Top 10 Safest Cities in Virginia
Many factors determine where you call home. You might want to stay in a familiar town, like where you spent your childhood. Your job may take you to rural roads or through the urban sprawl. You may want home to be where it stays warm all year or where all four seasons are well-represented. If you are like almost 9 million other people, you have found Virginia is a safe state to plant your roots.
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Living in Virginia - "Virginia is for Lovers"
Virginia is a great place to live. Every interstate entering Virginia sports a sign with a big red heart and the phrase “Virginia is for lovers.” It has been the official Virginia Tourism slogan since 1967. Virginia boasts a thriving economy, large military presence, proximity to Washington, DC, and geography from beaches to mountains. Get your thrills at a theme park or relax in wine country. Whatever brought you to Virginia, you are in the right place. You might wonder, however: Is Virginia a safe place to live?
Virginia remains one of the safest states in the U.S., ranking #12 nationwide for crime and corrections in 2025, with a violent crime rate of 2.8 per 1,000 residents—well below the national average of about 3.7. Every city in the state still has a violent crime rate below the national benchmark, and the Commonwealth clocks in at #7 for the lowest experiences of gun violence nationwide.
Before we name the safest places to live in Virginia, it is important to understand how the safest towns in Virginia are determined. Safest city rankings are based on crime statistics reported in the FBI’s National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) for 2023-2024. It compiles data in two categories: property crime and violent crime. Property crimes include burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft, and arson. Violent crimes encompass sexual assault, aggravated assault, manslaughter, and murder. These are calculated with the number of these crimes in each city per 1,000 residents. Results also consider the number of full-time law enforcement officers employed in each city per 1,000 residents. Interestingly, the safest cities usually have the fewest number of law enforcement officers. This year, 60 cities in Virginia met the criteria for ranking.
Residents in the following Virginia cities don’t have to worry so much about crime. Here is a countdown of the top 10 safest cities in Virginia.
Top 10 Safest Cities in Virginia for 2025
10. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Nestled on the southeastern coast of Virginia in the Hampton Roads region, Virginia Beach is a vibrant coastal city of over 450,000 residents, renowned for its iconic three-mile boardwalk, pristine beaches, and family-friendly attractions such as the Virginia Aquarium. It is a haven for water sports, fishing, and summer concerts, blending urban energy with seaside relaxation. In terms of safety, the city maintains a low violent crime rate of 0.9 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 16.7, both well below national averages, with no significant post-pandemic increases disrupting its sunny appeal.
| Population | 453,991 |
| Violent Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 0.9 |
| Property Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 16.7 |
| Total Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 17.6 |
| Median Household Income (annually) | $88,000 |
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9. Dumfries, Virginia
Situated along the Potomac River in Prince William County, approximately 25 miles south of Washington, D.C., Dumfries is a quaint suburban town of about 5,800 residents offering convenient commutes and proximity to the Quantico Marine Base. Notable attractions include the historic Weems-Botts Museum and nearby trails in Prince William Forest Park, perfect for weekend hikes and kayaking. Crime rates continue to decline, with a violent crime rate of 2.1 per 1,000 and property crime at 10.2, making Dumfries an increasingly secure choice for young professionals and families.
| Population | 5,775 |
| Violent Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 2.1 |
| Property Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 10.2 |
| Total Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 12.3 |
| Median Household Income (annually) | $95,000 |
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8. Poquoson, Virginia
This charming coastal enclave in the Hampton Roads area, often referred to as “The City Between” for its location between the York and James Rivers, offers small-town tranquility to its 12,600 residents, many of whom are drawn to the water. Local highlights include seafood restaurants, boating marinas, and birdwatching sites, along with easy access to nearby Yorktown battlefields. With a violent crime rate of 1.8 per 1,000 and property crime at 7.3, both steady and low, including zero robberies, Poquoson provides exceptional safety amid relaxed maritime charm.
| Population | 12,648 |
| Violent Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 1.8 |
| Property Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 7.3 |
| Total Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 9.1 |
| Median Household Income (annually) | $114,503 |
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7. Warrenton, Virginia
Located in the heart of Fauquier County, about 45 miles west of Washington, D.C., Warrenton is a historic market town of roughly 10,300 residents, celebrated as the “Horse and Hunt Capital” for its equestrian trails, vineyards, and the lively Old Town Farmers Market. It offers a blend of rural beauty and modern convenience, appealing to both food enthusiasts and history buffs exploring Civil War landmarks. Warrenton’s safety record stands out with a violent crime rate of just 0.6 per 1,000 and property crime at 12.1, violent incidents having declined since last year, confirming its reputation as a secure and scenic escape.
| Population | 10,275 |
| Violent Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 0.6 |
| Property Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 12.1 |
| Total Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 12.7 |
| Median Household Income (annually) | $95,400 |
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6. Vienna, Virginia
A refined gem in Fairfax County, only a few miles from downtown Washington, D.C., Vienna captivates its 16,200 residents with tree-lined streets, top-rated schools, and cultural treasures such as the Vienna Arts Society and Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. It is a commuter’s paradise for tech professionals, offering upscale dining and vibrant weekend farmers’ markets amid lush parks. Crime remains impressively low, with 1.2 violent incidents per 1,000 residents and 8.6 property crimes, stable rates that allow families and professionals to thrive with peace of mind.
