Study: Safest Cities in Florida 2016
Palm trees, pristine beaches, and safe neighborhoods are the leading reasons to move to Florida. You just need to know which communities are the safest.
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| Safest Cities in Florida 2016 © CreditDonkey |
While cities like Miami, Daytona Beach, and Orlando are important to the economy, these tourist meccas can’t compare to other destinations when it comes to safety. CreditDonkey has identified the 50 Florida cities that set the gold standard for low crime rates.
The state saw its overall crime rate drop by 4.7%, a 43-year low, in 2013. That’s impressive, considering the state’s population and the number of people who travel here for business or pleasure each year.
If you already live in Florida, you’ll want to check out our rankings to see if your hometown made the cut. Likewise, our guide is a must-read if a move here is in the works.
Study Methodology
The FBI’s Uniform Crime Report data for 2014 served as the basis for our study. We evaluated crime data for each of Florida’s cities with a population of 10,000 or more.
Specifically, we considered the violent and property crime rates per 1,000 residents. Violent crime includes:
- Murder
- Rape
- Robbery
- Aggravated assault
Property crime includes:
- Burglary
- Larceny/theft
- Motor vehicle theft
- Arson
We also zeroed in on the number of robberies and burglaries per 1,000 residents for each city. We decided to give these two special attention because of how frequently they occur.
To finalize our rankings, we assigned each Florida city a CreditDonkey Safety Score based on its violent crime, property crime, robbery, and burglary rates. They’re ranked here according to their scores, with the lowest score earning the highest ranking.
Safest Cities 2016: Rankings
1. Weston
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 5.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.8
Affordability and a family-friendly environment already make Weston great, but the low crime rate increases the value of its stock even more. This city of just over 69,000 residents is part of the larger Miami metro area, and it’s a short drive from the sandy shores of Ft. Lauderdale. Weston is under the jurisdiction of the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, where deputies are ready to answer calls for help 24/7.
2. Parkland
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 6.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.0
The Broward County Sheriff also oversees crime prevention and criminal investigations in Parkland, which lies to the northeast of Weston. Residents have access to a number of safety programs and tools, such as crime mapping and the Home Watch program. In 2014, deputies investigated just two robbery reports and 31 burglary reports, evidence of how effective the department’s initiatives are.
3. Marco Island
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 6.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.1
Marco Island is one the southwest Florida coast’s most desirable tourist locations. With around 17,000 people living here year-round, the island has its own police force that operates on a full-time basis to keep residents safe. The city boasts some impressively low numbers where crime is concerned, with only five violent crimes reported in 2014. Officers patrol by car on land while the marine unit promotes safety on the water.
4. Winter Springs
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 10.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.7
If you prefer paddling around the lake to splashing in the ocean, Winter Springs may be the place for you. This quiet, low-key city sits less than 20 miles northeast of Orlando, but locals aren’t inundated with hordes of tourist traffic. The Winter Springs Police Department is community-focused, and promoting public safety is priority number one. Events like the annual Spring Family Festival are a great opportunity to get to know the officers who protect and serve.
5. Cooper City
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 12.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.9
Cooper City prides itself on being “Someplace Special,” and that motto is a great way to describe this southern Florida city. There’s a strong family focus here, and local law enforcement strives to maintain the highest quality of life possible where safety is concerned. The Broward County Sheriff’s Cooper City District Office is manned by a full-time staff of highly trained deputies who are skilled at fighting crime.
6. Niceville
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 12.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.2
Once named Boggy, after the bayou it sits along, the city of Niceville adopted its more fitting moniker in 1910. It does an outstanding job of living up to that name, especially where crime is concerned. The city reported no murders in 2014, and that same year just two robberies were reported. The Niceville Police Department deserves recognition for its efforts in keeping crime from casting a shadow on the city’s bright future.
7. Key Biscayne
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.2
Key Biscayne is a verified island paradise, but it’s still close enough to Florida’s mainland to make it convenient for commuters or anyone who wants to enjoy Miami’s attractions. The village boasts the lowest number of violent crimes in our rankings, with two aggravated assaults reported in 2014. The burglary rate is also exceptionally low, numbering eight incidents total.
While we have approximately 13,000 residents, we have approximately 750,000 visitors a year travel through our city to reach the state park. They use our roads, shop in our stores, and eat in our restaurants.
