The Ultimate List of Safest Cities in Colorado

Colorado is a beautiful place with vibrant cities and tons of outdoor activities. It's one of the fastest-growing states in America, with over 5 million residents. With growth comes the question: Are Colorado’s cities safe to live in? In this article, we will rank the top 10 safest cities in Colorado for 2024.

To find what are the safest cities in Colorado for security and quality of life we’ll look at crime data, population stats, and local amenities. Read on for the inside scoop on the safest cities in Colorado 2024, whether you’re considering a move or just curious.

Colorado Safety Overview

Colorado has a crime rate that is lower than average overall in comparison to the rest of the United States. Colorado’s violent crime rate of 368 offenses per 100,000 people is 379 offenses per 100,000 people nationwide. And in Colorado, property crime is lower at 2,357 offenses per 100,000 people compared to 2,487 per 100,000 across the U.S.

While crime rates are low statewide, safety levels can vary between cities and neighborhoods. Rural areas tend to have lower crime rates than bigger cities that attract more residents.

Top 10 Safest Places to Live in Colorado

Here are the top ten safest cities in Colorado based on the most recent FBI crime report data. We factored in rates of violent crime (murder, assault, rape) and property crime (burglary, theft, vehicle theft). We also considered population size and access to amenities. The safest city in Colorado offers excellent security as well as quality of life for residents.

1. Lone Tree

This suburb of Denver in Douglas County tops our list as the safest place in Colorado. Lone Tree has very low rates of both violent crime and property crime, likely thanks to its affluent population and location away from central Denver. The city has great amenities like parks, trails, shopping, and dining. Housing consists of newer homes and apartments. With just 14,000 residents, Lone Tree provides safety without feeling overcrowded.

2. Louisville

Located along U.S. 36 between Denver and Boulder, Louisville is a small, affluent suburban community. Low crime rates, coupled with great schools and parks, make it very family-friendly. The historic downtown has local shops and eateries. Louisville is close to jobs and activities in Denver and Boulder but secluded enough to avoid big-city crime.

3. Windsor

Windsor is situated along the Cache la Poudre River on Colorado’s northern Front Range. With around 20,000 residents, it provides small-town charm near the larger city of Fort Collins. The violent crime rate in Windsor is extremely low, and property crime rates are also well below state and national averages. Parks and trails allow plenty of healthy outdoor recreation.

4. Greenwood Village

Within the Denver metro region, Greenwood Village offers suburban living with impressive safety, but violent and property crime rates are among the lowest in the state. High household incomes contribute to its safety and upscale shopping and dining. It is one of the safest cities in Colorado near Denver.

5. Cherry Hills Village

Cherry Hills Village is an affluent community just south of Denver. It boasts sprawling parks and mountain views. With violent crime virtually nonexistent, residents enjoy peace of mind and security. Public services like police and schools help maintain a high standard of living. Cherry Hills Landing provides upscale retail shopping and dining options.

6. Superior

Just 12 miles from downtown Boulder, Superior is located in Boulder County and has around 13,000 residents. It combines a small-town feel with access to big-city attractions. Superior has the lowest violent crime rate of all cities on our list. Property crime is also minimal. With trails, parks, and open space, it’s great for outdoor lovers. The historic downtown has local shops and restaurants.

7. Firestone

In northern Colorado’s Weld County, Firestone offers a friendly small-town environment. Its violent and property crime rates are a fraction of the national average. Parks and recreation centers provide plenty of family activities. New neighborhoods are being constructed as Firestone grows. It’s near major employment centers while retaining its peaceful atmosphere.

8. Castle Pines

Castle Pines is a master-planned community in Douglas County, south of the Denver metro area. It combines natural beauty with a strong sense of community. Violent crime is virtually nonexistent, while property crime rates are significantly lower than statewide figures. Hiking trails connect neighborhoods to open spaces. The charming village square has boutiques, coffee shops, and eateries.

9. Wellington

A small agricultural town north of Fort Collins, Wellington impresses with its low crime rates. The police department helps make it one of the safest Northern Colorado communities. Wellington has lots of community events, plus outdoor recreation at nearby lakes and trails. It provides a secure small-town lifestyle while being close to Fort Collins’ amenities.

