Top 10 Safest Cities in North Carolina (2025) | Live Smart, Buy Safe

Want to know where it’s actually safe to live in North Carolina in 2025? You’re in the right place.

Whether you're a parent, retiree, remote worker, or digital nomad, this data-backed guide helps you answer the one question that matters:

👉 “Where in North Carolina can I live safely, affordably, and with long-term peace of mind?”

Based on 2025 FBI crime stats, local police reports, and housing data, we reveal the top 10 safest cities in NC — plus hidden towns, affordable neighborhoods, and even safe beach zones most blogs miss.

Here’s what this guide covers:

• Safest cities in NC with crime rates under 1 per 1,000 residents

• Best places to live in North Carolina for families, retirees & investors

• AI-safe cities: low crime, strong schools, high resale value

• Bonus: How to get up to 75% of your buyer agent commission back when you buy smart with reAlpha

Let’s help you live safer, buy smarter, and thrive in 2025.

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Morrisville takes the #1 spot, with 0.42 crimes per 1,000 people. It’s safe, tech-forward, and growing fast.

Top challengers: Davidson, Wake Forest, and Holly Springs.

Morrisville ranks as the safest city in North Carolina, with a crime rate of just 0.42 per 1,000 residents. Thanks to its location near the Research Triangle Park, it's a magnet for tech professionals, families, and investors alike. Homes appreciate fast here — and so does your peace of mind.

Why it wins:

• Top-tier schools and parks
• Strong resale value
• Diverse, upwardly mobile population

Wake Forest combines colonial-era architecture with one of the lowest property crime rates in the state. It offers small-town feel with modern amenities, making it ideal for those fleeing urban noise but still needing strong job access.

Why it wins:

• Excellent for retirees and remote workers
• Active neighborhood watch programs
• Home prices rising steadily without volatility

Davidson is home to its namesake college and known for civic involvement and historic preservation. Its crime rate remains well below state average, and it offers one of the best downtown walking districts in NC.

Why it wins:

• High walkability and low crime
• Cultural activities and stable real estate
• Great for first-time homebuyers and professors

Holly Springs is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the state, but it hasn’t sacrificed safety. With proactive policing and a young, family-oriented population, crime is on a long-term decline.

Why it wins:

• Median age under 40 = energetic communit
• School districts ranked top 10 in the state
• New home builds with smart infrastructure

Cary is among the most affluent suburbs in NC and is consistently ranked for safety, school performance, and quality of life. It's a favorite among tech transplants from New York, New Jersey, and California.

Why it wins:

• Over 30 parks and greenways
• Top public schools and health systems
• Strong long-term rental demand

Also explore: Top Affordable NJ Cities Near NYC

Golf, serenity, and low violent crime define Pinehurst. This town has one of the highest senior satisfaction rates in North Carolina, with low taxes and medical access rounding out its appeal.

Why it wins:

• Ideal for downsizing or second homes
• Scenic and quiet neighborhoods
• Low cost of living + high safety index

Also explore: Safest Places to Live in Florida

Apex has grown into a safety-first suburban escape with top marks in livability. The town is ideal for those priced out of Cary but wanting the same lifestyle perks.

Why it wins:

• Low property crime
• High-performing elementary and middle schools
• Historic downtown + suburban development

Despite being the state capital and one of its largest cities, Raleigh maintains a relatively low violent crime rate compared to national averages. It also has a booming tech economy, making it a safe place to grow wealth.

Why it wins:

• Safer than Charlotte and Fayetteville
• Ideal for renters and remote workers
• Downtown revitalization = growing equity

Compare metros: Rent or Buy in Florida?

With UNC anchoring its economy, Chapel Hill benefits from a highly educated, safety-conscious community. It’s ideal for academics, professionals, and families wanting culture without chaos.

Why it wins:

• Low crime near schools and university
• Excellent healthcare access
• Attractive long-term investment homes

Read next: Safest Places to Live in Georgia

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville balances safety with natural beauty and a strong community vibe. Property crime is higher in tourist zones, but residential neighborhoods rank safe and serene.

Why it wins:

• Perfect for creatives and nature lovers
• Home values rising due to remote work surge
• Strong Airbnb demand for second homes

See more like this: Best Places to Buy a Beach House in North Carolina

Find the Perfect Mortgage in North Carolina with Be My Neighbor.

Compare options, calculate payments, and get expert guidance—all in one place.

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When deciding where to live in North Carolina, safety varies massively between suburbs and major cities.

So if you’re wondering:

“Is it safer to live in a suburb like Cary, or a big city like Charlotte?”

You’re not alone — and the data’s clear.