| Population | 16,191 |
| Violent Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 1.2 |
| Property Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 8.6 |
| Total Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 9.8 |
| Median Household Income (annually) | $161,580 |
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5. Lexington, Virginia
Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley within Rockbridge County, Lexington is a storied college town of 7,500 residents, home to the Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University. The town brims with antebellum architecture, apple orchards, and the Virginia Horse Center. History enthusiasts frequent its Civil War museums and bluegrass festivals, while outdoor lovers enjoy nearby Natural Bridge. With a violent crime rate of 1.1 per 1,000 and property crime at 7.4, with no robberies or vehicle thefts, Lexington exemplifies safety and charm.
| Population | 7,532 |
| Violent Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 1.2 |
| Property Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 7.4 |
| Total Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 8.5 |
| Median Household Income (annually) | $45,900 |
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4. Blacksburg, Virginia
Located in Montgomery County’s New River Valley, Blacksburg thrives as Virginia Tech’s innovative hub, home to 46,000 residents who enjoy the perfect balance of college-town vitality and outdoor adventure. Popular pastimes include hiking to Cascades Falls and celebrating Hokie football weekends. The city’s safety mirrors its spirit, with only 0.9 violent crimes per 1,000 residents and 6.8 property crimes, ensuring a lively yet low-risk environment.
| Population | 46,052 |
| Violent Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 0.9 |
| Property Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 6.8 |
| Total Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 7.7 |
| Median Household Income (annually) | $48,070 |
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3. Buena Vista, Virginia
Set against the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockbridge County, Buena Vista is an understated gem of 6,600 residents. It offers direct access to the Appalachian Trail, kayaking on the Maury River, and a flourishing arts scene supported by the Buena Vista Arts Council. Surrounded by vineyards and mountain views, it’s a retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and farm-to-table diners alike. Crime remains minimal, at 1.1 violent incidents per 1,000 and a remarkable 3.2 property rate, significant year-over-year declines, including no robberies, contributing to its peaceful small-town atmosphere.
| Population | 6,581 |
| Violent Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 1.1 |
| Property Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 3.2 |
| Total Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 4.3 |
| Median Household Income (annually) | $54,458 |
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2. Purcellville, Virginia
Located in Loudoun County’s scenic wine country, about 40 miles northwest of Washington, D.C., Purcellville charms its 9,000 residents with vineyard tours, the annual Go Cupcakery Festival, and hot-air balloon rides over rolling hills. With top-rated schools and thriving farmers’ markets, it perfectly blends rural character with suburban comfort. Crime rates are exceptionally low, just 0.3 violent incidents per 1,000 and 6.0 property crimes, with reductions across all categories and no recorded sexual assaults, solidifying Purcellville’s status as one of Virginia’s safest communities.
| Population | 8,990 |
| Violent Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 0.3 |
| Property Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 6.0 |
| Total Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 6.3 |
| Median Household Income (annually) | $189,791 |
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1. Bridgewater, Virginia
As this year’s safest city in Virginia to live, Bridgewater, located in Rockingham County’s Shenandoah Valley, boasts a close-knit community of 6,700 residents rooted in Mennonite traditions. The town thrives on local farms, craft breweries, and the serene North River, ideal for tubing and fishing. With German heritage festivals and the popular Woodman’s Market, Bridgewater offers authentic Virginia tranquility. Safety levels are unmatched, with only 0.2 violent crimes per 1,000 residents and 4.5 property crimes—a dramatic decrease from 2024—with just one reported rape and no robberies, making it an inviting and peaceful place to call home.
| Population | 6,743 |
| Violent Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 0.2 |
| Property Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 4.5 |
| Total Crimes (per 1,000 residents) | 4.7 |
| Median Household Income (annually) | $65,200 |
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Most Improved: Richmond, Virginia
It wouldn’t be a list of Virginia’s best anything without a shout-out to Richmond, Virginia. The greater Richmond metropolitan area ranks as the third most populous in Virginia, home to approximately 1.37 million residents as of 2025. Over the past few decades, Richmond’s crime rate has declined dramatically, with violent incidents down an impressive 166% since the 1990s. The trend continues in 2025, as city data shows overall major crimes reaching historic lows. Violent crime has fallen 26% year-over-year through midyear, while property crime has dropped 15%, including a remarkable 34% decrease in burglaries.
Richmond consistently ranks among the top five best cities to live in Virginia, placing fourth on Niche’s 2025 list, just behind Arlington, Alexandria, and Virginia Beach. It also earns national recognition, ranking seventh in the U.S. for work-life balance. The region offers an eclectic mix of neighborhoods, ranging from serene, upscale suburbs to lively, arts-focused districts brimming with creativity. Some of Richmond’s safest communities continue to stand out for families and young professionals alike, combining low crime rates with exceptional amenities.