10. Castle Rock

Located along the Front Range between Denver and Colorado Springs, Castle Rock balances small-town charm with growth and amenities. Its crime rates are well below state and national levels. Excellent schools, parks, trails, and open spaces provide plenty of community and outdoor recreation opportunities. Castle Rock is large enough to have varied dining and shopping while maintaining its safe atmosphere.

How We Created the Ranking of Safest Colorado Cities

To create our ranking of the top 10 safest towns in Colorado, we relied on the most recent FBI Uniform Crime Reporting statistics. This comprehensive data tracks incidents of violent crime (homicide, rape, robbery, assault) and property crime (burglary, theft, vehicle theft, arson). Crime rates were calculated per 1,000 residents to evenly compare cities of varying population sizes.

We then narrowed down the safest cities based on these factors:

• Low rates of both violent and property crime compared to statewide averages
• Small to mid-sized populations under 50,000 residents
• Proximity to amenities like shopping, dining, entertainment, parks, and trails
• Reputation as an affluent, family-friendly community

How to Find Safest Cities to Live in Colorado

If you’re looking for the safest cities to live in Colorado, here are tips for evaluating potential cities and neighborhoods:

• Check FBI crime statistics for any city you’re considering. Compare violent and property crime rates against state and national averages.
• Look at crime maps to view where incidents are concentrated within a city. Weigh the safety of individual neighborhoods.
• Search online reviews and rankings for real estate agents' and residents’ opinions about safety.
• Tour the potential safest Colorado cities during the day and at night to gauge your comfort level. Pay attention to lighting, visibility, and street layouts.
• Consider proximity to police and fire stations. Response times tend to be quicker in more densely populated areas.

Tips for Staying Secure in Colorado Cities

While Colorado cities rank very safe compared to the rest of the country, it always helps to take precautions and be prepared. Here are some tips for staying secure as a resident of Colorado:

Install Security Cameras

Outdoor security cameras help deter criminals and record footage if an incident occurs. Choose cameras with night vision, motion activation, and remote access via your smartphone. Place cameras covering entry points like driveways and doorways.

For outdoor security, a battery-powered outdoor camera is a great option. Its wire-free design makes it ideal for beginners. Check out the new Reolink Altas PT Ultra—a 4K battery camera that offers continuous recording and full-color night vision.

Use Alarm Systems

A home security system with door and window sensors provides 24/7 monitoring and alerts police if a break-in occurs. Install glass break detectors, motion detectors inside, and environmental sensors to detect fires or carbon monoxide. Arm your system whenever leaving home.

Recognize Risks

Pay attention in neighborhoods and parks, especially at night. Avoid walking alone and stick to well-lit streets. Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles and hide signs of empty homes when traveling.

Prepare for Emergency

Natural disasters also threaten safety. Create evacuation plans and assemble emergency kits for your home and car. Sign up for community warning systems regarding floods, wildfires, tornadoes, and blizzards.

Collaborate with Neighborhood

Get to know neighbors so they can look out for each other's homes. Share information about local risks. Start a neighborhood watch, share emergency contacts, and bring concerns to community meetings.

FAQs

What city in Colorado has the lowest crime rate?

Based on the most recent FBI crime statistics, Lone Tree has the lowest reported rates of both violent and property crime among Colorado cities. Its peaceful atmosphere and low population density contribute to a very secure environment.

Is Colorado a safe state to live in?

Yes, Colorado has lower violent and property crime rates compared to national averages. Certain cities are extremely safe thanks to affluent populations and dedicated police departments. However, larger cities tend to have more crime, so research specific areas.

What is the nicest city in Colorado?

Some of the nicest cities in Colorado based on amenities, income levels, and charm include Lone Tree, Louisville, Castle Pines, Cherry Hills Village, and Superior. These communities boast excellent schools, parks, shopping, dining, and recreation alongside low crime.

Conclusion

There are so many safe places to live in Colorado. Small towns, upscale suburbs, and even a few cities offer peace and safety along with amenities and charm. Before you move, just remember that crime risks do vary between neighborhoods.

Choose the communities with active police departments, engaged residents, and community programs. Use cameras and alarms as security measures that are appropriate to the local area. Colorado has secure living in beautiful surroundings, with attention to detail and preventive action.