News Summary
Florida has been highlighted in the latest U.S. News & World Report safety rankings, with Pensacola ranking No. 4 among the safest cities in the nation. The comprehensive study used crime data from the FBI and found Florida to have the most cities recognized for their low crime rates. Pensacola’s crime index score of 9.4 emphasizes its secure environment, contributing to Florida’s reputation as a safe state. With no cities from Florida listed among the most dangerous, residents can feel confident about their safety.
Florida has emerged as a standout state in the latest safety rankings released by U.S. News & World Report, with its city of Pensacola receiving notable recognition. The annual study analyzes crime data from across the United States, utilizing statistics reported by the FBI to determine which places are the safest to live.
Pensacola has secured the No. 4 position nationally among the safest cities, an impressive feat that underscores its significantly lower-than-average crime rates in comparison to other cities of similar size. The rankings reflect a crime index score of 9.4 for Pensacola, reinforcing its status as a secure community within Florida.
The report identifies Augusta, Georgia, as the safest city in the nation, followed by Montgomery, Alabama, and South Bend, Indiana, taking the second and third spots respectively. Pensacola ranks just after these cities, highlighting its successful efforts in maintaining public safety.
Florida demonstrated a commendable presence in safety, boasting a total of seven cities in the rankings, the highest of any state in the country. This statistic indicates a trend toward enhanced security measures and community safety initiatives across Florida. Furthermore, the report reveals that no cities from Florida were included in the list of the most dangerous cities, signifying a positive outlook on safety in the state.
Specifically, the rankings are derived from a comprehensive analysis that examines both violent and property crime rates. The data is measured per 1,000 residents, providing a clear picture of the safety levels experienced by individuals living in these communities. In addition to Pensacola, U.S. News & World Report also highlighted several other safe cities within Florida, showcasing a diverse range of communities and their respective demographics.
Overview of the Safest Cities in Florida
The following cities were named the safest in Florida, along with their respective populations and crime statistics:
- Marco Island: Population 16,374; Violent Crimes: 2.99; Property Crimes: 6.11.
- North Palm Beach: Population 13,054; Violent Crimes: 3.22; Property Crimes: 7.74.
- Wildwood: Population 18,726; Violent Crimes: 5.98; Property Crimes: 9.99.
- Safety Harbor: Population 17,008; Violent Crimes: 6.47; Property Crimes: 11.05.
- Key Biscayne: Population 14,283; Violent Crimes: 2.94; Property Crimes: 15.33.
- Satellite Beach: Population 11,295; Violent Crimes: 5.22; Property Crimes: 13.81.
- Miramar: Population 138,613; Violent Crimes: 6.64; Property Crimes: 14.34.
- Dunedin: Population 36,066; Violent Crimes: 8.18; Property Crimes: 12.87.
- Miami Lakes: Population 31,029; Violent Crimes: 3.09; Property Crimes: 20.98.
Each city’s ranking takes into account both the number of reported crimes and the presence of full-time law enforcement officers, a factor that contributes to the safety scores evaluated in the report. These findings are indispensable for residents and potential movers seeking safe environments in which to live and raise families.
The results of this study are crucial for individuals contemplating relocation for safety reasons in Florida. With an array of cities recognized for their low crime rates, residents can make informed decisions based on reliable data regarding community safety. As crime rates remain a paramount concern for many, understanding the safest cities can help individuals identify optimal locations for a peaceful living environment.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Click Orlando
- Ramsey Solutions
- WTSP News
- Fox 35 Orlando
- Patch
- Wikipedia: Safety
- Google Search: Safest Cities in Florida
- Google Scholar: Safest Cities in Florida
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Safest Cities in Florida
- Google News: Safest Cities in Florida

Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.