Whether you are traveling across states for business or on vacation, safety is one of those top factors you must keep in mind for a worry-free experience.
Remember, not all states do well when it comes to providing a secure environment for visitors. So, it is best to pay extra attention to crime rates and the like when planning your travels.
Fortunately, today, you can get accurate information (sometimes, in real-time) on a whole lot of things safety-related. Search engines and social media, for instance, can feed you news with live coverage of local incidents. The FBI’s Crime Data Explorer provides local law enforcement data (both recent and historical) from across the country. And on Nuwber, you can find 118 million U.S. addresses and safety-related details about their immediate neighborhoods.
While there are always pockets of secure, traveler-friendly communities within each area, some states have done a pretty commendable job ensuring safety in most of their cities.
For anyone planning to travel this year, here are the five safest states in the U.S. based on AreaVibes’ findings.
1. New Hampshire
Topping the list of the safest U.S. states is New Hampshire.
NH is a haven for anyone into outdoor recreation. Hiking the Appalachian Trail, skiing down the Cannon Mountain, boating in Lake Winnipesaukee, and camping in Huttopia White Mountains are a few of the things you don’t want to miss. New Hampshire has also got charming towns with rich history and lots to explore (think about spring flower festivals, country stores, and maple syrup liqueur!).
What about traveler safety? The state has consistently ranked among the most secure places in America for years. The chance of experiencing crime there is just 1 in 100, and the total crime per year is 996 per 100k people (that’s less than half of the national average). Cities like Durham, Newmarket, Milford, and Londonderry, in particular, have a strong reputation for safety standards.
2. Idaho
Idaho is known as a favorite destination among travelers for year-long adventures. So, whether you’re planning a summer vacation or longing for some winter fun, this state is sure to offer memorable experiences.
And we’re not just talking about ski resorts, mountain ranges, hiking trails, wildlife, state parks, and hot springs (although Idaho has plenty of them). There are also farmers’ markets, breweries, outdoor festivals, and ghost towns to keep you busy when you travel there.
And the best part? Idaho has a relatively low population density. It’s one of the least populous in the whole of America. And fewer people generally equate to fewer safety issues. This is the case in Idaho, too. ID is ranked among the top states for personal and road safety in the U.S., and total crimes there are recorded as 1,044 for every 100k people (one of the lowest in the country).
3. Maine
To breathe in fresh air and unwind in the glory of breathtaking scenery, there’s no better place than the Pine Tree State in the northeast.
Maine’s small towns offer beaches, national parks, historic sites, museums, theatres, artisan stores, and more—something for the whole family. Then, let’s not forget the fresh produce and the farm-to-table dining experiences. Whether you love the outdoors, enjoy exploring history, or want to stuff yourself like there’s no tomorrow, you will find a variety of options in this state.
That’s not all. Maine has been repeatedly appearing on the safest state lists each year. Robberies and assaults are incredibly low there, and total violent crimes are just 103 per 100k residents compared to the national average of 364. The low population density and the family-friendly atmosphere certainly play a huge role in this.
4. Rhode Island
This tiny Ocean State is full of culture, history, and natural beauty. It has 400 miles of coastline for you to catch the sun and enjoy water sports. And its arts and entertainment scene is second to none. If that doesn’t interest you, how about savoring global flavors on the Blackstone Valley International Food Trail, taking a history tour down Benefit Street, or goat hiking at Gather Farm? (Yes, you can plan for some pretty eccentric experiences in this state!)
But that’s not the only reason to visit Rhode Island. According to crime statistics, it’s one of the safest states you can find in America. Places like Tiverton, East Providence, Westerly, Cranston, and Warwick boast a reputation for highly secure communities. Overall, Rhode Island’s violent and property crime rates (per 100k people) are recorded as 168 and 1,121 (that’s well below the U.S. averages of 364 and 1,917).
5. Massachusetts
The state of Massachusetts is not all about its urban metropolis. For those visiting on a vacation, the state offers lots of variety in terms of activities and experiences. From stunning natural landscapes and beaches to amusement parks, museums, and historical landmarks, you name it, this state’s got them all! Massachusetts also promises a blend of diverse culinary venues, including orchards, wineries, farmers’ markets, and famous diners.
And regardless of its high population density (the third-highest in the U.S.), Massachusetts is exceptionally safe. The state’s low total crime rate (1,415 per 100k people) hardly comes as a surprise when you consider its strong law enforcement resources. Massachusetts also does well in terms of road and personal safety and financial protection and has one of the top healthcare systems in the country.
To Conclude
Coincidentally (or not), some of the safest places to visit in the U.S. happen to be in the northeast region of the country. But this doesn’t mean you can’t find safe states in other parts of America. States like West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming also claim impressively low crime stats, which put them well ahead of others.
But remember, even in places with low risk, being mindful of personal security is essential when you are traveling. Always watch your belongings, especially in crowded locations. If you plan to explore the nightlife, stay clear of shady spots. Take alcohol in moderation, and never leave your drinks unattended. Importantly, familiarize yourself with the area and have emergency contact numbers at hand.
