Located in Westchester County, Bedford is a town of 17,300 residents.  The town contains three hamlets and several locations that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 62.7 and the chance of being involved in a property crime less than 1%.

#34 Niskayuna

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Located in southeastern Schenectady County, Niskayuna has a population of 21,700 residents.  The town is home to the world headquarters of the four GE Global Research Centers.  This is considered a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 68.3 and the chance of being affected by property crime here just 1.6%.

#35 Guilderland

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Named for the Gelderland province of the Netherlands, the town of Guilderland is located in Albany County west of the city of Albany.  Home to 35,300 residents, the town covers 58.7 square miles and has ten hamlets.  The violent crime rate here is 68.3, and residents have a 1.9% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#36 Schodack

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Located in Rensselaer County, the town of Schodack is southeast of Albany.  Home to 12,700 residents, the town is bordered on the west by the Hudson River and is served by its own central school district.  The violent crime rate in Schodack is 70.7, the chance of being affected by property crime here is less than 1%.

#37 Saugerties

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A town in Ulster County, Saugerties is home to 19,400 residents and over twenty hamlets.  The town sits on the western bank of the Hudson River, and part of the town lies inside Catskill Park, a protected Forest Preserve in the Catskill Mountains. The violent crime rate here is 71.5, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is 1.7%.

#38 East Hampton

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Located in Suffolk County at the eastern end of Long Island, East Hampton is home to 21,400 residents.  The town has 70 miles of shoreline and eight state parks, with its Gardiners Island being one of the largest privately owned islands in the U.S.  The violent crime rate here is 71.5, and residents have a 2.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

#39 Amherst

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A town in Erie County near Buffalo, Amherst is home to 122,300 residents.  Considered the largest suburb of Buffalo, the town is home to four colleges including the north campus of the University of Buffalo.  The violent crime rate in Amherst is 74.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.9%.

#40 Brighton

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Located in Monroe County southeast of the city of Rochester, Brighton is home to 36,600 residents.  Portions of the Erie Canal pass through the town as does the Erie Canal Heritage Trail, known as one of the longest continuous off-road trails in the country. The violent crime rate here is 76, and residents have a 2.5% chance of being affected by property crime.

#41 Hamburg

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Named after the city in Germany, the town of Hamburg is located in Erie County and is home to 56,900 residents.  The town has sixteen different hamlets and its western border sits adjacent to the shores of Lake Erie.  The violent crime rate in Hamburg is 77.5, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.8%.

#42 Glenville

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Located in Schenectady County north of the Mohawk River, the town of Glenville has a population of 29,400 residents.  The town is regarded as a bedroom community to nearby Schenectady and Albany, and it is split among three public school districts.  The violent crime rate here is 77.6, and residents have a 1.8% chance of being affected by property crime.

#43 Rotterdam

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Founded by Dutch settlers and named after the Netherlands port, the town of Rotterdam is located in Schenectady County.  Home to 29,000 residents, the town has several hamlets and sits on the southwestern bank of the Mohawk River.  The violent crime rate here is 78.5, and residents have a 3.3% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#44 Ulster

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Located in Ulster County, the town of Ulster is home to 12,300 residents. The town encompasses 28.9 square miles and is bordered to the east by the Hudson River, with portions of the town sitting inside Catskill Park.  The violent crime rate in Ulster is 80.7, and the chance of being affected by property crime here is 4%.

#45 Camillus

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Located in central New York in Onondaga County, Camillus is a town of 24,100 residents.  Considered a suburb of Syracuse, the town has several hamlets and many planned residential neighborhoods. Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 82.3 and the chance of being involved in a property crime just 1.2%.

#46 East Greenbush

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A town in Rensselaer County and a suburb of Albany, East Greenbush is home to 16,400 residents. The town has several hamlets and has recently developed the Papscanee Preserve, dedicated to the Mohican natives of the area.  The violent crime rate here is 84.6, and residents have a 2.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

#47 Wallkill

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Located in Orange County, Wallkill is a town of 27,400 residents that was established in 1772.  Wallkill supported the American Revolution through its manufacture of gunpowder and was one of the towns to reject the Woodstock festival as a host in the 1960’s.  Living in Wallkill is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 86.5 and the chance of being involve in a property crime here just 2.3%.

#48 North Greenbush

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A town in the western part of Rensselaer County, North Greenbush is home to 12,000 residents. The town has three distinct hamlets and is served by four different school districts. The town also hosts a minor league baseball team and is a safe place to live. The violent crime rate here is 90.6, and residents have a 1.6% chance of being affected by property crime.

#49 Warwick

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An affluent town located in southwest Orange County, Warwick is home to 32,000 residents.  The town has three villages and eight hamlets, and is known for its popular annual festivals such as the Summer Arts Festival, The Hudson Valley Jazz Festival, and Applefest.  The violent crime rate in Warwick is 92, and your chance of being involved in a property crime here is 1.1%.

#50 New Hartford

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Located in Oneida County in Central New York, New Hartford is the largest suburb of Utica.  First settled in the 1700’s, the area became known as a pioneer of manufacturing for such things as carpeting, textiles, and nails.  The violent crime rate here is 92.4, and residents have a 4.3% chance of being affected by property crime.

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13

50 Safest Cities in Florida 2016

Florida

The Sunshine State is the third largest in the U.S. in terms of population. People come from all over the world to vacation in Florida and from all over the U.S. to live there. A popular retirement destination, Florida is known for its warm climate and miles of sandy beaches. We’ve ranked the 50 safest cities in the state based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. Rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 540 for violent crime and 3,415 for property crimes. This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000. If you’d like to make this unique state your home, here are the safest cities in Florida to add to your list.

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RelatedSee our Guide to Florida Public Records.

#1 Village Of Key Biscayne

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An island town in the Miami-Dade area, Key Biscayne is located south of Miami Beach and has a population of just 12,300 residents. The village is connected to the city of Miami by the Rickenbacker Causeway and is bordered on all sides by state and national parks. This is considered the safest spot in the state to reside, with a violent crime rate of just 23.4 and your chance of being involved in a property crime just 2.2%.

#2 Punta Gorda

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Located in Charlotte County on Florida’s west coast, Punta Gorda is the only incorporated municipality in the county. The city is a small historic town of 16,600 residents that is known for its boating and fishing opportunities. It is also a very safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 65 your chance of being affected by property crime here just 1.6%.

#3 Marco Island

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An affluent coastal community in Collier County in South Naples, Marco Island has a population of 16,400 residents. This Southwest Florida city is the largest barrier island in the Ten Thousand Islands area of the region, and this is a safe place to call home. The violent crime rate here is 70.7, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is just 1.2%.

#4 Parkland

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True to its name, the city of Parkland is known for its fierce protection of its parks, wildlife, and multi-use trails. The city of 28,100 residents is located in Broward County between West Boca Raton and the Everglades. Living in Parkland is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 80.9 and your chance of being affected by property crime less than 1%.