Here’s the real breakdown of crime rates, affordability, commute stress, and resale value between suburbs vs cities across NC.

According to FBI and local police data, suburbs like Morrisville, Apex, and Wake Forest have violent crime rates under 0.5 per 1,000 — making them safer than 90% of North Carolina cities.

Meanwhile, urban cores in cities like Charlotte, Wilmington, and Fayetteville report crime 3–5X higher, especially in renter-heavy ZIPs.

• Morrisville, NC – crime rate: 0.42/1,000 (lowest in the state)

• Cary, NC – consistent top performer in both safety & schools

• Holly Springs, NC – one of NC’s safest places for young families

• Huntersville, NC – safest suburb near Charlotte, NC

• Wake Forest, NC – safe, historic, and still growing fast

If you're searching "best places to live in North Carolina for families", the suburbs win — hands down.

Suburbs offer:

• Top-tier public schools

• Faster emergency response times

• Quiet neighborhoods & parks

• Low turnover = tighter community bonds

Pro Tip: Most homebuyers start with cities like Raleigh or Charlotte — but end up buying in suburbs like Apex or Davidson once they compare crime maps and school ratings.

Raleigh has grown fast, and so have its surrounding suburbs.

So here’s the no-fluff answer:

The safest places to live near Raleigh in 2025 are:

• Morrisville

• Cary

• Apex

• Holly Springs

• Wake Forest

Yes — but it depends where.

Raleigh is one of the safest major cities in North Carolina, with violent crime 42% lower than Charlotte. However, safety varies widely by ZIP code.

Here’s what to know:

Is Raleigh NC safe in 2025?

Raleigh is safer than most U.S. cities of its size, but areas like Downtown and Southeast Raleigh show higher crime rates. Safer alternatives include Cary, Morrisville, and Apex.

What is the safest place near Raleigh, North Carolina?

Morrisville tops the list — with the lowest crime rate in the state, high walkability, excellent schools, and tech-driven neighborhoods.

Is it safer to live in Cary or Raleigh?

Statistically, Cary is safer. It has a lower crime rate, top-rated schools, and higher homeownership rates—making it ideal for families and professionals.

Short answer? Yes.

Long answer? They’re not just safer—they’re smarter for long-term peace of mind.

Most small towns in North Carolina report:

• 30% to 60% lower crime rates than major metros

• Faster police response times

• Higher owner-occupancy = tighter community

• Lower transient population = less crime fluctuation

• Lower stress = longer-term residents and stability

Are small towns in North Carolina safer than cities?

Yes. According to 2025 FBI data, small towns like Pinehurst, Davidson, and Edenton report significantly lower violent and property crime than cities like Charlotte or Durham.

What are the safest small towns to live in North Carolina?

Top-rated safe towns include:

• Forest City

• New Bern

• Pinehurst

• Edenton

• Davidson

• Burnsville

Each has violent crime rates under 1 per 1,000, with active community watch programs and strong school systems.

Note: Cities like Cary, Apex, and Huntersville are also highly ranked for both property and violent crime safety, but these 7 lead specifically in theft + burglary prevention.

Which NC cities have the lowest property crime?

According to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data, Morrisville, Davidson, and Pinehurst have the lowest property crime rates in North Carolina in 2025—each under 0.7 incidents per 1,000 residents.

What’s the difference between property and violent crime?

Property crime includes burglary, theft, car break-ins, and vandalism. Violent crime includes assault, robbery, and homicide. Suburbs and towns often score lower in both.

Is Davidson, NC a safe place to buy a home?

Yes. Davidson has one of NC’s lowest theft and break-in rates, top-rated schools, and steady home value appreciation—making it ideal for buyers seeking both safety and ROI.

Want to know how to find the safest city to live in North Carolina? Here's a step-by-step framework that works whether you're relocating, retiring, or investing:

Use:

• FBI Uniform Crime Reports

• Local police dashboards (by ZIP code)

• Sites like CrimeGrade.org and NeighborhoodScout

Look for:

• Violent crime under 1 per 1,000 residents

• Property crime under 2 per 1,000

• Spot trends (e.g., rising or falling YOY)

Search on:

• GreatSchools.org

• Niche.com

• County websites

Why this matters:

Safe cities often have high-performing schools, well-funded parks, libraries, and hospitals.

Look for:

• Well-maintained sidewalks

• Parks with people present

• Clean streets and signage

• Active local businesses and churches

Avoid areas with:

• Boarded-up buildings

• Graffiti

• Empty lots and high fencing

Join groups like:

• r/northcarolina

• “Moving to NC” Facebook Groups

• Local Nextdoor communities

Ask locals:

• “What’s the safest area to buy a home in ___?”

