Are you looking for the safest cities in North Carolina? Before moving to this great state, read this detailed article to know more.
North Carolina has something to offer everyone—from the sea to the mountains and from small towns to cities with close to a million residents. There are numerous reasons to move to North Carolina, but one of them is Forbes giving it the number one ranking on the Best States for Business list for several years in a row.
Below, you’ll find our list of the safest places to live in North Carolina, ranked by 2019 crime rates. Every city listed has its annual property (P) and violent (V) crime rate per 100,000 inhabitants presented next to it, while more detailed crime data is available in the text. You’ll also find some interesting information about each city, including population and median property value data.
Keep in mind that the state average for property crime is 2,357 reported crimes per 100,000 people and 372 for violent crime. The national average for property crime is 2,110, while the average number of violent crimes per 100,000 people is 379.
Part 1: The 12 Safest Cities in North Carolina
Holly Springs
(Property: 664; Violent: 65)
- Population: 40,050
- Median age: 35.5
- Median household income: $112,029
- Median house value: $306,200
As the name suggests, Holly Springs started as a settlement near a freshwater spring. By 1800, a village with a church, a general store, and multiple businesses formed there. Today, Holly Springs is one of the top 10 best places to live in North Carolina.
Holly Springs has 40,050 residents. Their median household income is $112,029, while the median age is 35.5 years. Buying a house has a median cost of $306,200.
This city mostly attracts young people, as it has restaurants, breweries, and other conveniences an average person needs for a comfortable life. The American Tobacco Trail also runs through the town, and it is open for cyclists, pedestrians, and all other non-motorized uses. What helps make Holly Springs one of the fastest-growing cities in North Carolina is the unemployment rate of just 3.7%.
The Holly Springs, NC crime rate is the city’s major upside. In 2019, there were only 256 property crimes (225 thefts, 22 burglaries, 9 vehicle thefts), and 25 violent crimes (16 assaults, 1 robbery, 7 rapes, 1 murder) reported in the city.
On the other hand, life isn’t perfect in Holly Springs; the cost of living is 7.7% above the national average. The investment in public education is $4,000 below the national average, and the population has increased by over 246.3% since 2000.
Pinehurst
(Property: 684; Violent: 67)
- Population: 17,224
- Median age: 59.4
- Median household income: $82,081
- Median house value: $288,000
Pinehurst might be the best place to retire in North Carolina, especially for golf enthusiasts. The village developed from what was imagined as a “health resort for people of modest means,” as described by the founder, James Walker Tufts. First named Tuftstown, Pinehurst got its first golf course in 1897. Since then, the historic Pinehurst Resort has hosted numerous prestigious golf tournaments.
Today, 17,224 people are living in Pinehurst. The median household income is $82,081, and the median age is 59.4. The median property value is $288,000. But apart from golf, what makes Pinehurst one of the best places to live in North Carolina?
Even though Pinehurst mostly attracts retired golf aficionados, people of all ages choose to live in this village permanently. History buffs can enjoy Tufts Archives, and for nature lovers, there’s the Sandhills Nature Preserve with miles of hiking trails.
However, the biggest reason why people move to Pinehurst is that it isn’t too far from having the lowest crime rate in North Carolina. In 2019, Pinehurst only had 113 property crimes (87 thefts, 22 burglaries, 4 vehicle thefts) and 11 violent crimes (6 assaults, 4 robberies, 1 murder).
The main downside of living in Pinehurst is that there’s not much to do unless you like golf and hiking. The town is hours away from major cities in the area, and it is not for those who like having the amenities of a big city at their disposal at all times.
Wake Forest
(Property: 852; Violent: 52)
- Population: 48,841
- Median age: 36.7
- Median household income: $92,210
- Median house value: $313,300
If you’re wondering, what is the safest small town in North Carolina? Then, you should check out Wake Forest. As the name suggests, this small town was once a forested area of 615 acres, purchased for $2,000 by the North Carolina Baptist Convention. They opened a Labor Institute that later grew into Wake Forest College. The college was moved to a bigger city in 1956, and the entire campus was then converted into a Baptist Theological Seminary.