So in essence, we actually police for a large amount of people using only 34 sworn officers. This disparity forces us to consistently review our procedures, techniques, and analysis of trends within and outside our community to create a patrol plan that works.
I am extremely proud of the work that our men and women do and for their commitment to the residents and visitors of our community
Chief Charles R. Press, Key Biscayne Police Department
8. Oviedo
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 12.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.3
The city of Oviedo borders Winter Springs and shares its neighbor’s reputation for safety. That’s characteristic of the Oviedo Police Department’s focus on creating a safe atmosphere for all of the city’s 37,000 residents. Officers hold themselves to the highest professional standards and citizens can sleep easy at night knowing they’re on the alert for crime.
9. Lady Lake
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 13.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.5
“Inviting” and “friendly” is how Lady Lake describes itself, and we’d add “safe” to that list as well. This laid-back town sits about 24 miles southeast of Ocala and just over 50 miles northwest of Orlando. As the city’s population continues to grow, the Lady Lake Police Department is evolving to meet the changing needs of a thriving population. Uniformed officers are supported in their efforts to fight crime by a K-9 unit, motorcycle patrol, and police reserves.
10. Satellite Beach
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 13.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.7
Satellite Beach is a haven for several endangered species, including green sea turtles and North Atlantic right whales. It’s also an idyllic escape for Floridians who love to breathe the salt air and want to do so in safety. In 2014, Satellite Beach reported 12 violent crimes, divided between four robberies and eight aggravated assaults. The Satellite Beach Police Department works industriously to maintain tranquility in this family paradise.
11. Port St. Lucie
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.8
“A City for All Ages,” Port St. Lucie is overflowing with beauty and charm. It’s the second largest city in our rankings, with over 172,000 residents, but it easily surpasses some of Florida’s smaller locales in terms of safety. The Police Athletic League is an example of local law enforcement’s determination to foster solid relationships with residents to prevent crime.
12. Punta Gorda
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.9
The city of Punta Gorda is located along the Peace River, where it connects with the Charlotte Harbor. This waterfront community has everything anyone could want in a hometown: historic charm, newer amenities, and a police force that’s dedicated to safeguarding the lives and property of all the city’s residents. Whether you’re at work, home, or relaxing on the water, the Punta Gorda Police Department is there to protect you.
Chief Thomas P. Lewis, Punta Gorda Police Department
13. North Port
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 14.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.0
North Port is a rapidly growing city just northwest of Punta Gorda and Charlotte Harbor. Close to 60,000 people have settled down here, and many of them are attracted to the good schools and affordable neighborhoods. As more people move in, the North Port Police Department has had to step up its game to keep crime down, but the city’s 13th place ranking shows that officers are doing a great job.
Did you know:
We are fortunate to have an active and engaged citizenry that through social media, has assisted us with solving crimes. In addition, our community consistently reports suspicious activity which often thwarts criminal attempts against our citizens. We promote a neighbors helping neighbor’s philosophy. This is also true with the collaborative efforts we have with our surrounding federal, state, and local law enforcement organizations as well as the other City Departments. It is through teamwork that we become successful.
Josh Taylor, Public Information Officer, City of North Port
14. Sunny Isles Beach
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.5
- Property crime per 1,000: 19.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.6
Sunny Isles Beach is known as the city of sun and sea, and residents enjoy plenty of both on a daily basis. Like many of southern Florida’s cities, there’s a solid senior population, but it’s also well-suited to families and professionals who work in the Miami metro area. The city’s police officers patrol by boat, ATV, Jet Ski, motorcycle, bicycle, and car, leaving little room for crime to get out of hand.
15. Margate
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.7
- Property crime per 1,000: 16.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.8
Once largely farmland and wilderness, Margate has exploded into a city of nearly 56,000 people. The city’s motto is “Together We Make It Great,” and the Margate Police Department takes that sentiment to heart. The department hosts the annual National Night Out event, allowing the city’s residents to interact one-on-one with the officers who fight crime on their behalf.
16. Jupiter
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.7
- Property crime per 1,000: 17.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.9
Once ranked one of the nation’s happiest seaside towns by Coastal Living magazine, Jupiter is the kind of place that’s easy to fall in love with. You’ve got amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean, palm trees on just about every street corner, and a police department that cares deeply about your safety. The Citizens Police Academy is your chance to get involved in a hands-on way, but if you want something a little less strenuous, you can sign up for your neighborhood crime watch instead.