Bellevue remains a tranquil residential enclave below the citywide crime average, featuring tree-lined streets, the expansive Bryan Park with its trails and picnic areas, and easy access to I-64 for convenient commuting. The Museum District serves as Richmond’s cultural centerpiece, safer than ever and home to treasures such as the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, the Science Museum of Virginia, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, ideal for those who enjoy walkable neighborhoods surrounded by art, history, and green spaces. Meanwhile, the Fan District, so named for its distinctive fan-shaped layout, buzzes with safety and sophistication around Virginia Commonwealth University. This historic neighborhood offers award-winning restaurants, beautifully preserved Victorian rowhouses, and a dynamic street-art scene, creating a walkable and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
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Is Virginia a Safe Place to Live in 2025?
Yes, Virginia crime rates sit below the national average and have positive year-over-year trends in violent offenses—though perceptions of safety have dipped slightly, and property crimes like package theft remain a common concern. The state's violent crime rate stands at approximately 2.1-2.8 per 1,000 residents (versus the U.S. average of 3.7), and it ranks #12 nationwide for overall crime and corrections while placing #7 for lowest gun violence experiences. Nationally, violent crime fell 4% in 2024, with Virginia's cities contributing to a 17% homicide drop and 20% robbery decline through mid-2025.
Is Virginia the right place to move?
It depends on your priorities, like family activities, career opportunities, access to the outdoors, and affordability, but yes, Virginia is a strong contender for relocation in 2025, ranking in the top 20 states overall for livability and business. With a diverse economy, low violent crime, and stunning geography from beaches to mountains, there’s something for everyone in the Commonwealth.
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FAQs about the Safest Cities in Virginia
Is Leesburg, VA, safe to live in?
Yes, the Leesburg, VA, crime rate is relatively low. It has a low violent crime rate (1.1 per 1,000 residents, down from last year) and property crime below the national average, plus low natural disaster risks.
What are the crime rates in Virginia?
Virginia's crime rate in 2025 is below national averages at roughly 2.1 per 1,000 residents, with significant declines across all major categories compared to 2023-2024. Data is based on FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) standards, tracking four violent offenses (murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault) and three property offenses (burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft) per 100,000 residents. Early 2025 trends show drastic drops in homicides (down 17% in the first half vs. 2024).
Is Virginia safe from hurricanes?
Virginia is not entirely safe from hurricanes, but the risk is moderate compared to southern East Coast states like Florida or the Carolinas. The state experiences tropical storms or their remnants nearly every year, with hurricanes affecting it about once every 2-3 years. Direct landfalls are rare (e.g., a Category 1 hits the coast every 15 years), but indirect impacts like heavy rain, flooding, and storm surge are common, especially in coastal and Tidewater regions. Inland areas (e.g., Richmond, Shenandoah Valley) face lower wind/surge risks but higher flash flooding potential.
Which city in Virginia has the lowest crime rate?
Based on the latest analysis using FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data, Buena Vista has the lowest overall crime rate among qualifying Virginia cities. Its rate is 4.3 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly below the state average (19.5 per 1,000) and national average (23.5 per 1,000). This includes a violent crime rate of 1.1 per 1,000 and property crime rate of 3.2 per 1,000. No robberies were reported, and both violent and property crimes decreased year-over-year.
Where is the best place to live in Virginia?
Determining the "best" place in Virginia is subjective and depends on your priorities. Based on 2025 rankings from Niche, Livability, and U.S. News, some of the best places to live in Virginia are Burke, Reston, and Arlington due to their close proximity to Washington, D.C., high income, short commute times, and good quality of life. In addition, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Roanoke also appeal due to their coastal lifestyles, affordability, and green spaces, making them suitable for families or nature lovers.
What is the nicest city in Virginia to live in?
There is no one “nicest” city in Virginia, as the optimal choice depends on individual priorities such as career opportunities, family-friendliness, or safety. For example, Arlington frequently appears at the top of the rankings thanks to its strong job market and plentiful amenities. The suburbs of Burke and Reston are highly rated for overall quality of life. Meanwhile, Poquoson is widely regarded as one of the safest communities in the state. Other desirable locations include Alexandria for its historic charm and Virginia Beach for its appealing coastal lifestyle.
What is the number one crime city in Virginia?
Based on the latest available FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data from 2023 (full 2024/2025 stats pending release), Petersburg is the number one crime city in Virginia for overall crime rate, at 61.6 incidents per 1,000 residents—over 3x the state average (19.5 per 1,000). This includes a violent crime rate of 13.4 per 1,000 (nearly 5x the state average of 2.8) and property crime of 48.2 per 1,000. Economic challenges and urban density contribute to high rates of theft, assault, and burglary.
What are the cheapest cities to live in Virginia?
Virginia's most affordable cities are Danville, Martinsville, and Lynchburg, thanks to their low housing and daily expenses. Other budget-friendly options, noted for their reasonable overall cost of living, include Roanoke, Portsmouth, and Covington.
Moving to Richmond, VA? Trust the expert movers from Stewart Moving & Storage. Whether you’re looking for a local or long-distance mover, Stewart Moving & Storage is more than a safe choice—it is the best choice. Call us today for a moving estimate at 804-377-1700.
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