The town has 48,841 residents today. The median household income is $92,210, the median age is 36.7 years, and the median home costs $313,300. Being one of the best places to live in North Carolina for families, Wake Forest has a lot to offer. With more than 110 acres, E. Carroll Joyner Park is there for your runs, hikes, and strolls through beautiful North Carolina nature. Additionally, there’s a farm-themed park for the kids and a wide selection of museums and breweries for the parents.
Those looking for work will find the low unemployment rate of just 3.9% a breath of fresh air, while the low crime rates make it one of the best towns in North Carolina. In 2019, 393 property crimes (344 thefts, 33 burglaries, 16 vehicle thefts) were reported, together with 24 violent crimes (16 assaults, 4 robberies, 3 rapes, 1 murder).
We have learned by now that cities with low unemployment rates, lots of amenities, and low crime rates come with a high cost of living. This applies to Wake Forest, where the cost of living is 9.5% higher than in most of the US. The cost of living is expected to keep rising, together with the city’s population, which has increased by 205.6% since 2000.
It’s just a matter of perspective whether Wake Forest is one of the worst or best places to live in NC.
Cary
(Property: 904; Violent: 66)
- Population: 174,762
- Median age: 59.9
- Median household income: $104,669
- Median house value: $370,600
Known as Bradford’s Ordinary during the 18th century, the transformation from a small village into a bustling town began for Cary when the railroad was constructed, linking it to a major transport network.
Where is it safe to live in North Carolina? Cary is definitely one of the answers. Today, 174,762 people live in Cary. The median household income in this large town is $104,669, the median age is 59.9 years, and homes are listed with the median price of $370,600.
Surrounded by gorgeous nature, lakes, and parks, Cary is the place to be for people with an active lifestyle. It is also the largest town on this list so far, which means that there are always things to do. Moreover, this town has a low unemployment rate, sitting at just 3.2%. When it comes to safety, the Cary, NC crime rate data shows that it is the safest town with a population of over 100,000 in the state.
Crime stats for 2019 show that there were 1,560 property crimes (1,298 thefts, 185 burglaries, 77 vehicle thefts) and 114 violent crimes (67 assaults, 34 robberies, 12 rapes, 1 murder) committed in Cary.
Having big-city amenities and being one of the safest towns in North Carolina comes with a price. The cost of living is 15% higher than the US average. Still, that doesn’t stop people from moving to Cary; the population has increased by 69% in less than 20 years.
Davidson
(Property: 917; Violent: 61)
- Population: 13,404
- Median age: 37.2
- Median household income: $124,853
- Median house value: $375,300
If you’re wondering, where is the best place to live in North Carolina? John Davidson tried to find it 300 years ago, moving his family to the area. The town of Davidson shows its appreciation for its founder in multiple ways, including naming a college after him. Davidson College elevates this town above similar railroad towns, making it the center of the region when it was established in 1837.
Davidson is home to 13,404 people, with a median household income of $124,853 and a median age of 37.2 years. Additionally, a median home costs $375,300.
Davidson is the safest place to live in North Carolina with the lowest unemployment rate of 2.8%. So, finding work in this town shouldn’t be too hard. Nature lovers will have plenty to do here; Fisher Farm and Davidson’s numerous parks are there to keep your Vitamin D levels high. Students joining Davidson College will have a blast on the historic campus, all while gaining an education from one of the top colleges in the country.
Being one of the safest places to live in North Carolina, crime in Davidson looked like this in 2019: 121 property crimes (94 thefts, 17 burglaries, 10 vehicle thefts) and 8 violent crimes (5 assaults, 1 robbery, 2 rapes) were reported. Thankfully, no murders were reported that year.
The downside of living in Davidson is the cost of living, which is 18.3% higher than the national average. Moreover, the town is becoming crowded, with a population increase of 72.6% since 2000, causing prices to go up.
Apex
(Property: 936; Violent: 94)
- Population: 70,182
- Median age: 37.1
- Median household income: $111,435
- Median house value: $351,800
The next item on our list is one of the best towns to live in North Carolina. Officially incorporated in 1873, Apex was once a tobacco farming community. Due to its proximity to the state capital, Apex quickly became an important trading hub for tobacco, lumber, and tar. During the 1960s, the focus switched from farming to technology.
There are 70,182 people living in Apex today. Their median household income is $111,435, while the median age is 37.1 years. Houses cost a median price of $351,800.