• “What’s your experience living in [City Name]?”

• Real people = real insight.

Contact local county websites to find:

• Police response times

• Number of fire stations and EMS units per square mile

• 911 call center reviews

Fast emergency response = life-saving, home-protecting, and insurance-lowering.

Still debating whether to live in a small town or a big city in North Carolina?

You’re not alone. Many homebuyers ask:

“Is it better to live in a small town or city in NC?”

“Which is safer for families — small towns or cities in North Carolina?”

“Where do I get the most value — big metro or peaceful suburb?”

The answer depends on your lifestyle, budget, and goals — but safety stats and buyer behavior tell a clear story.

• Small towns are best if you want peace, safety, affordability, and long-term community.

• Cities are better if you want career access, culture, and faster appreciation — but only in the right ZIPs.

If you’re thinking:

“Should I buy a home in Cary, Apex, or Wake Forest?”

“Are NC suburbs worth the price for safety?”

“Is buying in a safe area really an investment?”

Let’s be clear:

Safe suburbs aren’t just peaceful — they’re profitable.

In 2025, buying in a low-crime suburb is one of the smartest ways to build wealth while living well.

Here’s what the data shows:

Benefit	Why It Pays Off
✅ Lower Insurance Premiums	Safer ZIP = cheaper home + car insurance
✅ Higher School Ratings	Drives buyer demand = better resale value
✅ Less Property Crime Risk	Reduces repair costs + stress
✅ Steady Appreciation	Fewer price crashes in market downturns
✅ Higher Renter Quality	Safer areas = stronger rental yields
✅ Peace of Mind	Hard to quantify, but life-changing

Top Safe Suburbs to Buy Property in NC (2025)

• Morrisville, NC – crime rate: 0.42/1,000, RTP job access

• Cary, NC – top schools + rapid home equity growth

• Wake Forest, NC – historic charm + modern safety

• Holly Springs, NC – young families + rising values

• Huntersville, NC – Charlotte suburb with low crime + big upside

These suburbs are ranked safer than 90% of NC ZIP codes — and each has outperformed the state average in home price appreciation over the past 3 years.

Why Morrisville, NC Tops Every Safety List in 2025

If you’ve searched:

“What is the safest city in North Carolina?”

“Is Morrisville NC a good place to live?”

“How safe is Morrisville NC for families?”

Here’s your answer — backed by data and buyer behavior:

Morrisville is the safest city in North Carolina in 2025.

With a crime rate of just 0.42 per 1,000 residents, Morrisville ranks safer than 99.8% of cities in the U.S., according to 2025 FBI data.

Why Morrisville Leads in Safety (and Wealth Building)

Factor	Morrisville’s Edge
Violent Crime	Among the lowest in NC (0.09 per 1,000)
Property Crime	Minimal — strong HOA + police presence
Schools	Top-ranked Wake County public schools
Job Access	10 minutes from Research Triangle Park (RTP)
Demographics	Highly educated, dual-income households
Home Value Growth	Appreciation up 17% YOY in safe neighborhoods
Diversity & Community	One of NC’s most inclusive, family-friendly towns

Buyer Insight:

• Morrisville’s housing market is competitive — because people don’t want to leave.

• Homeowners stay longer, which = low turnover, low crime, and high resale value.

• reAlpha buyers can even unlock a 75% commission rebate when buying in Morrisville through bundled services.

Understanding North Carolina’s Crime Rate in 2025

Before you decide where to live, invest, or raise a family, you’ve probably wondered:

“Is North Carolina a safe state?”

“How does NC compare to the rest of the U.S. in crime rates?”

“What’s the safest city in NC in 2025?”

Let’s break it down with real numbers — and the insight buyers actually need.

North Carolina Crime Rate Snapshot (2025 FBI + State Data)

Crime Type	NC Statewide Avg (2025)	National Avg (2025)	Trend
Violent Crime	3.7 per 1,000 people	4.2 per 1,000	⬇️ -12% YoY
Property Crime	15.1 per 1,000 people	16.7 per 1,000	⬇️ -9.8% YoY
Murder Rate	3.5 per 100K	5.4 per 100K	⬇️ -22.7% from 2024
Safest City (Morrisville)	0.42 per 1,000	—	🚨 90%+ safer than NC avg

• North Carolina ranks safer than 27 other U.S. states for violent crime in 2025.

• Most crime is concentrated in select metro ZIP codes, not statewide.

What This Means for Buyers

• Don’t judge NC by headlines from urban centers.

• Many towns rank among the safest in the U.S., with lower crime than cities in states like California, Texas, or Georgia.