#5 Weston

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The most western city in Broward County, Weston is home to 65,300 residents and shares its western border with the Florida Everglades. Weston has been ranked in CNNMoney’s “Best Places to Live in America” and Family Circle’s “Ten Best Places for Families”. This is a safe choice to make a home, with a violent crime rate of 91.9 and the chance of being involved in a property crime less than 1%.

#6 Niceville

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Located in Okaloosa County in Florida’s Panhandle, the city of Niceville is a part of the Fort Walton Beach area. This city of 12,700 residents was originally known as Boggy as it sits on a bayou that opens onto to Choctawhatchee Bay. Niceville is a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 106.7 and just a 1.5% chance of being affected by property crime here.

#7 Port Orange

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Port Orange is a city on Florida’s east coast in Volusia County. This city of 57,200 residents is a part of the Daytona Beach area, and one of its high schools has consistently been ranked as one of the top in the nation. The violent crime rate here is 108.2, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is just 2.4%.

#8 Lighthouse Point

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Located in Broward County on Florida’s east coast, Lighthouse Point was named for the nearby Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse. This city of 10,300 residents encompasses just 2.4 square miles and lies adjacent to Pompano Beach. Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 112.4 a 3% chance of being affected by property crime in the city.

#9 Sunny Isles Beach

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A barrier island city in Miami-Dade County, Sunny Isles Beach has a population of 20,800 residents. The city is nicknamed “Little Moscow” for its large population of Russian residents and has sister cities in Israel, Italy, and Taiwan. Living here is safe, with a violent crime rate of 120.3 and the chance of being involved in a property crime just 2.1%.

#10 Hialeah Gardens

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Located on the far western outskirts of Miami-Dade County, the city of Hialeah Gardens is home to 21,700 residents. What began as a tourist camp in the early 20th-century has evolved into a growing bedroom community in the Miami area. The violent crime rate here is 124.1 you’ll have a 4.1% chance of being affected by property crime in this city.

#11 Aventura

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Named from the Spanish word for “adventure”, the city of Aventura is a planned suburban city in northeastern Miami-Dade County. The city of 35,700 residents is known as home to the 5th largest shopping mall in the U.S. The violent crime rate here is 137.4, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is 5.6%.

#12 Village Of Pinecrest

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Considered a suburban village, Pinecrest is located in Miami-Dade County. This affluent town of 18,200 residents has been consistently ranked one of the most expensive in the U.S. and has an extensive parks system. The violent crime rate in Pinecrest is 137.5, and you have a 3.9% chance of being affected by property crime here.

#13 Winter Springs

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Located in the Orlando area in Seminole County, Winter Springs is home to 33,800 residents. The city was ranked by Money Magazine in the past as one of the best places to live in the U.S., and it is also a safe choice. The violent crime rate here is 138.5, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is just 1%.

#14 Cape Coral

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Located in Lee County on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Cape Coral was founded and developed as a master-planned community. This city encompasses 120 square miles and is home to 181,200 residents, making it the largest city between Tampa and Miami. Cape Coral is a safe choice in Florida, with a violent crime rate of 143.5 and just a 2.2% chance of being affected by property crime here.

#15 Maitland

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A part of the Orlando area in Orange County, Maitland is a city of 15,700 residents. The city is known for its many 19th-century historic residences and its proximity to the area’s popular theme parks. The violent crime rate in Maitland is 147.3, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is just 2.7%.

#16 Lake Mary

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Another Orlando-area community, Lake Mary is located in Seminole County and is home to 13,800 residents. The town has been rated by Money Magazine as a “best place to live in America” as is home to AAA’s National Office. The violent crime rate here is 149, and residents have a 2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#17 Pembroke Pines

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Located in Broward County, Pembroke Pines is the 11th most populous city in the state with 154,700 residents. This diverse city is served by the Broward County School District and also operates its own charter school system. The violent crime rate here is 149, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 2.6%.

#18 North Palm Beach

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An unincorporated village in Palm Beach County, North Palm Beach is home to just 12,000 residents. What was former mangrove swamps and farmland were turned into a planned community complete with a public Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. The violent crime rate here is 154.2, and residents have a 1.9% chance of being affected by property crime.

#19 Naples

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Located in Collier County in southwest Florida, Naples is a city of 20,600 residents. Naples is one of the wealthiest cities in the U.S., with the second highest proportion of millionaires and the sixth highest per capita earning in the country. Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 158.3 and a 2.6% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#20 Cooper City

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A city in Broward County, Cooper City is home to 28,500 residents. The city has A-rated public schools and was named by Family Circle as one of the “top 10 towns for families”. The violent crime rate in Cooper City is 162.9, and residents have a 2.2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#21 Coral Gables

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Also known as “The Gables,” Coral Gables is a part of Miami-Dade County and is located southwest of downtown Miami. The city has a population of 49,600 residents and is home to the University of Miami. The violent crime rate here is 163.1, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is 4.7%.

#22 Miami Lakes

Perto da casa do Fernando, em Miami Lakes: patos passeiam junto ao canal.

An incorporated town and suburb of Miami, Miami Lakes has a population of 30,700 residents. This land that was once dairy farms has been considered a master-planned community from the start and is a safe place to call home. The violent crime rate here is 177.2, and residents have a 2.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#23 Coral Springs

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Located in Broward County, Coral Springs has 121,000 residents and no natural springs in its vicinity. The city was initially developed by WCI Communities and is now known for its strict building codes, livability, family-friendliness, and low crime. The violent crime rate here is 183.2, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is 2.2%.

#24 Venice

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Located in southern Sarasota County, the city of Venice has a population of 20,700 residents. Venice is known for its snowbird population and as being the “Shark’s Tooth Capital of the World.” The violent crime rate in Venice is 188.8, and residents have a 1.9% chance of being affected by property crime.

#25 Boca Raton

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The southernmost city in Palm Beach County, Boca Raton is home to 91,300 residents. The city is considered one of the wealthiest communities in South Florida and is the home to the corporate headquarters of Office Depot and ADT, as well as the main campus of Florida Atlantic University. The violent crime rate here is 189.6, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is 2.9%.

#26 Edgewater

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Located in Volusia County in the Daytona Beach area, Edgewater sits adjacent to the Indian River and the Mosquito Lagoon. This city of 20,700 residents that was originally called Hawks Park is both an affordable and safe place to live. The violent crime rate here is 190.1, and residents have a 2.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#27 Coconut Creek

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Named for the coconut trees planted in the area by early developers, Coconut Creek is located in Broward County and is home to 55,000 residents. Also the site of Butterfly World, the city has earned the nickname as “The Butterfly Capital of the World.” The violent crime rate here is 195.8, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is 2.9%.