Apex Nature Park, the Farmers Market, several breweries, and an overall pleasant atmosphere have contributed to Apex being proclaimed the best place to live in North Carolina in 2015. The unemployment rate of just 3% also contributes to keeping Apex near the top of this list today.
Low crime rates are another major reason behind this city’s popularity. In 2019, the residents reported 527 property crimes (432 thefts, 79 burglaries, 16 vehicle thefts) and 53 violent crimes (37 assaults, 3 robberies, 13 rapes). Fortunately, no murders were reported that year.
Even though it’s considered one of the best places to raise a family in North Carolina, Apex has its downsides. Firstly, it is a crowded city. Its reputation has brought in a population increase of 127.1% since 2000, which led to inflated property prices and a cost of living that is 13.1% higher than the national average.
Fuquay-Varina
(Property: 952; Violent: 84)
- Population: 32,698
- Median age: 35.8
- Median household income: $79,000
- Median house value: $252,500
The next item on this list of safest cities in NC is actually composed of two towns that merged in 1963. Fuquay Springs and Varina joined to create a city whose popularity and population grew primarily due to the tobacco trade. The city’s proximity to the Research Triangle Park has opened up real estate development opportunities and created a new population boom.
32,698 people have chosen to live in Fuquay-Varina. The median household income in the city is $79,000, the median age is 35.8 years, and a median house costs around $252,500.
This town is one of the best places to visit in North Carolina as there are many things you can do here. Hiking and running trails, as well as picnic spots, can be found in Carroll Howard Johnson Park. It also has a historic mineral spring park. What makes people move to Fuquay-Varina permanently are the tolerable cost of living (only 1.6% above the national average), the low unemployment rate (4.4%), and the city’s safety.
Crime numbers for 2019 looked like this: 295 property crimes (234 thefts, 48 burglaries, 13 vehicle thefts) accompanied by 26 crimes that were violent (13 assaults, 10 robberies, 3 rapes) were reported during the year. That may look like a lot, but it’s relatively lower than the North Carolina crime rate.
However, there’s a catch. The city’s population has increased by 208.6% in the last 20 years, leading to an average one-way commute time of 31.4 minutes. Keep in mind that the national average is 26.4 minutes.
Morrisville
(Property: 1,316; Violent: 42)
- Population: 31,670
- Median age: 33.8
- Median household income: $101,738
- Median house value: $323,600
Named after Jeremiah Morris, who donated land for the railroad, Morrisville played a major role in the civil war. The largest Confederate force of the war was forced to surrender here while retreating towards Durham County. Morrisville’s days of cavalry fights are long gone; these days, it’s a tech city, with giants such as Lenovo having their headquarters here.
What are the safest counties in NC? Wake County, which Morrisville is a part of, is certainly one of them. Nowadays, Morrisville has 31,670 inhabitants. The town’s median household income is $101,738, while the median age is 33.8 years. Property prices have been on the rise lately, with the median value reaching $323,600.
Lake Crabtree and a county park with the same name are located on the outskirts of the town, offering boating, hiking, and biking for sports and nature enthusiasts. The Morrisville History Center is there for those interested in the city’s role in the Civil War. Morrisville is certainly one of the best places in North Carolina with the combination of fun things to do, the below-average unemployment rate (3.5%), and the fairly low crime rates.
379 property crimes (324 thefts, 39 burglaries, 16 vehicle thefts) and 12 violent ones (9 assaults, 2 robberies, 1 rape) were reported in 2019. Thankfully, no murders were reported that year.
Back in 2000, Morrisville had only 5,208 residents. Since then, the population has grown by more than 358.4%, causing an increase in real estate prices, creating crowds, and increasing commute times.
However, its average one-way commute time of 21.9 minutes is still lower than the national average. That said, if you’re looking for peaceful and quiet good places to live in North Carolina, moving to Morrisville might not be the way to go.
Huntersville
(Property: 1,764; Violent: 108)
- Population: 59,870
- Median age: 37.4
- Median household income: $102,016
- Median house value: $309,000
Located just 14 miles north of Charlotte, Huntersville is a place of great debate. Some residents think the town was named in honor of a minister named Rev. Humphrey Hunter. Another faction believes it was after a local cotton farmer, Robert Hunter.