Is It Safe to Live in These Trending NC Cities? (2025 Safety Review)

Thinking of moving to Charlotte, Wilmington, Asheville, or Huntersville?

These cities are popular, but popularity doesn’t always mean safety. Here's how they actually rank in 2025 when it comes to violent crime, property risk, and smart homebuying.

Is Charlotte, NC Safe to Live In?

Short answer: Some parts — yes. Others? Not so much.

Stat	Data
Total Crime Rate	4.6 per 1,000
Hotspots	Uptown, West Charlotte, Eastland
Safer ZIPs	Ballantyne, SouthPark, Myers Park
Violent Crime	3.1 per 1,000 (above state average)

Best for: Tech professionals near South End or Ballantyne

Caution: High rental turnover = higher crime in certain ZIPs

Buyer Tip: If you love Charlotte’s energy but want peace of mind, Huntersville or Matthews offer much safer alternatives nearby.

Is Wilmington, NC Safe in 2025?

Yes — but only in specific neighborhoods.

Stat	Data
Overall Crime	4.4 per 1,000
Safer Areas	Ogden, Masonboro, Pine Valley
Risk Zones	Downtown, near Cape Fear Bridge
Key Factor	Property crime is the main concern (break-ins, car theft)

Best for: Beach lovers, digital nomads, remote retirees

Watch for: Tourist season spikes + flood zones

Check: Local flood maps + crime heatmaps before buying in coastal ZIPs

Is Asheville, NC Still Safe to Live?

Yes — if you avoid the tourist core.

Stat	Data
Total Crime Rate	3.6 per 1,000
Safer Areas	North Asheville, Kenilworth, Haw Creek
Risk Areas	Downtown (bars, tourism hubs)
Trend	Property crime drops in local residential zones

Best for: Artists, remote workers, nature-first living

Tip: Avoid downtown for long-term stays or buying with kids

Did you know? Asheville homes outside tourist zones outperform in long-term stability + Airbnb safety ratings.

Is Huntersville, NC Safe for Families & Investors?

Absolutely. It’s Charlotte’s safest suburb in 2025.

Stat	Data
Total Crime	0.79 per 1,000
School Ratings	A/A+
Community Features	HOA-protected zones, new-build neighborhoods
Commute	20–30 mins to Uptown Charlotte

Best for: Families, first-time buyers, high-ROI rentals

Bonus: Home values rising faster than many parts of South Charlotte

Strategy: Get Charlotte energy without the crime — buy in Huntersville, then ride the appreciation wave.

Natural Disaster Risks in North Carolina — Should You Worry?

Here’s how natural disasters impact safety and real estate value in North Carolina (and where to avoid risk):

Disaster Type	Risk Level	Notes
Hurricanes	🌊 Moderate to High (East NC)	Coastal towns like Wilmington, Morehead City face annual storm threats.
Tornadoes	🌪️ Low to Moderate (Central NC)	Rare touchdowns near Raleigh, with frequent watches in spring/summer.
Flooding	🚧 Medium in coastal plains	FEMA flood zones exist near riverfront & low elevation areas.
Wildfires & Earthquakes	🔥 Minimal	Very low risk statewide.

Natural disaster resilience = long-term home value.

Fewer insurance claims. Lower premiums. Less stress.

Safest Small Towns in North Carolina (Murphy, Sparta & More)

Murphy and Sparta are 2025’s small-town standouts — combining crime rates under 1 per 1,000 residents with long-term community stability.

Small towns in NC tend to have 30–60% lower crime rates than major metros and offer a slower pace of life that fosters stronger community bonds. These towns also avoid the price volatility seen in urban hot spots, making them appealing for both peace of mind and property value stability.

Town	Why It’s Safe	Ideal Buyer
Murphy, NC	Tucked in the Blue Ridge foothills, Murphy has low traffic, a strong neighborhood watch culture, and violent crime well under the state average.	Retirees seeking quiet or remote workers wanting nature without isolation
Sparta, NC	With fewer thefts and break-ins than 90% of NC towns, Sparta offers stable pricing, scenic mountain views, and a welcoming small-town feel.	First-time buyers and those seeking affordable second homes
Reidsville, NC	Known for affordability and recent downtown revitalization, Reidsville maintains lower-than-average crime and rising homeownership rates.	Budget-minded families and value investors
Eden, NC	Near Greensboro yet distinctly suburban, Eden combines safe streets with access to major amenities and jobs.	Commuters who want a safe, affordable base

Buyer Insight: In 2025, homes in towns like Murphy and Sparta appreciate steadily without the bidding-war chaos of bigger markets. This stability makes them ideal for buyers prioritizing safety, affordability, and low stress.

