Recently, the United States ranked 131 out of 163 countries in the Global Peace Index, putting national security at a crucial crossroads. The safety concerns raised by this ranking have shed light on the dangers impacting American residents’ quality of life to the extent that it has even influenced families to relocate in search of a safer environment.
This study takes a closer look at the reality of the situation, painting a complex scenario of the growing concerns of nationwide security. We analyzed crime data from the FBI and National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), evaluating ten specific crime categories. By assigning weights to each type of crime, we then applied a safety score out of 100, revealing America’s 10 safest and most dangerous states.
Our findings showed that New Jersey is the safest state, with the highest and most impressive safety score of 80, mainly due to its low crime rates. On the other hand, New Mexico comes out much worse, taking the bottom spot as the most dangerous state. With a safety score amounting to a very small 40, this reflects the challenges New Mexico faces with crime and safeguarding its residents.
Delving even further into the details behind these rankings, we have provided a comprehensive look at America’s state-wide safety profile. So read on to find out where your state stands and hopefully further understand the implications for your personal safety and overall well-being.
Key Findings
- New Jersey is the safest state with a safety score of 80, featuring the lowest assault rates at 430 and sex offenses at 25.2 per 100,000 residents, alongside minimal burglary at 81 and theft rates at 608.2, securing its place at the top of this study.
- Vermont, ranking 2nd, shines bright with a safety score of 77.8 and is distinguished by a low extortion rate at 2.6 and a homicide rate at 2.3 per 100,000.
- Maine, following closely, came in 3rd with a safety score of 77.2, contributed by low homicide offense at 2.2, kidnapping/abduction at 1.8, and motor vehicle theft at 65.2 per 100,000 residents.
- New Mexico is sadly identified as the most dangerous state, scoring only 40. It struggles with the highest kidnapping at 63.9, vandalism at 1226, and sex offense rate at 129.4 per 100,000 residents.
- Colorado, the second most dangerous state with a score of 49.2, has the second-highest larceny/theft rate of 2087.6 per 100,000 residents.
- Pennsylvania is third from the bottom, marked by a score of 52.8 and challenged by the highest homicide rate of 25.2 per 100,000 residents.
- The Larceny/Theft Rate in Washington is the highest (2133.6) per 100,000, revealing it as having a major issue with property crime compared to other states.
State Ranking (Table)
10 Safest States in America
1. New Jersey
Safety Score: 80
New Jersey shines bright as America's safest state in 2024, with unparalleled low crime rates in various categories, leading with the nation's lowest assault offense rate at 430, closely followed by an impressively low homicide rate of 3.6 per 100,000. Notably, its sex offense rate also ranks lowest with a result of 25.2, priding itself on a minimal burglary and breaking & entering rate of 81 per 100,000, which further cements its place as the safest state to reside.
However, areas like extortion/blackmail, with a rate of 5.2, and larceny/theft, at 608.2 per 100,000, while not the highest, pinpoint specific concerns within its otherwise stellar safety record.
2. Vermont
Safety Score: 77.8
With its serene and beautiful environment, Vermont’s safety profile shows commitment to its citizen’s well-being, evidenced by its low crime rates. The state's homicide rate stands at a mere 2.3, and kidnapping/abduction is also low, at 11.8 per 100,000. A notable strength that even New Jersey could learn a lesson or two from, is Vermont's extortion/blackmail rate, one of the lowest at 2.6 per 100,000, reinforcing its status as a safe and peaceful state.
Despite these impressive figures though, Vermont's Larceny/Theft Rate of 1085.2 per 100,000 suggests a notable area for attention, contrasting with its peaceful reputation in many other areas.
3. Maine
Safety Score: 77.2
Maine stands out as the third safest state in America for 2024, remarkable for its incredibly low homicide offense rate of 2.2 and kidnapping/abduction rate of just 1.8 per 100,000 residents. These figures reflect Maine's commitment to protecting its citizens and highlight the state's effective law enforcement strategies and strong community bonds that help maintain this much needed safety.