#28 Lady Lake

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Located in Central Florida in Lake County, Lady Lake is considered a part of the Orlando area. This city of 13,200 residents has seven golf courses and is a safe choice to call home. The violent crime rate here is 202.7, and you’ll have just a 2.1% chance of being affected by property crime in Lady Lake.

#29 Jupiter

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Rated by Coastal Living as the 9th Happiest Seaside Town in America, Jupiter is located in northern Palm Beach County. This city of 60,600 residents is also known for its landmark Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. The violent crime rate in Jupiter is 202.9, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is 2.1%.

#30 Sebastian

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Located in Indian River County on Florida’s east coast, Sebastian is north of Vero Beach and is home to 21,900 residents. This seaside town on the Treasure Coast is also home to a prime surfing spot in the state at Sebastian Inlet State Park. The violent crime rate here is 214.6 and residents have a 2.7% chance of being affected by property crime.

#31 North Port

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Originally called North Port Charlotte, the city of North Port was developed by General Development Corporation and is located in southern Sarasota County. North Port has 57,300 residents and is known for its sprawling residential neighborhoods. The violent crime rate in North Port is 222, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is 1.8%.

#32 Palmetto Bay

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Located in Miami-Dade County, Palmetto Bay is an incorporated village of 23,400 residents. The village was severely damaged by 1992’s Hurricane Andrew and has been slowly rebuilt in the subsequent years. The violent crime rate in Palmetto Bay is 222.3, and residents have a 3.7% of being affected by property crime.

#33 Oviedo

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Located in the Orlando area in Seminole County, Oviedo is a fast-growing city of 33,300 residents. The city has two rivers running through it and sits adjacent to the University of Central Florida, one of the largest universities in the nation. The violent crime rate here is 223.6, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is just 1.5%.

#34 Rockledge

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The oldest city in Brevard County, Rockledge is part of the Melbourne area on Florida’s Space Coast. A city of 24,900 residents, there is an extensive parks system here as well as a vibrant economy. The violent crime rate in Rockledge is 225.5 and residents have a 2.4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#35 Port St Lucie

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Located in St. Lucie County on Florida’s east coast, Port St. Lucie has a current population of 171,000 residents. The city began as a fishing camp and is another product of General Development Corporation in the state. Now a vibrant and economically thriving community, Port St. Lucie is also a safe place to live. The violent crime rate here is 234.5 and residents have a 1.7% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#36 Fort Walton Beach

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Located in Florida’s Panhandle in Okaloosa County, Fort Walton Beach is home to 19,500 residents. The city is a beach and resort community that sees its population increase during summer and spring break each year. The violent crime rate here is 239.2, and the chance of being affected by property crime is 3.8%.

#37 Wellington

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A city in Palm Beach County, Wellington has a current population of 61,400 residents. Wellington was named by Money Magazine as one of its best places to live and is known as “The Winter Equestrian Capital of the World.” The violent crime rate in Wellington is 248.5, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 2.4%.

#38 Sweetwater

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Located in Miami-Dade County, Sweetwater is a suburban city of 13,400 residents. Also known as “Little Managua,” Sweetwater is home to the largest concentration of Nicaraguan Americans in the United States. The violent crime rate here is 260.8 and residents have a 4.8% chance of being affected by property crime.

#39 Margate

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Located in Broward County, the city of Margate has been built up from former Everglades marsh and farmlands. The city of 53,200 residents is home to three golf courses and a popular water park, called Calypso Cove. The violent crime rate in Margate is 261.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 2%.

#40 Eustis

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Located in Lake County, Eustis is a city of 19,100 residents that is considered a part of the Orlando area. The city’s motto is “America’s Hometown” and its annual GeorgeFest is known as the second longest ongoing event to honor George Washington. The violent crime rate in Eustis is 262.3, and residents have a 3.3%. chance of being affected by property crime.

#41 Seminole

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Named after the Seminole Indians who once inhabited the area, the city of Seminole is located in Pinellas County on Florida’s Gulf Coast. This city of 17,200 residents is known for its landmark mural-painted water tower and is a safe place to live. The violent crime rate in Seminole is 263.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 3%.

#42 Sunrise

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Located in the Miami area in Broward County, the city of Sunrise has a current population of 88,800 residents. Originally known as Sunrise Golf Village, the city was renamed in 1971 and is now home to several shopping, sports, and entertainment destinations in the region. The violent crime rate her is 263.9, and the chance of being affected by property crime is 3.7%.

#43 Miami Springs

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Founded during Florida’s famous “land boom” of the 1920’s, Miami Springs is located in Dade County and has a current population of 14,300 residents. Originally called Country Club Estates, the city was one of the first planned communities in the state. Living here remains a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 265.3 and a 3% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#44 Winter Park

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Located in Orange County in the Orlando area, Winter Park was originally founded as a resort community in the 19th century by northern business magnates. This city of 29,200 residents is a scenic area and is also known internationally for its annual Winter Park Sidewalk and Arts Festival. The violent crime rate here is 288.3, and residents have a 4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#45 Clermont

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Also in the Orlando area, Clermont is located in Lake County and is home to 30,200 residents. Clermont’s historic downtown hasn’t changed much in appearance since the 1960’s, and its distinctive Florida Citrus Tower is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. The violent crime rate in Clermont is 298.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.4%.

#46 Lynn Haven

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Located in Florida’s Panhandle in Bay County, the city of Lynn Haven is part of the Panama City area. The city is home to 18,400 residents and the only civil war monument in the South that is dedicated to Union soldiers. Living in Lynn Haven is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 312.8 and a 2.9% chance of being affected by property crime.

#47 Lake Wales

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Located in Central Florida in Polk County, Lake Wales is home to 15,100 residents. The city is home to a 185-acre scrub land preserve and to Bok Tower Gardens, which is a National Historic Landmark. The violent crime rate in Lake Wales is 315.2, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is 3.2%.

#48 Ormond Beach

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A city in the Daytona Beach area in Volusia County, Ormond Beach is home to 38,100 residents. The city encompasses 39 square miles and includes the Tomoka State Park, a 1,800-acre park along the Tomoka River. Living in Ormond Beach is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 315.5 and a 3.3% chance of being affected by property crime in the city.

#49 Plantation

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Located in Broward County, the city of Plantation was named after the prior owner of the land, the Everglades Plantation Company. This city of 87,400 residents suffered extensive damage from 2005’s Hurricane Wilma and is home to many corporate headquarters, such as DHL America and the University of Phoenix. The violent crime rate here is 317, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is 3.9%.

#50 West Melbourne

A city in Brevard County on Florida’s Space Coast, West Melbourne is the fastest-growing city in the county. West Melbourne has 18,300 residents and is served by the Brevard County School District. It is also a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 322.4 and the chance of being affected by property crime just 2.9%.