Finally, a third group of residents believe their town is most likely named after Elizabeth and Travis Hunter, a local teacher and crossing guard pair who parented the first baby boy in what is now one of the safest places to live in North Carolina.
Huntersville is a city of 59,870 people, with a median household income of $102,016, a median age of 37.4, and a median home value of $309,000.
Those traveling to this town must visit Latta Place, a plantation house turned into a museum. It’s difficult to get bored in Huntersville, as there are so many things to do. Also, with an unemployment rate (3.4%) that’s relatively lower than the national average, Huntersville is considered one of the best places to work in North Carolina.
Another upside to living in Huntersville is its lower-than-average crime rate. In 2019, 948 property crimes (769 thefts, 114 burglaries, 65 vehicle thefts) and 79 instances of violent crime (51 assaults, 23 robberies, 4 rapes, 1 murder) were reported.
Huntersville has a cost of living that is 10.4 higher than the US average. However, this doesn’t stop people from flooding into town, as evident in the 113.6% increase in population since 2000.
Concord
(Property: 1,650; Violent: 122)
- Population: 100,639
- Median age: 36.8
- Median household income: $67,984
- Median house value: $203,500
Concord is the 10th largest city in North Carolina and one of the most interesting places for tourists. Initially inhabited by German and Irish immigrants, the city is part of the Charlotte metropolitan area. It is officially recognized as an “old town,” as it was incorporated in 1806.
There are 100,639 people currently living in Concord. The median household income in the city is $67,984, and the median age is 36.8. Homebuyers should prepare $203,500, according to median real estate prices.
What makes this one of the best cities in North Carolina for tourists is the fact that it’s home to the Charlotte Motor Speedway and Concord Mills, a 1.4-million-square-foot shopping mall.
On the other hand, tourists who prefer nature over rumbling engines and mall crowds have plenty of options, too. Additionally, Concord is a great place to live in, with an unemployment rate of just 5.3% and a cost of living that’s 6.7% below the national average.
In 2019, 1,586 property crimes (1,338 thefts, 149 burglaries, 99 vehicle thefts) and 117 violent crimes (84 assaults, 28 robberies, 1 rape, 4 murders) were reported, according to the Concord, NC crime rate.
The only thing that can be taken as a flaw in this city is the population increase of 56.5% over the last 20 years, which is still not as severe as most cities on this list.
Knightdale
(Property: 1,776; Violent: 229)
- Population: 18,761
- Median age: 36
- Median household income: $69,684
- Median house value: $205,000
Much like most of North Carolina, Knightdale started as a tobacco and cotton farming town. As evident in the unmarked grave plots throughout the city, Knightdale carries a shameful history of slave ownership. Today, these plots are an important part of the landscape of a place that is now deemed one of the best small towns to live in North Carolina.
Knightdale has a population of 18,761, a median household income of $69,684, and a median age of 36 years. Additionally, the median house value is $205,000.
This small town offers a fairly extensive list of amenities and close proximity to Raleigh, the second-largest city in NC. The town’s economy is looking good, with an unemployment rate of 4.7% and positive job growth over the last year. Also, with a cost of living that’s 5.3% lower than the national average, Knightdale is among the cheapest cities with the lowest crime rate in North Carolina.
Crime statistics show 326 property crimes (285 thefts, 23 burglaries, 18 vehicle thefts) and 42 violent crimes (23 assaults, 9 robberies, 10 rapes) reported in Knightdale in 2019. Fortunately, no murders were recorded that year.
It shouldn’t be surprising that this town’s population has increased by 141.1% since 2000. Knightdale had just 1,884 residents in 1990, and this rapid increase won’t slow down anytime soon. Despite being one of the best affordable places to live in North Carolina, it might not be the most peaceful town conducive to raising a family.
Clayton
(Property: 2,085; Violent: 168)
- Population: 28,843
- Median age: 34.4
- Median household income: $62,676
- Median house value: $219,500
Incorporated in 1869, Clayton was once known as Stallings Station, after Sarah Stallings, whose home served as a depot for the North Carolina Railroad. The Civil War had a heavy impact on the city, deteriorating its already crumbling economy and causing a high percentage of the population to move out.