17. Safety Harbor
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime 1,000: 17.6
- Burglary per 1,0 per 00: 3.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 5.9
You’d expect a city with safety in its name to have an outstanding crime rate, and Safety Harbor doesn’t disappoint. There were 38 violent crimes reported in 2014, with no murders and four robberies included in that number. There were 64 burglaries reported over that same period. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Department is responsible for keeping watch over the city, and deputies take that job very seriously.
18. Port Orange
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 19.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.0
Port Orange is part of Florida’s fun coast area, sitting directly south of Daytona Beach. Families love the city because of its relatively low cost of living, and unlike Daytona, it’s not overrun with tourists on a regular basis. It’s also a standout in the safety department; overall, the violent crime rate is just one-tenth of the state average.
19. Venice
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 18.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.0
The Venice Police Department believes strongly in staying in touch with the people they serve. Programs like Senior Assistance Freedom Enrichment and Shop with a Cop are just some of the ways officers connect with citizens on a regular basis. It’s initiatives like these that help to keep Venice’s notably low crime rate intact.
20. Coral Springs
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 19.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.0
Coral Springs is part of the greater Miami metro area, and it’s Parkland’s neighbor to the south. The city has its own police department, which works with the Broward County Sheriff’s Office to facilitate programs like S.A.L.T., an effort aimed at reducing criminal victimization of seniors. The department also offers a Police Explorers Program for young adults who are interested in a law enforcement career.
21. Lighthouse Point
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 19.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.1
The city of Lighthouse Point is tucked between Deerfield Beach and Pompano Beach, and it offers breathtaking views of the southern Florida coastline. Lighthouse Point police are on the cutting edge of crime prevention, and the department recently launched a Nixle alert system for residents. If you want to get involved in the city’s safety effort, the department accepts citizen volunteers.
22. Edgewater
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 18.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.3
Edgewater is another coastal town, just south of New Smyrna Beach. Close to 21,000 people live in this seafaring community and do so in peace and harmony. The Citizens Assisting Police (CAPS) program is the police department’s way of incorporating residents into the city’s crime-fighting strategy. That, in part, helped to contribute to the low number of violent crimes in 2014.
23. Cape Coral
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 19.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.3
Cape Coral is on Florida’s gulf coast, right next door to Fort Myers. More than 175,000 people hang their hats here, and all of them look to the Cape Coral Police Department to ensure their well-being. The department works with citizens to prevent crime in a number of ways, such as the Senior Sleuth volunteer program, neighborhood watches, and the Do the Right Thing youth initiative.
Connie Barron, Public Affairs Manager, Cape Coral
24. Sebastian
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 20.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.3
Aside from the stunning scenery, one of the most memorable things about Sebastian is its motto: “Friendly People and Six Old Grouches.” While there are lots of theories about who the grouches may be, one thing is certain. Sebastian is a true gem along Florida’s Treasure Coast, and we applaud the city’s police department for striving to keep it that way.
25. Wellington
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.5
- Property crime per 1,000: 19.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.4
The village of Wellington is packed with character, and it’s a superb place to call home if you’re raising children. There’s a healthy small business scene, pleasant neighborhoods, and an abundance of recreational programs geared towards the city’s youth. Whether you’re working, playing, or relaxing at home, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is there to make sure you’re staying safe.
26. Miami Lakes
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 21.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.4
As its name suggests, Miami Lakes is part of the greater Miami metro area. The motto here is “Growing Beautifully,” and that embodies the city’s spirit quite nicely. While the city’s population and economy have expanded over the years, the crime rate hasn’t. Twenty-one violent crime reports were filed in 2014, and only six of them were robberies, which is encouraging for new and old residents alike.
27. Rockledge
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 19.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.5
Preserving the past and planning the future is on the agenda in Rockledge, and part of that involves looking for ways to wipe out crime. The Rockledge Police Department has accepted the challenge enthusiastically and instituted multiple methods of defense. Operation Shred, for instance, is aimed at reducing identity theft while the National Night Out event is designed to raise awareness about drug-related crime in the area.