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6

50 Safest Cities in Texas 2016

Texas

While you don’t want to mess with Texas, there are plenty of people who’d like to live there.  Both the second most populous and the second largest state in the U.S., The Lone Star State provides its 27.5 million residents with a high quality of life and a diverse landscape.

Our figures are based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. The rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 406 for violent crime and 3,019 for property crimes.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.  If you’re looking to live a carefree life in this great state, living in one of these cities may be a wise choice.

Related: Check Out Our Comprehensive Texas Public Records guide.

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#1 Colleyville

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An affluent suburb of Fort Worth, just over 3 miles from the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Colleyville has a population of 22,800 residents.  This town, named after Dr. Lilburn Howard Colley, a legendary country doctor at the turn of the last century, is the safest place to live in Texas. The violent crime rate in Colleyville is 21.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime here is  just .07%.

#2 Murphy

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The city of Murphy, TX is located in Collin County between Plano and Wylie.  Just 2 miles south of the famous Southfork Ranch, Murphy promotes a country-living atmosphere with its minimum 9,000 square foot lot size for homes.  Living in this community of 17,700 residents is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 26.8 and the chance of being affected by property crime here just .06%.

#3 Flower Mound

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An unincorporated town located northwest of Dallas and adjacent to Grapevine Lake, Flower Mound has seen rapid growth in recent years and now has over 64,000 residents.  The town has tried to use a smart growth system for urban planning, and crime here isn’t a problem.  The violent crime rate in Flower Mound is 30.9, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is .08%.

#4 Southlake

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This city of 26,500 residents is located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and was named by Forbes in 2008 as one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the U.S.  Southlake is known for its superior public schools, its championship high school football team, and its safety.  The violent crime rate here is 36.2, and the chance of being affected by property crime in the city is 1.7%.

#5 Keller

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Keller is another city in the Dallas-Fort Worth area that is considered a safe choice.  Located in Tarrant County, this city of 42,900 residents is mostly residential and has an extensive system of parks, including 19 miles of hiking and biking trails.  The violent crime rate in Keller is 36.5, and your chance of being involved in a property crime here is less than 1%.

#6 Highland Village

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Highland Village is a suburb town of Dallas that sits on the western edge of Lewisville Lake.  The city has a population of 15,000 and is known for its annual hot air balloon festival and unique shopping district.  The violent crime rate here is 37.9, and the chance of being affected by a property crime is just 1.1%.

#7 Friendswood

Founded in 1895 by members of the Religious Society of Friends, the city of Friendswood has grown to include over 35,800 residents today.  Located just outside of Houston, Friendswood was named by CNNMoney as one of “America’s Best Places to Live”.  It is a safe choice as well, with a violent crime rate of 40.6 and the chance of being involved in a property crime less than 1%.

#8 University Park

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University Park is a northern suburb of Dallas that is the home to 23,000 residents.  Southern Methodist University is located here, and the town is served by the Highland Park Independent School District. This is considered a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 37.9 and the chance of being affected by property crime here at 1.8%.

#9 Allen

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An affluent city located in a northern suburb of Dallas, the city of Allen has grown to a population of over 94,000 residents.  High school sports rule in Allen, with the recent opening of a new $60 million high school stadium.  Safety is important here as well, with a violent crime rate of 61.9 and your chance of being involved in a property crime here just 1.6%.

#10 Alton

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Located n Hidalgo County in the southern part of the state, Alton is a diverse city of just 15,000 residents.  The city encompasses just 2.1 square miles of land and is considered a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 63.5 and the chance of being affected by property crime 2.3%.

#11 Wylie

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Located 20 miles northeast of central Dallas, the city of Wylie has grown to intersect the three counties of Collin, Rockwell, and Dallas in recent years.  Now with a population of over 41,400 residents, this former town built on onion crops is considered a safe place to live.  The violent crime rate here is 64.2, and you have a 1.4% chance of being involved in a property crime in Wylie.

#12 Seabrook

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This coastal town in southeastern Texas is home to 11,900 residents.  The city of Seabrook is known for its waterfront district, where fish markets, antique shops, and bed breakfasts border Galveston Bay.  This unique city is also considered a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 64.5 and a 1.6% chance of being affected by property crime.

#13 Fredericksburg

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Located in Gillespie County in central Texas, the city of Fredericksburg was founded in 1846 by German immigrants and still holds onto much of its German heritage.  There are 10,500 residents here, and the historic district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.  The violent crime rate here is 64.8, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is 2%.

#14 Coppell

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Located in the northwest corner of Dallas County, Coppell is a bedroom community of 38,600 residents.  Its proximity to the DFW International Airport has provided the town with quite a bit of growth over the years, and it is considered a safe place to live.  The violent crime rate in Coppell is 67.4, and the chance of being affected by property crime is 1.6%.

#15 Hewitt

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Located in on the outskirts of Waco in McLennan County, Hewitt is a city of 13,300 residents.  In 2015, the city was rated by MSN Money as the 20th best place to live in the U.S.  You’ll be safe here too, with a violent crime rate of 78.7 and the chance of being involved in a property crime just 1%.

#16 Frisco

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This city of 151,900 residents is located in northeast Texas, approximately 25 miles from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.  Frisco is considered a bedroom community for many professionals who commute to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and it is also a safe place to call home. The violent crime rate here is 79.5, and your chance of being affected by property crime in Frisco is 2%.

#17 Robinson

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Robinson is located in McLennan County and is considered a suburb of Waco.  This city of 10,600 residents is served by the Robinson Independent School District and has a safe record.  The violent crime rate here is 83, and you have just a 1.7% chance of being involved in a property crime in this town.

#18 West University Place

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Also called West U or West University, this city located in Harris County is a part of the Houston area and currently has a population of 14,700 residents.  The city is nicknamed “The Neighborhood City” and nearly all streets reference colleges, universities, or famous poets.  The violent crime rate here is 84.8 your chance of being affected by property crime is just 1.3%.

#19 Lake Jackson

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Located in the Houston area in Brazoria County, Lake Jackson is a city of 26,800 residents.  Dow Chemical originally developed the city in the 1940’s to house its workers, and the company remains a major employer in the area today. The crime rate in Lake Jackson is 86.1 you have a 2% chance of being affected by property crime here.

#20 Midlothian

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Located in Ellis County, just 25 miles southwest of Dallas, Midlothian is a fast-growing town of 32,400 residents.  The population in Midlothian has seen a growth rate of 142% since 2000, and the city serves as a hub for the North Texas cement industry. The violent crime rate here is 90.9, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is just 1.6%.

#21 League City

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Located in Galveston County in the Houston area, League City is a resort city that is now its county’s largest in terms of population.  This city of 83,500 residents is home to several waterside resorts and was named by Nerdwallet as the best city in Texas for people looking for jobs.  The violent crime rate here is 91.7 and residents have just a 2% chance of being affected by property crime.