Nowadays, it’s considered one of the best places to retire in North Carolina, with a low cost of living and a lower population than most other cities in the state.
The town’s population is estimated at 28,843. The median household income in the town is $62,676, and the median age is 34.4 years. You can buy a home in this town for the median price of $219,500.
This city appears to have it all. In fact, Clayton may represent the most compelling argument if you’re wondering, is North Carolina a good place to live? Clayton will keep you busy and entertain you with countless things to do, but what gets people to stay is the positive job growth, an unemployment rate of 3.4%, a cost of living that’s 4.2% below the US average, and exemplary crime rates.
The annual crime data for Clayton shows that 497 property (434 thefts, 49 burglaries, 14 vehicle thefts) and 40 violent crimes (24 assaults, 8 robberies, 7 rapes, 1 murder) were reported during 2019. We have yet to look into the North Carolina crime rate in 2020.
The only possible drawback to living in Clayton is that it attracts a lot of people. In 2000, Clayton was a town of fewer than 7,000 people. Since then, the population has increased by 176.9%. Even though some might enjoy the rumble of an expanding city, others might find it to be one of the worst places to live in North Carolina.
Part 2: The 8 Most Popular Cities in North Carolina Sorted by Crime Rate
Raleigh
(Property: 1,783; Violent: 256)
- Population: 483,579
- Median age: 33.6
- Median household income: $67,266
- Median house value: $273,900
Is Raleigh, NC safe? Despite being the state’s capital and second-largest city, Raleigh is relatively safe. The city was chosen as the state capital in 1788. It is also one of the first examples of a planned city in the US, with a grid pattern and a State Capitol at the center of the grid.
These days, 483,579 people are living in Raleigh. Its median household income is $67,266, the median age is 33.6 years, and the median house value is $273,900.
Raleigh is the best city in North Carolina for tourists, with so many places to visit, such as the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the State Capitol, and others. Those who decide to move here will find the unemployment rate of 4.1% an encouraging number.
In 2019, 8,520 property crimes (6,572 thefts, 1,200 burglaries, 748 vehicle thefts) and 1,222 violent crimes (731 assaults, 322 robberies, 164 rapes, 5 murders) were committed in the city. Although the Raleigh, NC crime rate seems high, the city’s violent crime rate is 33% lower than the national average, and its total crime rate is 18% lower.
The main negative side of living in Raleigh is its population growth rate. Since 2000, the population has increased by 62.8%. Particularly, the city has been gaining 70,000 new residents every 10 years ever since the 1990s.
Moreover, if you’re looking for the safest cities in North Carolina from hurricanes, you might want to think twice about moving to Raleigh.
Wilmington
(Property: 2,880; Violent: 608)
- Population: 126,000
- Median age: 36
- Median household income: $47,580
- Median house value: $230,500
Situated on the coast of the Atlantic, Wilmington has always been an important port. It was first settled by the English and became the main supply point for the Confederate forces. In 2003, the city was designated as a Coast Guard City. In 2014, the city’s riverfront was ranked the Best American Riverfront by USA Today readers.
Nowadays, 126,000 people live in Wilmington, who regard it as one of the best places to live in North Carolina near the beach, despite its flaws. The city’s median household income is $47,580, the median age sits at 36 years, and the median home price is $230,500.
Going to Wilmington and not seeing the Battleship North Carolina is like visiting Paris and never seeing the Eiffel Tower. Its historic downtown area should also be on your itinerary, as well as numerous other spots worth a visit. New residents will find comfort in knowing that the unemployment rate is 5.7%, and the cost of living is 2.5% lower than the US average. The city’s crime rates, however, are a whole different story.
The crime rate in Wilmington, NC for 2019 shows 3,593 property crimes (2,564 thefts, 771 burglaries, 258 vehicle thefts) and 759 violent crimes (551 assaults, 127 robberies, 74 rapes, 7 murders) reported.
Violence and crime are this city’s biggest flaws. The violent crime rate, which is over 60% above the state and national averages, easily outweighs all of the positives that Wilmington has to offer.
