Not all towns are created equal when it comes to safety and security. To determine which small towns offer the safest environment for potential movers and real estate investors, Vivint analyzed property crime data from 2023, focusing on larceny, motor vehicle theft, and robbery.
This study identified the safest small towns in the U.S.—with populations between 50,000 and 100,000—based on property crimes reported to the FBI. Pensacola and Sammamish, Washington, had the fewest robberies per 10,000 residents.
Other findings:
- Columbus, Indiana; Wheaton, Illinois; and Saratoga Springs, Utah, are the safest small towns.
- San Leandro, California; Federal Way, Washington; and Alameda, California, had the highest rates of property crime.
- Great Falls, Montana (404) and Joplin, Missouri (389) had the most larcenies per 10,000 residents.
Columbus achieved an exceptional record with zero reported larcenies (the unlawful taking of personal property) and motor vehicle thefts. Wheaton followed next, with a property crime rate of 38.5 larcenies, 0.9 motor vehicle thefts, and 0.2 robberies (taking personal property through force/threat of force) per 10,000 residents.
Pensacola’s overall rating was #64.
See report.