28. Minneola
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 17.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 5.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.5
The city of Minneola invites newcomers to discover the possibilities as one of central Florida’s highlights. The city has a stellar violent crime rating, with a relatively low 24 violent crimes reported in 2014. That figure included three robberies. While property crimes occurred more frequently, there were fewer than 60 burglaries reported for the year.
29. Dunedin
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.5
- Property crime per 1,000: 19.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.6
Dunedin is one of the oldest towns on Florida’s west coast, and its beach has been voted one of the best in the country. The city has a rich Scottish heritage, and the annual Highland Games event draws both tourists and full-time residents into the fun. Dunedin doesn’t have its own police department, but you can rely on the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office for assistance in times of trouble.
We have a very strong Parks & Recreation Department, a wonderful Public Library, a vibrant Arts scene and throughout the year there are a variety of free public events that bring residents/visitors together to enjoy life in a Dunedin fashion.
Courtney King, Communications Director, City of Dunedin
30. Lake Mary
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 19.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 5.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 6.8
Lake Mary, the city of lakes, is known for its attractive residential neighborhoods, excellent schools, and tech-based local economy. The city’s police department believes in being pro-active, and to that end, officers use community policing principles to fight crime. They specifically target Lake Mary’s youth through the Gang Resistance Education program and D.A.R.E.
31. St. Cloud
- Violent crime per 1,000: 3.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 20.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.0
The city of St. Cloud is all about celebrating small-town life, and even though more than 42,000 people live here, it still manages to convey a close-knit feel. The local police department regularly holds community outreach events to encourage closer ties between officers and citizens. Neighborhood watch programs and volunteer opportunities offer other avenues for residents to support law enforcement.
SCPD stands apart from other agencies by being efficient with the resources they have and being more innovative in the way they do things. They believe in respect, accountability and professionalism, and realize that contact with citizens may be the only experience they ever have with a police officer. Therefore, they are dedicated to setting the standard for their profession by being "Committed to Professional Excellence".
SCPD will continue focusing on the following projects: enhancing Intelligence Lead Policing, Public Education/Community Outreach Programs (i.e., Lock It Up, Fraud Awareness, Store Front Security, Senior Watch Program, building community trust), Drug Enforcement Operations, Text 911 and becoming accredited through Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA), etc.
St. Cloud Police Department’s Office of Public Information via Sandra Ramirez, City of St. Cloud Public Information Officer
32. Coconut Creek
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 22.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.0
Coconut Creek is the butterfly capital of the world. The Butterfly World aviary is a must-see if you have a free afternoon to while away. The Coconut Creek Police Department works to create the best experience possible for the city’s residents and visitors. Officers attend homeowner’s association meetings, complete security checks of your home while you’re away, and make a point of checking on seniors who live alone.
33. Pembroke Pines
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.6
- Property crime per 1,000: 23.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.2
With a population of more than 164,000, the Pembroke Pines Police Department is faced with greater crime-fighting challenges than some of the smaller cities in our rankings. Officers do a top-notch job, however, of making sure the city is as safe as possible at all times. The department’s Community Emergency Response Team trains citizens on how to lend law enforcement and firefighters a hand when a crisis arises.
34. Tamarac
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.8
- Property crime per 1,000: 19.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 5.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.2
Whether you’re young, old, or in between, Tamarac wants to be the city for your life. A low cost of living and variety of outdoor recreational opportunities give it a widespread appeal to residents of all ages. Law enforcement services are provided by the Broward Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Citizen Observer Patrol (COP) volunteer crime prevention team.
We spend a lot of time and energy making that happen.
Not only do we have a very active COP program, we (along with our Broward Sheriff’s Office partners) have instituted programs like Homewatch and Businesswatch (where crime prevention officers provide proactive security surveys), and Seniors vs. Crime. We’ve trained our Public Services workers to be extra “eyes and ears” for BSO while they’re out performing their duties, and we continue to look for ways to involve the community.
Elise Boston, Public Information Officer, Tamarac
35. Boca Raton
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.6
- Property crime per 1,000: 22.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.3
Boca Raton is a mix of retirees, college students, young families, and hardworking professionals. The city has several distinct neighborhoods that have just as much personality as the people who live in them. There’s always something to do and no matter where you go, the Boca Raton Police Department maintains a visible presence to ensure public safety.