Jacksonville
(Property: 2,357; Violent: 372)
- Population: 71,758
- Median age: 23.1
- Median household income: $44,956
- Median house value: $135,500
The next item on the list is one of the best cities to live in North Carolina for beachgoers. Jacksonville was once a quaint lumber and tobacco town. Then, the US army decided that it would be the perfect spot for a military base. More than 700 families had to be relocated when the building began in 1941. From water pollution to land claim lawsuits, Jacksonville is a turbulent place.
The city has a population of 71,758 and a median household income of $44,956. The median age of 23.1 is among the youngest in the country, mainly due to the military presence. If you’re looking for affordable places to live in North Carolina, Jacksonville might just be the answer. Houses in the city can be bought for a median price of $135,500.
Because it’s situated on the New River and close to the Atlantic coast, water sports are the most common activity in Jacksonville. The city is fairly isolated from major centers, and yet, it’s considered one of the best places to retire in North Carolina near the beach. This is mostly due to the low cost of living (15.7% below the national average), even though the city’s median age suggests otherwise.
Crime data for Jacksonville have not yet been released yet, but estimates for 2019 show that there were 3,041 property crimes and 480 violent crimes reported.
Jacksonville’s unemployment rate is quite high at 11.2%. The economy is far from diverse, as the military is the only major employer in the area. On top of that, the Jacksonville, NC crime rate is another major point against moving to this city.
Fayetteville
(Property: 3,526; Violent: 875)
- Population: 213,475
- Median age: 30
- Median household income: $45,024
- Median house value: $103,500
Once a Scottish settlement and the state capital, Fayetteville is a city that relies on Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base for most of its employment needs. Multiple revitalization programs have brought the younger population to this part of North Carolina, even though it was always regarded as one of the best cities to retire in North Carolina.
There are 213,475 people living in Fayetteville, and their median household income is $45,024. The city’s median age is 30 years, while the median house listed for sale will cost you $103,500. The relatively low median home value in this city is the main advantage for those looking to move here. You’re unlikely to find cheaper houses in NC.
Moreover, the cost of living is 19.1% lower than the national average. The city doesn’t offer many recreational activities, but this is something that city officials are working hard on. The same applies to the economy of the city, which is primarily dependent on the military.
When it comes to the Fayetteville, NC crime rate, the numbers are far from impressive: 7,391 property crimes (5,641 thefts, 1,365 burglaries, 385 vehicle thefts) and 1,835 violent crimes (1,413 assaults, 281 robberies, 117 rapes, 24 murders) occurred in 2019.
Issues such as the crime rate and one-sided economy are only exacerbated by the unemployment rate of 9.1%, which is higher than the US average, and the overall lack of entertainment.
Greensboro
(Property: 3,689; Violent: 819)
- Population: 301,094
- Median age: 35.1
- Median household income: $48,964
- Median house value: $143,800
Despite being the third-largest city in terms of population, Greensboro remains among the affordable places to live in North Carolina. Greensboro honors Nathanael Greene, commander of the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War. The city has always relied on the textile industry, even as the 21st century began. Companies such as The North Face are based here.
The city has 301,094 occupants, with a median household income of $48,964, a median age of 35.1, and a median home price of $143,800.
Greensboro is a major freight and passenger hub, with four Amtrak trains stopping in the city every day. This means that getting to and from Greensboro is not a difficult task, and even a daily excursion can easily be arranged. Living here is not expensive, as the cost of living is 16.1% below the national average.
The Greensboro, NC crime rate tells us that it isn’t a particularly safe city. In 2019, 10,994 property crimes (7,792 thefts, 2,215 burglaries, 987 vehicle thefts) were reported, alongside 2,440 violent crimes (1,663 assaults, 621 robberies, 113 rapes, 43 murders).
In addition to increased crime rates, Greensboro has an unemployment rate of 6.1% and a declining industry. Nevertheless, the population is increasing at a steady pace of around 25% every 15 years.
Durham
(Property: 3,808; Violent: 730)
- Population: 287,865
- Median age: 33.9
- Median household income: $58,905
- Median house value: $231,400
Although Durham is not one of the safest cities in North Carolina, it’s a good city for students. It’s a part of the Research Triangle, with multiple prestigious universities located in it.
With a population of 287,865, Durham belongs to the top five most populated cities in North Carolina. The median household income is $58,905, the median age is 33.9 years, and a median home will run you $231,400.