Find the Perfect Mortgage in North Carolina with Be My Neighbor.

Compare options, calculate payments, and get expert guidance—all in one place.

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Is Raleigh, NC Safe in 2025? (ZIP-Level Data Buyers Need)

Raleigh is safer than most large US cities, but safety depends heavily on ZIP code — and that should guide where you buy

Area	Safety Snapshot	Buyer Notes
North Raleigh (27615)	Very safe	Family-oriented, low property crime, high owner-occupancy
Downtown (27601)	Moderate	Higher petty crime; nightlife and events draw more transient activity
Southeast Raleigh	Lower	Some ZIPs see 2–3× the property crime of safer suburbs
Brier Creek / Glenwood	Safe + growing	Popular with tech professionals; newer construction and active HOAs

Pro Tip: If you like Raleigh’s urban perks but want the security of lower crime stats, look to nearby suburbs like Cary, Morrisville, Apex, or Holly Springs - all with violent crime under 1 per 1,000.

Is Cary Safer Than Raleigh? (2025 Comparison)

Yes - Cary is statistically safer than Raleigh in both violent and property crime, making it one of North Carolina’s top picks for families and professionals.

Why Cary Wins:

• Lower crime rate than Raleigh year-over-year
• Top-ranked schools and over 30 parks for recreation
• High homeownership rates that strengthen community bonds
• Strong civic engagement and active neighborhood associations

For buyers deciding between Cary vs Raleigh, Cary offers a more predictable environment for both living and investing - though at a slightly higher entry price.

Pros and Cons of Buying in Cary vs Apex

If you’re narrowing your search to Cary and Apex, here’s how they stack up in 2025:

Pros of Cary:

• Consistently lower crime stats than state and national averages
• Elite public schools and abundant green spaces
• Proven record of rapid equity growth in safe ZIP codes

Cons of Cary:

• Higher median home price than Apex
• Competitive bidding in popular neighborhoods

Pros of Apex:

• Safety levels comparable to Cary
• Better value for money and more options for first-time buyers
• Charming historic downtown blended with modern amenities

Cons of Apex:

• Slightly longer commute to Raleigh’s core

• Limited housing inventory in top-rated school zones

Safest Beach Cities in North Carolina (2025 Coastal Safety Guide)

Ogden and Masonboro top the list of safest coastal communities in NC - but buyers should also check FEMA flood maps before making an offer.

Crime isn’t the only factor. Coastal buyers also weigh hurricane exposure, flood risk, and property value stability.

Top Coastal Safety Picks:

• Ogden: A residential enclave near Wilmington with low property crime, good schools, and year-round livability.
• Masonboro: Quiet, family-friendly, and close to beach access without the tourist congestion of downtown Wilmington.
• Pine Valley: High owner-occupancy rates keep neighborhoods stable, with property values appreciating steadily.

Buyer Tip: In safe coastal zones like Ogden and Masonboro, insurance premiums are often lower than in tourist-heavy districts - adding long-term value to your investment.

Ready to Buy Safe in North Carolina? Do It the Smart Way with reAlpha

You’ve found the safest cities — now make your move smarter.

With reAlpha, you get:

• Up to 75% of the buyer agent commission back

• Fast mortgage approvals in top-rated NC cities like Morrisville, Cary, and Davidson

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FAQ’s

What is the safest city to live in North Carolina in 2025?

Morrisville — with a crime rate of just 0.42 per 1,000, it ranks #1 in NC for safety.

Is North Carolina a safe state overall?

Yes. NC’s violent crime rate (3.7/1,000) is below the national average, and many suburbs report crime levels under 1 per 1,000.

Which North Carolina cities have the lowest crime?

Top low-crime cities include: Morrisville, Davidson, Wake Forest, Holly Springs, and Cary.

Are small towns in NC safer than big cities?

Yes — by 30–60%. Small towns often have higher homeownership and lower turnover, reducing crime naturally.

Is it safe to live in Charlotte or Raleigh?

Charlotte has higher crime in select ZIPs. Raleigh is safer overall, especially in areas like Brier Creek, North Raleigh, and Glenwood.

What’s the safest beach city in NC?

Ogden and Masonboro (near Wilmington) rank best for safety among coastal areas - just make sure to check FEMA flood maps.

How do I know if a neighborhood is safe before buying?

Check ZIP code crime stats, Reddit and Facebook local groups, school district ratings, and Google Maps for signs of community health.

Do safe cities get better mortgage deals?

Yes - homes in low-crime ZIPs typically get lower insurance premiums and hold value better, leading to safer, smarter mortgages.

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