The 12 Safest Big Cities in the US Where You Can Walk at Night Without a Worry

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Although news headlines can seem scary, not all US cities are crime-ridden. But don’t worry, you can put your guard down and enjoy yourself in the 12 safest big cities in the United States.

Big cities naturally come with their fair share of stresses, from traffic and noise pollution to, unfortunately, crime. However, not all big cities share the same dangers and some US cities are actually quite safe.

Moneygeek recently analyzed FBI crime statistics for cities with a population of over 300k and came up with some interesting results. According to the report, below are the 12 safest big cities in the US.

Irvine, California

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According to the report, Irvine is the safest big city in the US, with an average per capita crime cost of $364. The city is located in Orange County, just south of Los Angeles.

With a highly trained police force, great schools, and safe neighborhoods, the city keeps crime low. The city also has one of the higher income brackets in California. With such low poverty, its residents have plenty of opportunities.

Irvine is a popular city for hiking, golfing, and business. It’s also close to Orange County’s famous beaches and, of course, Disney Land Resort.

Read also: America’s Safest Urban Areas

Henderson, Nevada

Henderson is a big city located just outside of Las Vegas. On average, its residents spend $673 on crime per capita, making it the second safest big city in the country.

The city is primarily residential, with great schools and a well-funded police force. It’s also one of the wealthiest cities in the state.

For anyone visiting Las Vegas or exploring the surrounding nature, Henderson makes the perfect place to stay, especially if you’re concerned with safety.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach is the third safest city in the US. On average, the cost of crime per capita is $773. The city has good schools, safe neighborhoods, and access to high-paying jobs.

The coastal city is mostly residential, with plenty of recreational opportunities such as golf and hiking. It becomes a major tourist hotspot for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts during the summer.

You’ll find world-class beaches and resorts, plus plenty of exciting places to visit, such as the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and Virginia Aquarium. On top of all its attractions, it’s close to Norfolk, which has renowned museums and historical sights worth visiting.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu is the fourth safest big city in the country, with an average crime cost per capita of $832. The Hawaiian capital city is bustling with fun and activities, plus a booming food scene worth experiencing.

Because of its safe neighborhoods and access to good schools and community, it is one of the safest cities in the nation. You can visit and let the island vibes take over and go straight into vacation mode.

You’ll have access to famous beaches such as Waikiki and incredible hiking trails. The city is also the perfect home base for exploring the rest of Oahu.

El Paso, Texas

El Paso is a big city full of history and culture. It’s also the fifth safest city in the country, with an average crime cost per capita of $983.

You’ll get to enjoy the Texas culture without having to worry about safety. Even downtown is relatively safe at night.

The city has world-famous art galleries, such as the El Paso Museum of Art, and some of the best Mexican food in the country. So, if you want a culturally rich big-city experience while staying safe, El Paso should be on your list.

San Diego, California

San Diego has a crime cost per capita of $1,206, making it the sixth safest big city in the US. This coastal city is famous for its incredible beaches, theme parks, and famous zoo.

With great schools, safe neighborhoods, and access to high-paying jobs, San Diego gives its residents one of the highest standards of quality of life in America.

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If you want to enjoy SeaWorld or explore the San Diego Zoo, San Diego should be at the top of your list. Even its downtown Gas Lamp District is safe at night so that you can relax in the city.

Mesa, Arizona

Extraordinary Desert Landscapes to Explore Monument Valley, USA — © elena_suvorova / Adobe Stock

Mesa is a vast city located just east of Phoenix. Its average crime cost per capita is $1,404, putting it in seventh place.

The city is mostly residential, with large open neighborhoods and great schools. There are plenty of jobs and lots to do, including hiking, parks, and community centers.

Nearby is Phoenix, one of the most exciting cities in the US. If you want ultimate safety while visiting Phoenix, consider staying in Mesa.

San Jose, California

San Jose is located just south of San Francisco. Its crime cost per capita is $1,472, putting it in eighth place among the safest cities in the US.

The city is the hub of the global tech industry and has endless high-paying jobs. The city enjoys safe neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and amazing natural wonders nearby.

If you want a safe home base to explore the Bay Area, consider staying in San Jose. It also has many exciting sights and attractions, so you may feel perfectly content staying put.

Riverside, California

Riverside is a city just east of Los Angeles. Its average crime cost per capita is $1,580, which puts it at number nine on our list.

The city was once one of the centers of the state’s citrus industry but now has expanded to include tech and other high-paying industries. This has exploded the population and increased its safety score.

You’ll be close to LA and outdoor attractions like the San Bernardino Mountains. You also won’t be far from award-winning restaurants and cultural attractions that are not worth missing. So, if you want the perfect place to rest between trips to LA or exploring the desert, this city may be the perfect place.

Arlington, Texas

Arlington has a crime cost of around $1,593, which puts it at number ten on our list. The city sits between the two giant cities of Dallas and Fort Worth.

It enjoys excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and access to high-paying jobs. There are also lots of activities for residents and visitors.

Visit the Six Flags Over Texas theme park or check out a rodeo. Downtown Arlington is also home to AT&T Stadium, the home of the famous Dallas Cowboys football team.

Anaheim, California

Anaheim is another safe city in Orange County. Its crime cost is roughly $1,707, putting it at number 11 on the list. The city is home to Disneyland Resort and the famous Angel Stadium.

Residents enjoy safe neighborhoods, well-funded schools, and many job opportunities in the city and nearby. The city is also close to some of Southern California’s best natural attractions, such as hiking.

If you want a safe destination with plenty of attractions, you’ll love Anaheim. It’s also a great home base for exploring other destinations near LA.

New York, New York

Things To Do in the US_Explore Central Park, New York City — © Touch / Adobe Stock

New York is 12th on our list, with a crime cost of $1,722. Although it had the reputation of being a haven for crime several decades ago, the Big Apple is now one of the safest cities in the nation.

You can visit many neighborhoods without worrying about becoming a victim of crime. It enjoys a high standard of living, plenty of jobs, and a great sense of community.

Even at night, you can stay safe and secure. However, always make sure to know where you are and avoid unfamiliar alleyways that are poorly lit. Oh, and just don’t imitate the New York accent; even the sweetest New Yorkers will be upset.