#22 Little Elm

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Little Elm has been determined to be one of the fastest growing cities in Texas.  This city of 35,400 residents located in Denton County saw a 610% population increase from 2000-2010.  Little Elm has an extensive parks and recreation system, and it is a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 91.8 and the chance of being involved in a property crime less than 1%.

#23 Seagoville

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Located in Dallas County, Seagoville is a city of 14,800 residents.  The town was founded in 1876 and was a thriving rail center.  Much of Seagoville is served by the Dallas Independent School District, and this is a safe place to live.  The violent crime rate is 97.9, and your chance of being affected by property crime here is 4.1%.

#24 Portland

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A suburb of Corpus Christi, Portland is located in both Nueces and San Patricio Counties.  This city of 19,400 residents is known for its many parks and waterfront attractions.  Living here is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 98 and your chance of being affected by property crime just 3.2%.

#25 Red Oak

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Located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, in Ellis County, Red Oak is a city of 11,500 residents that is expecting explosive growth over the next few decades.  The city encompasses 7.8 square miles, and the state estimates that its population will hit 63,300 by the year 2030.  Despite its growth, living here is safe, with a violent crime rate of 98.6 and just a 2.5% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#26 The Colony

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Located in Denton County, The Colony is a city of 41,300 residents and is considered a suburb of Dallas.  The city completed its Five Star Athletic Complex in 2003 and was named “Sports Town of the United States” by Sports Illustrated the same year.  Living here is also a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 99.4 and just a 1.4% chance of being affected by property crime in The Colony.

#27 Prosper

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An affluent suburban town in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Prosper has a current population of 17,400 residents.  The town was named by D Magazine as one of the Dallas Metropolitan area’s best suburbs, and it is also a safe place to call home.  The violent crime rate in Prosper is 99.6, and your chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.9%.

#28 Hidalgo

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Located in Hidalgo County, this city of 11,100 residents is situated on the south Texas border along the Rio Grande.  Hidalgo was first settled by Spanish colonists and is now known as the home of the NBA Development League called the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. The violent crime rate here is 102.5, and your chance of being affected by property crime is just 1.6%.

#29 Gatesville

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Located in central Texas in Coryell County, Gatesville has a population of 15,700 residents.  Interestingly, this city is home to five of the eight prisons and jails for women operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.  Despite this, it remains a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 104.8 and just a 1.1% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#30 Rockwall

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A suburb of Dallas, Rockwall is the county seat of Rockwall County.  This town of 37,400 residents was established in 1854 and named after large underground rock walls found in the area.  Rockwall sits adjacent to Lake Ray Hubbard and is a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 106 and the chance of being affected by property crime just 2.1%.

#31 Sachse

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A northeastern suburb of Dallas, Sachse is located in both Collin and Dallas Counties.  This city of 20,300 residents is located just 1 mile from the President George Bush Turnpike and has been undergoing a historical revivalist movement in its commercial district.  Sachse is a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 108.6 and a less than 1% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#32 Lumberton

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Located in Hardin County and close to the city of Beaumont, Lumberton is home to 11,900 residents.  Considered a bedroom community, the Village Creek State Park is also located in the city, and this is a safe choice to make a home.  The violent crime rate here is 114.2, and your chance of being affected by a property crime is 1.8%.

#33 Farmers Branch

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Located in Dallas County, Farmers Branch is also known as “The City in a Park.”  This city of 28,600 residents is home to Dallas Christian College and is considered a safe place to live.  The violent crime rate in Farmers Branch is 118.1, and you’ll have a 3.7% chance of being involved in a property crime here.

#34 Missouri City

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Located in Fort Bend County in the Houston area, Missouri City has a current population of 67,300 residents.  The city’s history dates back to the 19th-century railroad expansion in Texas and the area now includes several upscale master-planned communities.  This is a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 121.4 and the chance of being affected by property crime here just 1.2%.

#35 Rowlett

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Considered a suburb of Dallas, Rowlett is located in both Rockwall and Dallas counties.  This upscale bedroom community has a population of 56,200 and portions of the city front Lake Ray Hubbard.  Rowlett is also a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 121.7 and a 1.7% chance of being involved in a property crime here.

#36 McAllen

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The largest city in Hidalgo County, McAllen is located at the southern tip of the state in the Rio Grande Valley. This city of 140,700 residents enjoys brisk international trade thanks to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and its proximity to the Mexican border.  This is also a safe place to live considering its relative size, with a violent crime rate of 122.3 and a 4% chance of being affected by property crime.

#37 Pflugerville

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A suburb of Austin, Pflugerville is located in Travis County and is home to 46,900 residents.  The city is slated to become home to one of the nation’s largest solar farms and has many parks and recreational facilities.  This is also a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 123.3 and a 1.6% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#38 Canyon

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The county seat of Randall County, Canyon is a city of 13,300 residents in northern Texas, near Amarillo.  The city is home to West Texas A&M University and the famous outdoor music drama, Texas.  Despite being a college town, Canyon is a safe place to make a home, with a violent crime rate of 123.4 and .07% chance of being affected by property crime.

#39 Mansfield

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Located mostly in Tarrant County, Mansfield is an affluent suburb of Dallas with 56,300 residents.  The city has been listed four times on CNNMoney’s list of “Best Places to Live” and is a safe choice. The violent crime rate here is 126.5 your chance of being involved in a property crime is 1.5%.

#40 Crowley

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Also located in Tarrant County, Crowley is a smaller city of just 12,800 residents.  Settlers first arrived in the area in the 1840’s and the town was established with the arrival of several railroad lines to the area later in the century.  Crowley remains a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 127.6 and the chance of being affected by property crime just 2.2%.

#41 Mission

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Mission is located in the tip of the state in Hidalgo County, near the city of McAllen.  This city of 80,400 residents has been known as the “Home of the Ruby Red Grapefruit” since 1921 and is also home to the Texas Citrus Exchange.  The violent crime rate in Mission is 129.1, and your chance of being involved in a property crime here is 2.9%.

#42 Pearland

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Pearland’s motto is “Where Town Meets Country”.  This city of 108,700 residents is located in the Houston area and is one of the fastest growing cities in the state.  The city is home to many master-planned communities and has its own independent school district. Living in Pearland is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 129.9 and the chance of being affected by property crime just 1.8%.

#43 Plano

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The largest Texas city on our list, Plano is located 20 miles northeast of downtown Dallas and has a population of 269,700 residents.  Plano is the 9th largest city in the state of Texas and is the corporate base for such names as Frito-Lay, J.C. Penney, Pizza Hut, and Ericsson.  The city of Plano has safety under control, with a violent crime rate of 130.7 and a 2.3% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#44 Georgetown

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Located in central Texas in Williamson County, Georgetown has a population of 47,400 residents.  The city is home to the oldest university in the state, Southwestern University, and is known for its historic Victorian architecture.  More than one-third of the town’s residents live in an age-restricted development and Georgetown is a safe place to call home. The violent crime rate here is 131.2, and the chance of being affected by property crime is just 1.8%.

