Welcome to North Carolina, where vibrant communities balance safety and harmony. As both residents and visitors seek peace of mind, we embark on a mission to identify the top 10 safest cities in this appealing state.
From the majestic mountains of Asheville to the picturesque seaside towns of Wilmington, North Carolina offers a diverse range of safe havens.
Join us as we discover the welcoming neighborhoods, thriving economies, and low crime rates that set these places apart.
Whether you wish to migrate or simply relax, these cities provide a secure haven within the beauty of the Tar Heel State.
Top 5 Safest Cities in North Carolina
Pinehurst
- Population: 18,426. Violent Crimes Per 100,000: 32
- Property Crimes per 100,000: 374
- Murders: 0 per 100,000 people.
Pinehurst nearly surpassed Holly Springs this year, taking the top spot in the Tarheel State, thanks to the state’s second safest property crime rate and second safest violent crime rate.
So, do you know what that means? When you leave for your daily game of golf, leave your car unlocked with the doors open.
Make sure to stop by Betsy’s for a crepe. I drive an hour each way at least twice a year to eat breakfast there; it’s great.
Whispering Pines
- Population: 5,235.
- Violent crime per 100,000: 57
- Property Crimes Per 100,000: 324
- Murders: One; Murders per 100,000: 19
Whispering Pines, in Moore County, North Carolina, is the state’s third safest city, with a violent crime rate of 57 per 100,000 people and a murder rate of 0.00019102196752626553.
Despite its population growth reaching 5,235, the municipality has the lowest overall crime rate of 382/100k people per capita, showing strong law enforcement measures.
Despite its rising population, Whispering Pines has a property crime rate of 324 per 100,000 residents. Given their safety record, they can consider developing a new city tagline like “Whispering Pines: Where Safety Sings.”
Fuquay–Varina
- Population: 39,037 Violent Crimes Per 100,000: 69
- Property Crimes Per 100,000: 850
- Murders: 0 per 100,000 people.
Fuquay-Varina is becoming known for its safety, with no killings, 27 violent crimes, and 332 property offenses, making it North Carolina’s fourth safest city.
Its low crime statistics of 69/100,000 people for violence and 850/100,000 for property crimes place it sixth and ninth among state municipalities, respectively.
The town’s close proximity to Research Triangle Park, as well as its strategic location between coastal beaches and mountain ranges, contribute to its growth and safety reputation.
Waxhaw
- Population: 22,613. Violent Crimes Per 100,000: 84
- Property Crimes Per 100,000: 734
- Murders: 0 per 100,000 people.
Waxhaw, located in Union County, is ranked sixth in terms of safety due to its low violent crime rates.
Waxhaw has the ninth-lowest violent crime rate (84 per 100,000 people) and the seventh-lowest property crime rate (734 per 100,000 people).
Waxhaw’s past as a gold mining town, paired with its rapid growth from 2010 and until 2024, has made it a desirable destination for those who value safety.
The town’s current status as an antiques and fine dining destination enhances its reputation as a sanctuary with small-town charm.
Rolesville
- Population: 10,549
- Violent crime per 100,000: 85.
- Property Crimes Per 100,000: 654
- Murders: 0 per 100,000 people.
Rolesville is the sixth safest city on our list and another Raleigh suburb.
While this suburb is slightly further out in the boonies to the northeast of Raleigh, it nevertheless packs a respectable punch for a city of size.
It has the ninth-lowest violent crime rate in the state, so don’t worry about getting into a fight with your neighbors.
The town’s average income is $127575, and the median home value is $510111. Given the high median pay, that is relatively cheap.
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