Despite higher crime rates in other categories, Maine's ability to keep burglary rates at 125.4 per 100,000 people proves that the state's overall safety and security environment is promising. However, it's also crucial to note areas for improvement like larceny/theft, with a rate of 966.8 per 100,000. This indicates a concern in property crime that contrasts with its impressive record in personal safety.
4. Idaho
Safety Score: 74.1
Idaho ranks as the fourth safest state in 2024, with its lowest crime rate being robbery, at just 8.3 per 100,000 people. This exceptionally low rate reflects Idaho's effective crime prevention strategies and community safety initiatives, underscoring the state's peaceful living environment and strong community vigilance.
Despite facing challenges in other areas, such as a kidnapping/abduction rate of 11.6 per 100,000 and a larceny/theft rate of 700.1 per 100,000, Idaho's ability to maintain such a low incidence of robbery is still noteworthy. It further highlights the state's commitment to ensuring the security and well-being of its residents, while also indicating certain areas where further improvements can be made to enhance its overall safety profile.
5. West Virginia
Safety Score: 74.1
West Virginia is the fifth safest state in America, its natural beauty no doubt playing a part in creating a peaceful living environment. However, its high homicide rate of 6.8 per 100,000 somewhat overshadows some of this beauty, and points to specific challenges West Virginia faces in addressing violent crimes compared to its overall safety ranking.
The state's exceptionally low extortion/blackmail rate of 0.8 per 100,000 does set an impressive standard though, even as it navigates challenges in violence-related offenses. With efforts focused on reducing violent crimes, West Virginia is committed to enhancing its overall security and maintaining its position as a safe state for its residents.
6. New York
Safety Score: 73.9
The dynamic safety profile of the Big Apple is shaped by its urban vibrancy. With an Assault Offense Rate of 923.7, and a Larceny/Theft Rate of 1062.8, alongside a notable Kidnapping/Abduction Rate of 15.3 per 100,000, New York's safety profile reveals areas that require immediate attention, contrasting with its overall high safety score of 73.9.
This statistic highlights New York's specific challenge in curbing robbery incidents, an area that requires targeted interventions despite the state's overall strong safety standing. With a comprehensive and diligent approach to reducing such crimes, New York showcases its dedication to its resident’s safety, balancing its high ranking with the reality of urban crime dynamics and emphasizing the ongoing efforts to improve security across all communities.
7. Rhode Island
Safety Score: 73.9
Rhode Island, as the seventh safest state in 2024, still boasts impressive safety statistics, such as a notably low robbery rate of 25.4 and homicide offense rate of 3.7 per 100,000 and a commendable effort in maintaining low rates in other major crime categories. These achievements highlight the state's effectiveness in crime prevention and community safety initiatives, making it a beacon of national security.
Despite these successes, Rhode Island does face a particular challenge, with the highest extortion/blackmail rate among the top ten safest states, at 5.9 per 100,000. This specific area, while a concern, doesn’t undermine the state's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.
8. Massachusetts
Safety Score: 73.8
As the 8th safest state in America, Massachusetts earned a safety score of 73.8, illustrating its strong stance on public safety. The state has achieved particularly low rates of homicide at 2.2 per 100,000 people, indicating effective measures in combating serious crimes and ensuring the safety of its residents. Additionally, Massachusetts has worked diligently to maintain a relatively low robbery rate of 37.7 per 100,000, further emphasizing its commitment to creating a secure environment.
However, the state faces a major challenge with its extortion/blackmail rate, sadly the highest among the top ten safest states, at 8.8 per 100,000. While this figure points to a specific area for improvement, it also highlights Massachusetts' dedication to addressing and reducing all forms of crime.
9. Maryland
Safety Score: 73.1
Maryland's diversity, from urban areas to rural, is mirrored in its crime statistics, earning a total safety score of 73.1. A noteworthy achievement is its relatively low kidnapping/abduction rate of 2.1 per 100,000, illustrating a proactive approach to protecting its citizens from serious harm.
Despite this, Maryland grapples with a higher robbery rate of 58.6 per 100,000, pointing to areas where law enforcement can focus their improvement efforts. Nevertheless, Maryland's dedication to reducing crime rates and enhancing safety remains evident as it continues to evolve its effective safety measures.