#45 Sugar Land

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Located in the Houston area, in Fort Bend County, Sugar Land is an affluent city of 86,700 residents.  Sugar Land is home to several corporate headquarters, a large number of master-planned communities, and has a popular minor league baseball team.  The violent crime rate here is 131.4, and you have just a 1.8% chance of being involved in a property crime in the city.

#46 Bellaire

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Also located in the Houston area, Bellaire is in Harris County and is known as the “City of Homes.”  This mostly residential city has a population of 17,800 residents and is surrounded by the cities of West University Place and Houston.  Living in Bellaire is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 131.6 and the chance of being affected by property crime just 1.8%.

#47 Round Rock

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Located in Williamson County in the Austin area, Round Rock is a city of 109,800 residents.  The city has been named by Money magazine as one of the best American small cities in which to live and is known as the home of Dell, which is a major employer in the area.  The public education system is strong here as well, and this is a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 132.7 the chance of being involved in a property crime just 2.4%.

#48 Hutto

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Also located in the Austin area in Williamson County, Hutto is a city of just 14,600 residents.  The town is known for its mascot, the hippo. The legend behind its origins comes from an escaped circus hippo passing through town in the early 1900’s.  Legends aside, Hutto is a safe place to call home, with a violent crime rate of 134.3 just a 1.2% chance of being affected by property crime here.

#49 Weatherford

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Located west of Fort Worth, Weatherford is the county seat of Parker County, Texas.  This city of 25,200 residents is known as the “Peach Capital of Texas” and celebrates every year with its Peach Festival that is one of the most attended festivals in the state.  The violent crime rate here is 134.9, and you’ll have a 2.8% chance of being involved in a property crime in this city.

#50 Forney

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A city in Kaufman County, Forney is a part of the Dallas-Fort Worth area and is home to 14,600 residents.  The city was named by the Texas legislature as the “Antique Capital of Texas” and has its own independent school district.  The violent crime rate in Forney is 138.4 and residents have a 2.1% chance of being affected by property crime.

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8

50 Safest Cities in California 2016

California

The Golden State is the largest state in the country in terms of population.  With 39 million residents, many people dream of calling California home.  If you live here or are looking to make the move, we’ve ranked the safest towns in the state based on FBI violent crime stats and proprietary backgroundchecks.org research data. The rates are normalized per 100,000 residents with the state average being 402 for violent crime and 2,658 for property crime.  This is calculated by taking (# of crimes/population) * 100,000.
Related: Check Out Our Comprehensive California Public Records guide.
 While California may be home to eight of the nation’s 50 most populated cities, you may be better off looking at one of these locations to call home.

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#1 Hillsborough

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Known as one of the wealthiest communities in America, this town of 11,000 residents in the south San Francisco Bay area is also the safest in California and #2 on our list of “Safest American Small Towns.”  Homes in Hillsborough must be at least 2,500 square feet, so there are no apartments or condos here.  There’s almost no crime to speak of here either, with the violent crime rate being just 9 for every 100,000 residents.

#2 Los Altos

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Also in the San Francisco Bay area, Los Altos is a town of 29,000 residents at the southern tip of the peninsula.  Forbes puts this as one of the most expensive zip codes in the U.S., and it is also one of the safest in California.  The violent crime rate here is just 20.2, and you have a 1% chance of being the victim of a property crime in Los Altos.

#3 Laguna Woods

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Formerly known as Leisure World, Laguna Woods is a city that is encompassed almost entirely of a retirement community.  This community of 16,000 residents is located in Orange County, and the median age here is 77.0 years.  Laguna Woods is a pretty safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of just 24.1 and the chance of being the victim of a property crime less than 1%.

#4 Saratoga

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Another Bay Area treasure, Saratoga sits directly west of San Jose on the edge of the Silicon Valley.  This city of 30,000 residents was ranked in Bloomberg Business Week as one of America’s Top 20 most-educated small towns.  It is also quite safe, with a violent crime rate of just 29.3 and the chances of being affected by property crime well under 1%.

#5 Lincoln

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Lincoln is located in the northern Sacramento metropolitan area and, what was once a quiet small town has seen rapid growth in recent years.  This town of 45,000 residents saw growth of over 282% between 2000-2010, making it one of the fastest growing small towns in America. Despite the growth, it remains a safe place to call home with a violent crime rate of 31.5 and the chances of being affected by property crime just 1.14%.

#6 Sierra Madre

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Located in Los Angeles County, in the foothills of the San Gabriel Valley, Sierra Madre is a small town of just 11,000 residents with a rich history and a strong sense of community.  Living in Sierra Madre provides a safe existence, with a violent crime rate of 36 and just a 1% chance of being the victim of a property crime.

#7 Moraga

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The town of Moraga is located in Contra Costa County in the San Francisco Bay area and is the combination of the former communities of Rheem, Rheem Valley, and Moraga Town.   This quaint town located in a valley is home to 16,000 residents who enjoy the surrounding hills, biking trails, and hiking paths.  Moraga is also very safe, with a violent crime rate of 36.6 and less than a 1% chance of property crime.

#8 Danville

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Another Contra Costa County town, Danville has a population of 42,000 residents and is considered one of the wealthiest suburbs of San Francisco and Oakland.  Danville also has popular hiking and biking trails, the Iron Horse Regional Trail being most notable.  Living in Danville is a safe bet with a 37.1 violent crime rate and the chance of being affected by property crime less than 1%.

#9 Orinda

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Living in Contra Costa County is probably a good choice as Orinda is another town in the top 10.  The 17,000 residents of Orinda enjoy proximity to Berkeley, Oakland, and San Francisco, as well as many parks and trails in its hills.   The violent crime rate here is just 38.7 and, if you live here, you’ll have just a 1.1% of being involved in a property crime.

#10 Ripon

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Known as “The Jewel of the Valley,” Ripon is a city located in central California in the San Joaquin Valley.  This is an agriculture-based community that is known for its almond production.  If you like wide open spaces and a safe environment, Ripon may be a good choice.  The violent crime rate here is low at 40.9, and the chance of being affected by a property crime in Ripon is 2%.

#11 Palos Verdes Estates

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An affluent coastal community in Los Angeles County, Palos Verdes Estates has just 13,400 residents.  Known for its high-performing schools, famous surf breaks, and scenic coastline, the town is also a safe place to live.  The violent crime rate here is 43.9, and the chances of being involved in a property crime are under 1%.