Even though it’s one of the biggest cities in NC, Durham still has a college-town feel to it. Being the best city to live in North Carolina for students, Durham is home to Duke University and North Carolina Central University, both highly regarded institutions. Also, the city doesn’t lack museums, sights, and recreational areas. Those who decide to move here and look for a job will have an easier time finding one than in most of the US, as the unemployment rate is just 4.6%.
However, the Durham, NC crime rate does not make the city look too good. In 2019, 10,672 property crimes (7,942 thefts, 1,972 burglaries, 758 vehicle thefts) and 2,046 violent crimes (1,262 assaults, 626 robberies, 121 rapes, 37 murders) were reported.
Violence and crime are the most obvious setbacks to living in Durham, and this might be what discourages most people from moving to this otherwise beautiful city.
Charlotte
(Property: 3,926; Violent: 739)
- Population: 912,096
- Median age: 34.2
- Median household income: $62,817
- Median house value: $228,800
The next city on the list is one of the safest cities in North Carolina from natural disasters. It’s also the fastest-growing metro area in the US for 10 years in a row and one of the largest cities in North Carolina. Charlotte carries the name of a German princess in order to honor its European heritage. It is home to Bank of America, Wells Fargo (east coast operations), and sports teams such as the Hornets and the Panthers.
Charlotte is a city of 912,096 people despite not being the safest city in North Carolina. The median household income is $62,817, the median age is 34.2 years, and a median house costs $228,800.
Thousands of people visit Charlotte just for sporting events. NBA, NFL, AHL, USL, and NASCAR events are held in the city, providing entertainment for millions. On the other hand, visitors who are not into sports can still find other things to do. Charlotte has a diverse and developed economy, with an unemployment rate of 5% and a cost of living that’s 1.1% lower than the national average.
The Charlotte, NC crime rate is what turns most people away. In 2019, 37,070 property crimes (28,304 thefts, 5,426 burglaries, 3,340 vehicle thefts) and 6,982 violent crimes (4,587 assaults, 1,975 robberies, 317 rapes, 103 murders) were reported.
Regardless of the high crime rate, Charlotte still manages to attract new residents. Since 2000, the population has increased by nearly 400,000, or 52.7%, causing more issues, such as overcrowding, property value spikes, and more crime.
Asheville
(Property: 6,325; Violent: 742)
- Population: 93,350
- Median age: 39
- Median household income: $49,930
- Median house value: $286,900
Is North Carolina safe? We’d say probably not in this next city on the list. Asheville’s most prosperous times were the 1910s and 1920s when the president’s son bought land and became interested in developing the city further. It was the third biggest city in North Carolina, but its luck soon ran out. The city was severely affected by floods and hurricanes throughout the 20th century.
Nonetheless, this city of 93,350 people is still considered one of the best places to live in Western North Carolina. Also, the city’s median household income is $49,930, the median age is 39 years, and a median home costs $286,900.
Châteaus, forests, and gorgeous nature are what characterize Asheville. Those who like the outdoors will never get bored here. Moving here permanently without a job lined up won’t be an issue, as the unemployment rate is just 2.8%, way lower than the national average. However, the Asheville, NC crime rate might be a problem.
It shows the highest numbers on this list: 5,923 property crimes (4,552 thefts, 833 burglaries, 538 vehicle thefts), accompanied by 695 violent crimes (467 assaults, 163 robberies, 59 rapes, 6 murders) are numbers that a city with less than 100,000 inhabitants shouldn’t show.
Regardless of the high crime rate, the population of Asheville is constantly increasing. Since 2000, the number has gone up by 28.5%. The city is showing some progress in crime reduction, according to North Carolina crime statistics, so it might move up this list in a few years. However, at the moment, it is far from being considered safe.
Conclusion
Home to beautiful beaches, gorgeous mountains, and ski resorts, a land of contrast in every aspect, North Carolina is a place to be, rather than to seem (to be), as the state’s motto says.
From small towns with low pollution and low crime rates to busy cities with hundreds of thousands of people roaming the streets, there’s a place for everyone to be themselves.
Whether you’re looking for a place to retire to, raise a family in, or just go for a short vacation, we hope that this list of the safest cities in North Carolina comes in handy.