36. Lynn Haven
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 24.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.4
Florida’s northern Gulf Coast region is where you’ll find the city of Lynn Haven, which is only a stone’s throw from Panama City. While this part of the Panhandle sees its fair share of spring breakers, Lynn Haven proves to be a safe, relaxing retreat from the crowds. The city reported a single robbery in 2014, out of 50 violent crimes. For burglaries, the total came to 41.
37. Royal Palm Beach
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 24.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.4
Royal Palm Beach is the place to be if you prefer a more active lifestyle. It’s close enough to the coast for things like kayaking or surfing, and the city sponsors several sports leagues for soccer, basketball and football enthusiasts. District 9 of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office oversees public safety in the city, and we salute them for the outstanding work they do.
Did you know:
Raymond Liggins, Village Manager, Royal Palm Beach
38. Miramar
- Violent crime per 1,000: 3.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 1.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 20.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 5.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.6
The Miramar Police Department wants the city’s residents to take an active role in crime prevention. Volunteers can keep an eye out for suspicious activity by joining the Citizens on Patrol program or they can become a VIP, short for Volunteers in Policing Service. Both programs are a great way to give back to the department and the community as a whole.
39. Fernandina Beach
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.5
- Property crime per 1,000: 22.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.7
Fernandina Beach is on the outskirts of the Jacksonville metro area, and it sits just across the water from Cumberland Island, Georgia. Visitors flock here to explore the area’s local history and take in the picturesque landscape, two of the city’s highlights. A third is its low crime rate, which included six robbery reports and 59 burglary reports in 2014.
40. North Palm Beach
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 23.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 6.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.8
The village of North Palm Beach styles itself as “The Best Place to Live Under the Sun.” Once you’ve been here, it’s hard to argue otherwise. This well-maintained planned community has it all: shopping, golf, beachfront access, and above all, safe streets thanks to the courteous and professional service of the North Palm Beach Police Department.
41. Naples
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 26.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 7.8
The city of Naples is something of a millionaire magnet, and it caters to a more sophisticated set who can afford the six- and seven-figure price tags for homes. While it’s definitely a more upscale area, that doesn’t make it more vulnerable to crime. Naples reported 16 violent crimes in 2014, with zero murders and eight robberies. On the burglary side, 86 incidents were reported.
42. Palm Bay
- Violent crime per 1,000: 5.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.5
- Property crime per 1,000: 21.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 8.0
Palm Bay, an innovator where industry is concerned, is home to several major corporations. The availability of jobs has helped the population increase to more than 105,000 residents and counting. Tourism is the lynchpin of the economy, and it’s up to the Palm Bay Police Department to ensure visitors have a safe experience while they’re in town.
43. Palm Beach Gardens
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.5
- Property crime per 1,000: 28.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 8.6
Palm Beach Gardens has a lot of nicknames, including “The Golf Capital of the World,” but for the people who live here, it’s simply known as home sweet home. To make sure life here stays sunny, the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department works around the clock to promote public safety. Officers routinely partner with citizens to keep crime well in hand.
44. Atlantic Beach
- Violent crime per 1,000: 3.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 1.0
- Property crime per 1,000: 24.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 5.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 8.6
The skies are blue and the water is warm in Atlantic Beach, one of several communities included in the Jacksonville Beach area. When the weather heats up, the Atlantic Beach police go the extra mile to put a deep freeze on crime. In 2014, the city reported 47 violent crimes and 315 property crimes. The number of robberies and burglaries was much lower, at 13 and 70 respectively.
45. Hialeah
- Violent crime per 1,000: 3.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 1.1
- Property crime per 1,000: 27.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 8.8
Hialeah is the largest city to be included in our rankings, with a population of over 235,000 residents. There’s a well-defined family dynamic here, and the local schools have been recognized for excellence on a national level. You have all of the amenities you’d expect in a city of this size, including a dedicated police force that wholeheartedly embraces the task of keeping citizens safe and sound.
46. West Melbourne
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.3
- Property crime per 1,000: 30.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 8.9
If you’re interested in creating a new horizon for yourself or your family, West Melbourne is the place to do it. The city is close to the beach if you want to catch some waves but far enough away to make housing costs reasonable. Lake Washington is only a short drive if you want to go fishing. In terms of safety, it’s one of the Palm Bay area’s most desirable places to call home.
