The Ultimate List of Safest Cities in Florida

Florida is famous for the sun, sea, sand, theme parks, and retirement communities. However, crime is still present in some cities across the state, even with over 21 million residents. If you are looking for a new home and safety is your main concern, this is the best list of the safest cities in Florida. We researched the FBI's most recent crime data to find out the cities with the least violent and property crimes. Read on to discover what the safest cities in Florida are, the aspects that make for safety, and how to select a safe Florida community.

Top 10 Safest Cities in Florida

The cities below have the lowest crime rates in Florida, according to the most recent FBI Uniform Crime Reporting statistics. They offer residents peace of mind, along with excellent amenities, affordable housing, strong job markets, and a high quality of life.

1. Marco Island

With a population of 18,124, Marco Island has the lowest crime rate in the state, at just 4.97 incidents per 1,000 residents. This island city is located off Florida's Gulf Coast and is known for its beaches, nature preserves, and upscale resorts. It is one of the safest cities to live in Florida.

2. Parkland

Parkland is located in Broward County and has 35,244 residents and a low crime rate of 5.62 per 1,000. Family-friendly neighborhoods, highly ranked schools, and proximity to major employers make Parkland an ideal community.

3. Weston

Home to 71,946 people, Weston in Broward County has a crime rate of only 5.49 per 1,000. Often ranked one of Florida's best places to live, Weston features amenities like golf courses, shopping, dining, and parks. It is the safest city in Florida.

4. Winter Springs

This city of 37,854, located north of Orlando, has just 7.79 crimes per 1,000 people. Natural beauty and recreation, such as greenways and trails, add to Winter Springs' appeal.

5. Oviedo

Oviedo is east of Orlando and has 42,684 residents. Its crime rate is 8.15 per 1,000, helped by active neighborhood watch programs and community policing.

6. Satellite Beach

This Atlantic coastal town of 11,219 has a crime rate of 7.13 per 1,000 residents. Miles of beaches, waterfront parks, and a historic downtown neighborhood boost livability.

7. Port St. Lucie

With 199,433 residents, Port St. Lucie in St. Lucie County has a relatively low crime rate of 9.97 per 1,000 people. Port St. Lucie features beautiful parks and recreational facilities for residents to enjoy.

8. North Palm Beach

North Palm Beach is located in Palm Beach County and has 13,273 residents. Thanks to involved neighborhood organizations and community policing efforts, it sees only 9.12 crimes for every 1,000 citizens.

9. Cooper City

Cooper City lies in Broward County with 36,890 residents. Despite its location near major cities, Cooper City keeps crime low at 10.46 incidents per 1,000 through neighborhood watches and community engagement.

10. Sebastian

The eastern Florida city of Sebastian has 26,232 residents and a crime rate 12.05 per 1,000. Sebastian's scenic riverfront location, parks, and preserved natural areas enhance community life.

10 Most Dangerous Cities in Florida

While crime rates are low overall in Florida compared to other states, some cities see higher rates of violent and property crimes as compared to the safest town in Florida. Residents in these cities are at greater crime risk than other parts of Florida.

1. Lake City

With 12,500 residents, Lake City in Columbia County sees high rates of violent crime compared to other Florida cities. The violent crime rate is 1,547 incidents per 100,000 residents.

2. Belle Glade

Located near Lake Okeechobee, Belle Glade has 16,698 residents and a high crime rate of 3,701 per 100,000. Violence frequently stems from gang activity and poverty in the area.

3. Riviera Beach

Riviera Beach in Palm Beach County has approximately 35,000 residents. Violent crime rates are elevated, including a murder rate that is seven times the national average.

4. Cocoa

In Brevard County along Florida's Space Coast, Cocoa has around 19,000 residents. The violent crime rate of 1,108 per 100,000 is considered high for the state.

5. Florida City

With 12,000 residents, Florida City southwest of Miami sees extremely high crime. Residents have a 1 in 38 chance of being the victim of a violent crime.

6. Miami Beach

While an attractive tourist destination, Miami Beach also battles violent crime. The rate is 1,059 violent crimes for every 100,000 residents.

7. Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach in Volusia County is known for racing and beaches. But its violent crime rate of 1,006 per 100,000 residents is concerning.

8. Lake Worth Beach

Lake Worth Beach in Palm Beach County has an elevated violent crime rate of 996 per 100,000 despite recent community initiatives to reduce crime.

