Finding America's Top Safest Cities With The Most Affordable Living Costs

When searching for a place to settle down, combining security and financial accessibility becomes increasingly challenging. Yet across the United States, there exist roughly 15 communities that successfully merge both advantages—offering residents the peace of mind that comes from low crime alongside housing and living expenses that won’t drain savings accounts.

Based on comprehensive research analyzing crime statistics and economic data, this list reveals surprising patterns. Ohio notably dominates the rankings with seven representatives among the top safest cities to relocate to, demonstrating why the state has become attractive to budget-conscious families and individuals.

Communities Leading in Safety and Affordability

New Philadelphia, Ohio emerges as the most economical choice. With 17,563 residents, this city maintains an annual cost of living at $35,549. The typical family home values around $186,258, translating to roughly $1,101 monthly mortgage payments. Safety metrics show impressive numbers: violent crime rates sit at 0.69 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at 1.50 per 1,000.

New Ulm, Minnesota follows closely, serving 14,066 people with a marginally higher annual living cost of $36,361. Home values reach $222,693 on average, with violent crime exceptionally low at 0.29 per 1,000. The livability score climbs to 82, suggesting strong community quality.

Parma Heights, Ohio accommodates 20,616 residents at $36,575 annually. Properties average $196,742, maintaining that Ohio advantage of cost-effectiveness. Violent crime rates hover at 0.39 per 1,000.

San Elizario, Texas represents the most affordable housing option nationally, with homes valued at just $167,333 and monthly mortgages averaging $989. This community of 10,123 boasts exceptional violent crime rates at merely 0.10 per 1,000—among the nation’s lowest.

Mid-Range Options Balancing Security and Value

Yorktown, Indiana serves 11,617 residents with annual costs reaching $37,332. While home values climb to $218,330, violent crime remains controlled at 0.42 per 1,000.

Berea, Ohio adds another Ohio entry to the safest cities list, supporting 18,330 people. Annual living expenses total $37,768, with homes valued at $220,573 and a strong livability rating of 77.

Mount Vernon, Ohio continues the state’s representation with 16,802 inhabitants, annual costs of $37,928, and notably low property crime at 4.23 per 1,000.

Larger Communities Offering Security

Columbus, Indiana represents growth potential, hosting 51,104 residents. Though annual costs climb to $40,402, violent crime rates remain minimal at 0.19 per 1,000, making it one of the safest cities by proportion.

Butler, Pennsylvania serves 13,306 people with similar annual expenses of $40,446. Violent crime sits at just 0.20 per 1,000, confirming its safety credentials.

Trenton, Michigan accommodates 18,242 residents with the highest livability score among mid-tier options at 86. Annual living costs reach $41,641.

Premium Locations Among The Safest Cities

Hamilton, Ohio expands to 63,124 residents while maintaining reasonable costs at $42,726 annually. This larger community achieves violent crime rates of 0.39 per 1,000.

Orono, Maine attracts 10,699 residents with annual costs of $44,036. Despite higher home values at $295,752, violent crime remains exceptional at 0.18 per 1,000.

Brunswick, Ohio serves 35,284 people with a livability score of 78, demonstrating strong community satisfaction despite climbing to $44,251 in annual expenses.

North Ridgeville, Ohio accommodates 36,043 residents, marking another Ohio safest city, with annual living costs at $44,415 and violent crime at 0.56 per 1,000.

Edwardsville, Illinois rounds out the top 15, supporting 26,543 residents with the highest livability score of 90. Despite annual costs reaching $45,323, exceptional safety metrics—violent crime at 0.30 per 1,000—justify its inclusion among America’s top safest cities.

What Makes These Places Special

These communities share common characteristics that appeal to those prioritizing both financial prudence and personal security. The concentration of quality options in Ohio suggests regional factors contribute to the safest cities ranking favorably for residents. Across all 15 locations, violent crime rates remain substantially below national averages, while annual living costs stay relatively modest compared to major metropolitan areas.

Whether selecting from Ohio’s seven representatives or exploring options in Texas, Minnesota, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Maine, or Illinois, Americans seeking the optimal combination of affordability and safety now have data-backed choices. The methodology drawing from FBI crime statistics, Census data, and housing indices ensures these safest cities rankings reflect current conditions as of early 2025, providing reliable guidance for relocation planning.