#12 Imperial

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The desert city of Imperial is located just 4 miles north of El Centro and has become a popular tourist destination.  The area has sand dunes for camping and popular dune buggy activities, several famous golf courses, and an abundance of bird species.  This city of 16,000 is also a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 46.3 and the lowest property crime rate in the state, at .48%.

#13 Irvine

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Irvine, CA is one of the largest safe cities on our list.  Located in Orange County, Irvine is a planned city of 66 square miles and 250,000 residents that was chosen by CNNMoney as the fourth best place to live in the U.S. in 2008.  It continues to rank well in studies due to its quality schools, city government, industry, and low crime. The violent crime rate here is 50.6, and the chances of being affected by a property crime are just 1.5%.

#14 Rancho Santa Margarita

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Another Orange County community, Rancho Santa Margarita was just incorporated in 2000 and has a population of 47,800 residents.  The city is a combination of many master-planned neighborhoods and is considered very safe.  The violent crime rate here is 55.1, and the property crime rate is the 2nd lowest in the state at just .65%.

#15 Calabasas

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Known for its gated neighborhoods and wealthy residents, this small town in Los Angeles County is located in the Santa Monica Mountains.  There are 24,000 residents in Calabasas, where the schools are some of the highest-ranked in the state.  You’ll be pretty safe living here too, with a 55.5 violent crime rate and a 1% chance of being involved in a property crime.

#16 Foster City

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Located in the San Francisco Bay area, Foster City has a population of 30,500 and has been ranked multiple times as one of the best places to live by both Forbes and Money magazine.  It’s proximity to Silicon Valley makes it a popular choice, and it’s a safe one as well.  The violent crime rate here is 57.6, and your chance of being affected by property crime is just 1.1%.

#17 Agoura Hills

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Agoura Hills is located about 30 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles, in the eastern Conejo Valley.  The city of 20,600 residents has worked hard in recent years to get its crime rate under control, obviously with much success as it is now considered a very safe place to live.  The violent crime rate here is 58.1, and the chance of being involved in a property crime in the city is just 1.1%.

#18 La Canada-Flintridge

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La Canada Flintridge is a Los Angeles County city that sits at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains.  This town of 20,200 residents is home to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and has some of the top-ranked schools in the state.  Living here is a safe choice as well, with a violent crime rate of 58.3 and the chance of being affected by property crime in the city just 1.5%.

#19 San Ramon

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Also known as “Tree City USA,” this suburban town in Contra Costa County has a population of 74,300 residents and is headquarters to some big names such as GE, Chevron, and 24-Hour Fitness.  Despite the corporate presence, the town borders wilderness preserves on many sides and has views of the Diablo Range.  San Ramon is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 60.8 and the chances of being involved in a property crime just 1.1%.

#20 Murrieta

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This growing city in southern California has a fitting motto: “The Future of Southern California”.  Located in Riverside County, this city of 103,400 residents is one of the fastest-growing in the state.  Murrieta is considered a commuter town as residents often work in nearby San Diego, Los Angeles, or Orange County.  It remains safe, however, with a violent crime rate of 65.5 and your chance of being affected by property crime just 1.6%.

#21 Pleasanton

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Pleasanton is a city of 70,200 residents located about 25 miles east of Oakland in the San Francisco Bay area.  Pleasanton has been ranked the wealthiest middle-sized city in the country, and among the top places to live by several sources in recent years.  It is also a safe place to live, considering its size.  The violent crime rate here is 68.2, and the chance of being involved in a property crime in Pleasanton is 1.7%.

#22 Seal Beach

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Located in Orange County, Seal Beach has 24,600 residents.  Much of the city is taken up by the Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach military base, and Boeing has a significant presence here as well.  The city is also home to the second longest wooden pier in California, which is used for sightseeing and fishing.  The violent crime rate here is 68.6, and your chance of being affected by property crime is 2.2%.

#23 Laguna Niguel

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A master-planned community located in southern Orange County, Laguna Niguel is close to the Pacific Ocean and is known for its green foliage and rolling hills.  The city has a population of 65,400 residents, which has settled after explosive growth in 1980’s and 1990’s.  The violent crime rate here is 72.8, and your chances of being involved in a property crime in Laguna Niguel are just 1.1%.

#24 Eastvale

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Located in the Inland Empire region of Southern California in Riverside County, Eastvale is a city of 53,600 residents.  Once a predominantly agricultural area, Eastvale was hit hard by the housing bubble in recent years as people moved there seeking affordable housing.  As the area continues to recover, the safety of the city isn’t a question.  The violent crime rate is 74, and your chance of being involved in a property crime here is just 1.8%.

#25 Mission Viejo

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An affluent community in Orange County’s Saddleback Valley, Mission Viejo is a city of 96,000 residents.  Mission Viejo has a large lake at its center and is known for its many tree-lined neighborhoods.  It has also received a reputation as a safe place to live, with the violent crime rate at 76.4 and the chance of being affected by property crime just 1.2%.

#26 Palo Alto

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Another relatively large city on this list is Palo Alto.  Located in Santa Clara County in the San Francisco Bay area, this city of 64,400 residents is home to Stanford University, and some popular tech companies like Hewlett-Packard, Tesla Motors, and Skype.  Palo Alto’s residents are considered among the most educated in the U.S., and they are safe as well.  The violent crime rate here is 80.3, and you’ll have a 2.1% chance of being affected by property crime in this city.

#27 Clayton

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Located at the foot of Mt. Diablo State Park in Contra Costa County, Clayton is part of the East San Francisco Bay area.    There are just 10,800 residents in Clayton and it is considered a safe place to live.  The violent crime rate here is 80.5, and your chance of being involved in a property crime in Clayton is less than 1%.

#28 Yorba Linda

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A suburban city located in Orange County, Yorba Linda has a population of 65,200 residents and is approximately 37 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles.  Known as the birthplace of Richard Nixon, Yorba Linda also has a relatively new high school and low crime.  The violent crime rate here is 80.5 and your chance of being affected by property crime here just 1.2%.

#29 Rancho Palos Verdes

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Also sometimes referred to as RPV, Rancho Palos Verdes is a city in Los Angeles County that has a rich history and offers residents stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island.  The population of the city is 41,600, and the area is known for its open spaces and the Palos Verdes Hills.  The city is served by two public school districts, giving residents a choice, and it is a safe location.  The violent crime rate here is 82.7, and your chance of being involved in a property crime is 1.1%.

#30 Rocklin

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Located in Placer County, approximately 22 miles east of Sacramento, Rocklin is a former gold rush town that has a current population of 57,000.  The community is diverse, and it is also considered very safe.  The violent crime rate in Rocklin is 83.2, and your chance of being affected by property crime here is just 1.5%.