9. Homestead

Located south of Miami, Homestead has around 80,000 residents and a high total crime rate of 3,211 per 100,000 people.

10. Lauderhill

With 72,000 residents, Lauderhill in Broward County experiences 878 violent crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Authorities continue efforts to lower crime rates.

How We Measure City's Safety in Florida

We examined the most recent FBI Uniform Crime Reporting statistics to rank the safest cities in Florida. This data helps measure safety based on the following:

• Violent crime rate - Murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault per 100,000 residents
• Property crime rate - Burglary, theft, vehicle theft per 100,000 residents
• Total crime rate - Combined violent and property crimes per 100,000 people

Cities with lower rates are considered safer than cities with higher crime rates. Comparing crime data to state and national averages also provides a perspective on safety in different Florida cities.

Top Security Measures Floridians Rely On

Residents across Florida take proactive measures to protect their homes, families, and property. Common security steps include:

Installing Security Cameras

Outdoor security cameras help deter criminals and capture footage that can assist police investigations. Indoor cameras are also useful for monitoring and providing evidence if someone breaks into your home.

The new Reolink Altas PT Ultra is an excellent choice. This battery-powered security camera is completely wire-free, making it easy for beginners to set up. Its 20,000 mAh battery can last up to 16 months on a single charge, and you can switch to continuous recording mode for uninterrupted surveillance.

Using Alarm Systems

Monitored alarm systems guard against intrusions and alert authorities to crime in progress. Some systems also integrate fire alarms and medical alert capabilities. Choose different types of alarms and create your unique system.

Securing Doors and Windows

Reinforced doors, deadbolt locks, window bars, and jamming devices help deny entry by criminals. Simply keeping doors and windows locked also reduces opportunities for crime.

Owning a Dog

Dogs act as an alert system and deterrent to would-be intruders. Large breeds trained as guard dogs provide added protection for homes and families.

Joining a Neighborhood Watch

This program organizes residents to look out for suspicious activity. Collaboration helps prevent crime and keeps neighborhoods safer.

Installing Exterior Lighting

Outdoor lighting deters criminals who rely on darkness. Motion sensor lights and increased luminance make homes less attractive for illegal entry attempts.

How to Find Safest Places to Live in Florida

If choosing a safe neighborhood is your priority, keep these tips in mind when searching for Florida cities:

• Research crime rate statistics for cities and neighborhoods under consideration. Lower crime rates indicate safer areas.
• Seek cities with active community policing and neighborhood watch programs. Community involvement helps deter crime.
• Consider small cities and towns outside major metro areas. These typically have lower crime rates than large urban cities.
• Look for visible security measures like cameras, lighting, and fencing. These demonstrate investment in crime prevention.
• Visit potential neighborhoods during the day and at night. Gauge your comfort level and observe activity on the streets.
• Talk to locals about their experiences and perspectives on area crime. Their insights will supplement crime data.
• Check sex offender registries and resources like Family Watchdog to identify high-risk locations. Avoid moving near registered offenders.

Bonus List: Safest Cities in Florida from Hurricanes

Florida's coastal cities are also concerned with minimizing hurricane risk and storm damage. Some safer choices include:

• Orlando
• St. Petersburg
• Sarasota
• Tampa
• Fort Myers
• Naples
• Melbourne
• Port St. Lucie
• Jacksonville
• Tallahassee

Inland cities farther from Florida's vulnerable coasts are less prone to hurricane impacts than beach communities directly on the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.

FAQs

What city is safest in Florida?

According to the most recent FBI crime statistics, Marco Island has the lowest crime rate in Florida, making it the safest city in the state.

Is Florida a safe state to live in?

Florida is considered a relatively safe state with moderately low crime rates compared to other states. However, safety varies by region and city, so research specific areas carefully.

What is the safest city in Florida for seniors?

Some of the safest cities in Florida for seniors include Marco Island, Weston, Parkland, Winter Springs, Oviedo, Sebastian, and Port St. Lucie. These have low crime rates plus amenities tailored for retirees.

Conclusion

As mentioned earlier, no community is safe from crime. Still, the following is a list of Florida cities with lower crime risks. Parkland, Weston, and Marco Island are the most secure. Still, there are many other security options available. Crime statistics of the past years and preventive measures will assist you in selecting the best haven in the Sunshine State. Which Florida cities would you like to add to the list of the safest? Let us know in the comments!