10. Connecticut
Safety Score: 72.8
Connecticut presents an admirable score as the 10th safest state, with its efforts reflected in its low crime rates. Known for its scenic towns and cities, the state contends with a significant motor vehicle theft challenge. Despite this, the state boasts a commendable low homicide rate of 4.6 per 100,000, underscoring effective crime prevention and response systems.
However, Connecticut faces challenges, notably in larceny/theft, with a rate of 1164.2 per 100,000, the highest among the top ten, indicating a specific area for heightened focus. Despite such hurdles, Connecticut's overall safety profile and its efforts to tackle various crime fronts highlight its ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving the safety of its communities.
10 Most Dangerous States in America
1. New Mexico
Safety Score: 40
Unfortunately leading as the state with the highest concern of crime-related dangers, New Mexico presents a challenging landscape with the highest assault offense rate of 1979.7 per 100,000. The state's relatively higher rates also extend to homicide at 15 per 100,000 and motor vehicle theft at 569.1 per 100,000, highlighting the urgency for comprehensive crime reduction strategies.
The state's Kidnapping/Abduction Rate of 63.9 per 100,000 is also particularly distressing for residents, underscoring the need for immediate and sustained safety interventions that can’t be ignored for much longer.
2. Colorado
Safety Score: 49.2
An Assault Offense Rate of 1053.1 per 100,000 and a Homicide Offense Rate of 7.5 per 100,000 raises many concerns for Colorado residents. The state faces its own challenges, marked by a high motor vehicle theft rate of 708.4 per 100,000 and a Larceny/Theft Rate of 2087.6 per 100,000.
Despite these concerns, the beauty of its landscapes contrasts starkly with the need to address issues like extortion/blackmail, which stands at 15.4 per 100,000, the highest among all the states listed here.
3. Pennsylvania
Safety Score: 52.8
Pennsylvania, with its rich history and diverse communities, has a notably high homicide rate of 25.2 per 100,000, sadly the highest among these states, demanding immediate attention to ensure the safety of its population.
Additionally, the state's Robbery Rate of 178.8 per 100,000 is a critical issue affecting urban and rural communities alike. Strengthening safety initiatives and community policing could significantly impact residents' lives for the better and reduce these worrying rates.
4. Nevada
Safety Score: 54.2
Known for its entertainment and leisure activities, Nevada sadly has crime rates that necessitate attention, particularly in assault offenses of 1970.8 per 100,000 and sex offenses of 128.3 per 100,000. The state's Homicide Offense Rate of 7.8 per 100,000 and a high Motor Vehicle Theft Rate of 437.8 per 100,000 hugely impact residents' well-being and quality of life.
Addressing the Kidnapping/Abduction Rate of 28.7 per 100,000 and enhancing measures against property crimes are essential steps towards a safer community environment in the state of Nevada.
5. Tennessee
Safety Score: 56.3
Tennessee's rich musical heritage and vibrant culture are sadly overshadowed by its high crime rates. An Assault Offense Rate of 1978.3 per 100,000 and a Homicide Offense Rate of 10.9 per 100,000 highlight the many issues the state faces with violent crimes.
For residents, the Kidnapping/Abduction Rate of 30.8 per 100,000 and a Larceny/Theft Rate of 1620.2 per 100,000 represent urgent areas for community and law enforcement action to rebuild a sense of safety and protection.
6. Arkansas
Safety Score: 56.7
Arkansas has the unique challenge of combating high crime rates with such a low safety score. Its natural beauty faces significant safety challenges, highlighted by an assault offense rate of 2137 per 100,000, alongside a Homicide Offense Rate of 11.6 per 100,000.
The state's lower extortion/blackmail rate suggests specific areas where Arkansas performs better, but overall, the focus on crime reduction remains a priority to keep its resident’s safe.
7. Oklahoma
Safety Score: 57.1
Oklahoma's diverse landscapes include urban and rural areas, where the crime rates, including a burglary rate of 516.2 per 100,000, reflect the need for targeted safety improvements. It also indicates a pressing need for addressing its crime rate, with an Assault Offense Rate of 1421.8 per 100,000 and a Homicide Offense Rate of 8.7 per 100,000. These statistics alone show the state confronts serious safety issues on a yearly basis.