47. Sweetwater
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 31.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 8.9
Just under 21,000 people live in Sweetwater, and they share in the sense of safety that envelopes the city. The Sweetwater Police Department is a big help in making residents feel secure through programs like Crime Watch and the Home Alone Project. Reserve officers support the patrol, detective, SWAT, motorcycle and K-9 units in preventing crime in the city.
48. Seminole
- Violent crime per 1,000: 3.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.7
- Property crime per 1,000: 28.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 3.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 8.9
Part of the Tampa Bay area, Seminole offers an easy-going environment where crime isn’t a regular feature of residents’ daily lives. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Offices assumes law enforcement duties for the city’s 18,000 residents. In 2014, deputies handled 64 violent crime reports, including 13 robberies and no murders.
49. Maitland
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime per 1,000: 26.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 8.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 9.1
History and the arts are widely celebrated in Maitland, and the city features several museums and landmarks dedicated to both. A leisurely outing to see the sights can be undertaken in safety thanks to the Maitland Police Department. If you’re spending the day on one of the area’s many lakes, rest assured that the department’s Boat Patrol is keeping a watchful eye out for crime.
50. Clermont
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime per 1,000: 29.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 4.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 9.1
Clermont is sandwiched between Lake Minneola and Lake Minnehaha and it features a strong tourist trade as a result. The city’s commercial side has expanded in recent years, with new shops and restaurants moving in. That’s been great news for the economy and fortunately, Clermont’s growth hasn’t triggered an uptick in criminal activity.
Doris Bloodsworth, APR, Communications Director, Clermont
Conclusion
Based on the crime data, any of the cities in our rankings would be an excellent choice if you’re looking for a safe place to put down roots. If there was a city you were hoping to see included, we should point out that not every city shares its crime data with the FBI (and so would not have been included in our analysis). For more on staying safe, check out CreditDonkey’s library of home security tips and reviews.
The Top 50 Safest Cities in Florida
| Rank | City | Population | Total # of Violent Crimes1 | Total # of Property Crimes2 | Violent Crime Per 1,000 | Robbery Per 1,000 | Property Crime Per 1,000 | Burglary Per 1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Weston | 69,129 | 45 | 380 | 0.7 | 0.1 | 5.5 | 0.9 |
| 2 | Parkland | 27,164 | 7 | 173 | 0.3 | 0.1 | 6.4 | 1.1 |
| 3 | Marco Island | 17,343 | 5 | 118 | 0.3 | 0.1 | 6.8 | 1.2 |
| 4 | Winter Springs | 34,021 | 63 | 369 | 1.9 | 0.1 | 10.8 | 2.1 |
| 5 | Cooper City | 35,676 | 42 | 440 | 1.2 | 0.3 | 12.3 | 1.9 |
| 6 | Niceville | 14,407 | 15 | 175 | 1.0 | 0.1 | 12.1 | 3.5 |