#31 Chino Hills

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Located in San Bernardino County in Southern California, Chino Hills has a population of 74,800.  The city is a part of the Chino Valley and has made such lists as Money’s “best places to live” and “America’s hottest towns.”  Adding to its desirability is the city’s relative safety.  The violent crime rate here is 83.5, and your chance of being involved in a property crime in Chino Hills is 1.2%.

#32 Mill Valley

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Located in Marin County, north of San Francisco, Mill Valley is a town of 14,300 residents that sits between the shores of Richardson Bay and the slopes of Mount Tamalpais.  Mill Valley has been inhabited for nearly 6,000 years, and the geography of the area is known for its diverse habitats and nature preserves.  Living here is a safe bet as the violent crime rate is 84.6 and chances of being involved in a property crime are just 1.2%.

#33 Lafayette

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Located in the San Francisco Bay area’s Contra Costa County, Lafayette has a population of just 24,200 residents.  This affluent city is known for its rolling hills, rich history, and excellent schools.  It is also a very safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 85.7 and the chances of being affected by property crime just 1.7%.

#34 Aliso Viejo

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Located in southern Orange County in the San Joaquin Hills, Aliso Viejo is a city of 47,800 residents.  Also, the last city in Orange County to be incorporated, it is bordered by Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, and Laguna Niguel.  The city is served by the Capistrano Unified School District and is considered a safe place to live.  The violent crime rate here is 87.8, and the chance of being involved in a property crime is well under 1%.

#35 Belmont

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Located in San Mateo County on the San Francisco Peninsula, Belmont is a city of just 25,800 residents.  The town is home to two Distinguished California Schools and to the high-tech company, Oracle.  The town has been ranked by Forbes as one of “America’s Top 25 Towns to Live Well” and is a safe place to live.  The violent crime rate here is 90.9, and the chance of being affected by property crime is 1.5%.

#36 Camarillo

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Located in Ventura County in Southern California, Camarillo is a city of 66,000 residents that has shown steady population growth in recent years.  Camarillo gives residents easy access to the Ventura Freeway and provides an extensive parks and recreation system.  Crime here is well under control, with the violent crime rate at 91.7 and the chance of being involved in a property crime just 1.4%.

#37 Laguna Hills

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Laguna Hills is located in South Orange County in the western portion of the Saddleback Valley.  The city has a population of 30,800 residents, and its schools are considered high performing, with the high school being recognized on the state and national level multiple times.  Crime here is also low as the violent crime rate is 93.3 and the chance of being affected by property crime 1.9%.

#38 Temecula

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A city in southwestern Riverside County, Temecula is a part of the Inland Empire region and is bordered by the city of Murrieta to the north.  Temecula has become a tourist destination due to its wineries, old town, golf resorts, and annual festivals.  It is also a safe place to live with a violent crime rate of 93.8 and the chance of being involved in a property crime at 2.3%.

#39 Orange

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Located in Orange County, the city of Orange was founded in 1868 and has a current population of 139,400 residents.  The city is distinctive in that it has taken great pains to preserve much of the early 20th-century architecture in its Old Town District and has another city, called Villa Park, within its borders.  Orange is considered a safe place to live, with the violent crime rate at 96.6 and the chances of being affected by property crime just 2%.

#40 Cupertino

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Cupertino is an affluent city of 58,000 residents located just west of San Jose in Santa Clara County.  Also known as the home of Apple Inc.’s headquarters, the town has been ranked by Money as one of the “best places to live” as well as one of the “happiest” suburbs in the U.S.  It is also very safe, with a violent crime rate of 97 and your chance of being involved in a property crime just 1.3%.

#41 San Marino

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Located in the San Rafael Hills in Los Angeles County, San Marino is an affluent city of just 13,147 residents.  The city is known for its well-maintained streets, gardens, and expensive real estate, with the median list price of homes over $2 million.  You’ll be safe living here, though, will a violent crime rate of 97.3 and the chance of being affected by property crime 1.3%.

#42 Diamond Bar

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Located at the junction of the Orange and Pomona freeways in east Los Angeles County, Diamond Bar is a residential community of 56,700 residents.  Diamond Bar is home to Southern California’s first hydrogen fueling station and is considered a safe community.  The violent crime rate here is 97.4, and you’ll have a 1.6% chance of being involved in a property crime in Diamond Bar.

#43 Arcadia

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Arcadia is located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, approximately 13 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles in Los Angele County. This city of 57,600 residents is home to the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden and was named by Bloomberg Business as one of the “Best Places to Raise Your Kids.”  It is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 99.5 and the chance of being affected by property crime 2.4%.

#44 Canyon Lake

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Canyon Lake is one of only five gated incorporated cities in California.  Located in western Riverside County, this affluent city of 10,500 residents sits in the foothills of the Temescal Mountains and at the base of the Canyon Lake Reservoir, affording many recreational opportunities.  Crime here is low, with the violent crime rate at 100.9 and the chance of being involved in a property crime just 1.9%.

#45 San Anselmo

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An unincorporated town in Marin County, north of San Francisco, San Anselmo has just 12,000 residents.  The town is known for its views of Mount Tamalpais and as the former home George Lucas, who wrote the original Star Wars screenplay within its walls.  Living in San Anselmo is a safe choice, with a violent crime rate of 103.3 and the chance of being affected by property crime just 1.3%.

#46 Coronado

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Also known as Coronado Island, this is an affluent resort city in San Diego Bay that is home to 24,600 residents.  The island is connected to San Diego by the San Diego-Coronado Bridge, and the area is characterized by its beaches, resorts, and nearby Naval Air Station.  Living on Coronado is safe, with a violent crime rate of 103.4 and the chance of being involved in a property crime 2.6%.

#47 South Pasadena

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Located in Los Angeles County, South Pasadena is a city of 25,600 residents that sits adjacent to the larger city of Pasadena.  The city encompasses just 3.4 square miles of land and is the oldest city to still build its own floats for the annual Tournament of Roses Parade.  This is also a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 103.7 and the chance of being affect by property crime just 1.7%.

#48 Temple City

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Located in the west San Gabriel Valley in Los Angeles County, Temple City is a diverse community of 35,500 residents.  Temple City is both an affordable place to live, by Southern California standards, and a safe place to call home.  The violent crime rate is 105.1, and the chances of being involved in a property crime are under 1%.

#49 Pacifica

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Located between San Francisco and Half Moon Bay in San Mateo County, Pacifica is a coastal town of 37,200 residents.  The city boasts six miles of coastline and is known for its surfing, shopping, and dining.  It is also a safe place to make a home, with a violent crime rate of 110.4 and the chance of being affected by property crime just 1.5%.

#50 Simi Valley

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Located just 30 miles from Los Angeles in southeast Ventura County, Simi Valley is a city of 126,800 residents.  The city is considered a commuter bedroom community and is the home to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.  It is also a well-known safe city to live in for its size, with a violent crime rate of 111.3 and just a 1.5% chance of being involved in a property crime.

 

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