When it comes to relocating, one of the primary concerns for many families is safety. Florida, known for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and vibrant culture, offers numerous safe and welcoming communities. 

The safest places to live in Florida are not just defined by low crime rates; they also offer excellent schools, thriving job markets, and abundant recreational opportunities. 

It’s no wonder that many people are drawn to the Sunshine State, often enlisting the help of a trusted moving company to make the transition smoother. 

Families, retirees, and young professionals alike are discovering the benefits of living in Florida’s safest communities. These areas provide a sense of security and peace of mind, allowing residents to fully enjoy the state’s natural beauty and vibrant social scene.

Naples

Naples, Florida, is widely recognized as one of the safest places to live in Florida. With a crime rate of just 108.1 incidents per 100,000 people, Naples ranks in the 90th percentile nationwide in terms of safety. 

The city’s violent crime rate is particularly low, with only 3% of total crimes being violent, which translates to an incident rate of 1.07 per 1,000 residents. This makes Naples significantly safer than many other parts of the United States. 

The most common types of crime in Naples are petty theft and shoplifting, while violent crimes such as assault and robbery are quite rare. 

The low crime rates, coupled with excellent public services and a strong sense of community, make Naples an attractive destination for families, retirees, and anyone seeking a secure environment​.

Weston

Weston, Florida, is consistently recognized as one of the safest cities in the state. With a population of approximately 68,893, Weston has a crime rate that is 80% lower than the national average. Specifically, the city reported only 343 crimes in 2020, with 36 of those being violent crimes and 307 related to property crimes. The low crime rates contribute to a high standard of living, reflected in the city’s impressive livability score of 83. This makes Weston an attractive place for families and individuals seeking a secure and serene environment​​.

The decline in crime rates in Weston is notable, with violent crime down by 87% and property crime down by 78% over recent years. The majority of the crimes reported were thefts, highlighting the importance of maintaining basic safety precautions.

Parkland

Parkland, Florida, is known for its safety and strong community values, making it an attractive place for families and individuals seeking a secure environment. The city has a relatively low crime rate, with recent data indicating significant reductions in both violent and property crimes. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 87%, and property crime is down by 78%. 

This substantial decline in crime rates contributes to Parkland’s reputation as one of the safest cities in Florida. The proactive efforts of local law enforcement, such as the Broward Sheriff’s Office, play a critical role in maintaining this safe environment through regular community updates and engagement initiatives.

Sarasota

Sarasota, Florida, is generally regarded as a safe community, though it does experience higher crime rates compared to national and state averages. 

The overall crime rate in Sarasota stands at 3,341 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 42.4% higher than the national average. Violent crimes, such as murder, rape, and aggravated assault, occur at a rate of 592 per 100,000 people, which is 52.7% higher than the national average. 

However, it’s worth noting that the murder rate in Sarasota is lower than the state average. Property crimes, including burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft, are more common, with a rate of 2,749 incidents per 100,000 people.

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island, Florida, is known for its serene environment and relatively low crime rates, making it one of the safer places to live and visit in the state. 

The island has seen an increase in safety measures, particularly around beaches like Blind Pass, following recent incidents to ensure the well-being of both residents and visitors. The local police and community efforts contribute significantly to maintaining a secure environment on the island.

Post-Hurricane Ian, Sanibel Island has been undergoing extensive recovery efforts. Despite the storm’s devastation, the community has made significant progress, with many beaches and attractions reopening. However, visitors are advised to remain cautious and heed local safety guidelines, especially concerning water safety and wildlife encounters. Overall, Sanibel Island remains a peaceful and safe destination with proactive safety measures in place​.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton, Florida, is renowned for its safety and is often considered one of the safest cities in the state. The city boasts a low violent crime rate of 1.45 per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than both the state and national averages. This means residents and visitors have a low likelihood of encountering violent crime, with the chance of becoming a victim being 1 in 688. 

Property crimes are more common, with a rate of 18.44 per 1,000 residents, translating to a 1 in 54 chance of experiencing theft or burglary. Despite this, Boca Raton’s overall crime rate is still favorable compared to other cities of similar size across the United States, making it a relatively safe place to live and visit​.

Coral Gables

Coral Gables, Florida, is recognized for its relatively low crime rates and high quality of life. The city has a violent crime rate of 0.71 per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than the national median. This translates to a 1 in 1,406 chance of experiencing a violent crime, making Coral Gables safer in this regard compared to many other communities in the United States. 

Property crimes are more frequent, with a rate of 21.28 per 1,000 residents, meaning residents have a 1 in 47 chance of being a victim of property crime. Despite this, Coral Gables remains a desirable location due to its proactive community safety measures and effective local law enforcement.

Conclusion

Choosing the right place to live is a significant decision, and safety is often at the top of the list of considerations. Florida offers a wide range of communities that provide not only beautiful surroundings and a high quality of life but also peace of mind.