| 7 | Key Biscayne | 12,946 | 2 | 210 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 16.2 | 0.6 |
| 8 | Oviedo | 37,467 | 56 | 461 | 1.5 | 0.1 | 12.3 | 3.3 |
| 9 | Lady Lake | 14,323 | 26 | 192 | 1.8 | 0.1 | 13.4 | 2.7 |
| 10 | Satellite Beach | 10,384 | 12 | 136 | 1.2 | 0.4 | 13.1 | 4.0 |
| 11 | Port St. Lucie | 172,453 | 243 | 2498 | 1.4 | 0.2 | 14.5 | 3.0 |
| 12 | Punta Gorda | 17,305 | 8 | 287 | 0.5 | 0.2 | 16.6 | 2.3 |
| 13 | North Port | 59,668 | 103 | 892 | 1.7 | 0.2 | 14.9 | 3.0 |
| 14 | Sunny Isles Beach | 21,931 | 30 | 420 | 1.4 | 0.5 | 19.2 | 1.5 |
| 15 | Margate | 55,982 | 126 | 901 | 2.3 | 0.7 | 16.1 | 4.0 |
| 16 | Jupiter | 59,039 | 126 | 1049 | 2.1 | 0.7 | 17.8 | 2.8 |
| 17 | Safety Harbor | 17,204 | 38 | 303 | 2.2 | 0.2 | 17.6 | 3.7 |
| 18 | Port Orange | 57,359 | 32 | 1136 | 0.6 | 0.1 | 19.8 | 3.6 |
| 19 | Venice | 21,378 | 40 | 396 | 1.9 | 0.2 | 18.5 | 3.5 |
| 20 | Coral Springs | 127,939 | 203 | 2481 | 1.6 | 0.4 | 19.4 | 2.8 |
| 21 | Lighthouse Point | 10,943 | 10 | 215 | 0.9 | 0.4 | 19.6 | 3.7 |
| 22 | Edgewater | 20,986 | 43 | 393 | 2.0 | 0.2 | 18.7 | 4.1 |
| 23 | Cape Coral | 168,712 | 242 | 3271 | 1.4 | 0.2 | 19.4 | 4.0 |
| 24 | Sebastian | 22,889 | 39 | 463 | 1.7 | 0.0 | 20.2 | 3.4 |
| 25 | Wellington | 61,069 | 102 | 1210 | 1.7 | 0.5 | 19.8 | 3.5 |
| 26 | Miami Lakes | 30,854 | 21 | 667 | 0.7 | 0.2 | 21.6 | 3.1 |
| 27 | Rockledge | 25,785 | 54 | 507 | 2.1 | 0.3 | 19.7 | 4.0 |
| 28 | Minneola | 10,183 | 24 | 181 | 2.4 | 0.3 | 17.8 | 5.7 |
| 29 | Dunedin | 35,779 | 96 | 698 | 2.7 | 0.5 | 19.5 | 3.7 |
| 30 | Lake Mary | 15,067 | 31 | 295 | 2.1 | 0.3 | 19.6 | 5.3 |
| 31 | St. Cloud | 42,113 | 137 | 864 | 3.3 | 0.4 | 20.5 | 3.9 |
| 32 | Coconut Creek | 57,766 | 85 | 1268 | 1.5 | 0.4 | 22.0 | 4.3 |
| 33 | Pembroke Pines | 164,372 | 277 | 3775 | 1.7 | 0.6 | 23.0 | 3.5 |
| 34 | Tamarac | 63,796 | 177 | 1255 | 2.8 | 0.8 | 19.7 | 5.7 |
| 35 | Boca Raton | 90,496 | 167 | 2066 | 1.8 | 0.6 | 22.8 | 3.8 |
| 36 | Lynn Haven | 19,565 | 50 | 487 | 2.6 | 0.1 | 24.9 | 2.1 |
| 37 | Royal Palm Beach | 36,846 | 99 | 885 | 2.7 | 0.4 | 24.0 | 2.6 |
| 38 | Miramar | 132,352 | 417 | 2750 | 3.2 | 1.0 | 20.8 | 5.5 |
| 39 | Fernandina Beach | 12,062 | 34 | 274 | 2.8 | 0.5 | 22.7 | 4.9 |
| 40 | North Palm Beach | 12,428 | 19 | 288 | 1.5 | 0.4 | 23.2 | 6.0 |
| 41 | Naples | 20,779 | 16 | 541 | 0.8 | 0.4 | 26.0 | 4.1 |
| 42 | Palm Bay | 105,287 | 600 | 2226 | 5.7 | 0.5 | 21.1 | 4.5 |
| 43 | Palm Beach Gardens | 51,210 | 76 | 1447 | 1.5 | 0.5 | 28.3 | 4.0 |
| 44 | Atlantic Beach | 12,955 | 47 | 315 | 3.6 | 1.0 | 24.3 | 5.4 |
| 45 | Hialeah | 235,446 | 782 | 6536 | 3.3 | 1.1 | 27.8 | 3.1 |
| 46 | West Melbourne | 19,988 | 45 | 608 | 2.3 | 0.3 | 30.4 | 2.6 |
| 47 | Sweetwater | 20,719 | 48 | 642 | 2.3 | 0.2 | 31.0 | 1.9 |
| 48 | Seminole | 18,009 | 64 | 504 | 3.6 | 0.7 | 28.0 | 3.2 |
| 49 | Maitland | 16,643 | 31 | 433 | 1.9 | 0.2 | 26.0 | 8.3 |
| 50 | Clermont | 30,337 | 68 | 882 | 2.2 | 0.4 | 29.1 | 4.8 |
2Property crime includes burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
Rebecca Lake is a journalist at CreditDonkey, a home security comparison and reviews website. Write to Rebecca Lake at rebecca@creditdonkey.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for our latest posts.
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