Due to this, the state's approach to reducing crime focuses on a broad spectrum of offenses and highlights many hurdles ahead.
8. Washington
Safety Score: 59.6
Washington state, known for its tech industry and natural beauty, surprisingly contrasts with its efforts to become a safer place. The state sadly has a larceny/theft rate of 2133.6 per 100,000, among the highest on this list, indicating the need for continued focus on crime prevention.
Its Kidnapping/Abduction Rate of 16.3 per 100,000 indicates another area in much need of targeted interventions. These statistics underscore the importance of community-based safety programs and proactive law enforcement measures, which Washington cannot ignore any longer if they want to keep their good reputation.
9. South Carolina
Safety Score: 59.8
South Carolina's charm is dimmed by serious safety concerns, with a high assault offense rate of 1715.2 per 100,000, with a notable Homicide Offense Rate of 11.8 per 100,000.
Its Kidnapping/Abduction Rate of 20.2 per 100,000 and a Larceny/Theft Rate of 1822.8 per 100,000 indicate areas needing immediate targeted interventions. For residents, these statistics underscore the importance of community-based safety programs and proactive law enforcement measures to create a safer living environment.
10. Louisiana
Safety Score: 59.9
Louisiana's vibrant culture and culinary excellence are disappointingly countered by its higher crime rates, such as a homicide rate of 14.4 per 100,000. The state's commitment to enhancing public safety is evident, however, with the Kidnapping/Abduction Rate being at 19 per 100,000, this further concerns its residents. Coupled with a Larceny/Theft Rate of 1646.9 per 100,000, this shows that efforts to address these high rates are crucial for improving the overall sense of safety and community well-being.
Methodology
This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of crime data from the FBI and the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) for all 50 states. The analysis focused on 10 specific crime features, including murder, sex offense, larceny, and others, to assess safety in each state.
Data Normalization:
Crime rates were calculated per 100,000 people for each type of incident by dividing the incident count by the corresponding population covered. All the crime features were then normalized, assigning a score out of 100 to each area, allowing for fair comparisons.
Individual feature scores were combined with appropriate weights, reflecting their relative importance in the assessment. This process resulted in a composite score for each state, offering a comprehensive evaluation of the area's safety. For better readability and understanding, the final composite scores were further normalized within a range of 40 to 80.
Based on the final safety score, the states were ranked, providing insights into the safety landscape across the states.
- Data Collection: Our primary data sources are reputable databases and crime statistics reports released by the FBI's Crime Data Explorer. This ensured that our findings were based on reliable and accurate information.
- Categories of Offense: We examined the frequency of various types of offenses, including assault offenses, homicide, kidnapping/abduction, sex offenses, burglary/breaking & entering, destruction/vandalism, extortion/blackmail, larceny/theft, motor vehicle theft, and robbery.
- Rate Calculation: For each offense category, we calculated rates per 100,000 people to adjust for population size. This normalization allowed for a more accurate comparison among states with differing population sizes.
- Ranking Criteria: Safety scores were assigned to each state based on these per capita offense rates. Lower offense rates led to higher safety scores. The ranks were allocated from the highest safety score to the lowest, resulting in rankings from 1 to 50, with 1 being the safest state and 50 being the least safe.
- Interpretation and Analysis: We then analyzed the data to identify key trends, patterns, and outliers. This led to our key findings, identifying specific characteristics and patterns associated with the safest and least safe states.
- The actual scores are padded to 40-80 to get more realistic-looking scores.
- Weights for each feature are as below and are taken to be a bit more subjective:
| Feature | Weight | |
| 1 | Assault | -0.1 |
| 2 | Homicide | -0.2 |
| 3 | Kidnapping/Abduction | -0.1 |
| 4 | Sex Offense | -0.15 |
| 5 | Burglary/ Breaking & Entering | -0.05 |
| 6 | Destruction/Vandalism | -0.05 |
| 7 | Extortion/Blackmail | -0.1 |
| 8 | Larceny/Theft | -0.05 |
| 9 | Motor Vehicle Theft | -0.1 |
| 10 | Robbery | -0.1 |
