Safest Places to Live in Virginia (2025 Guide)

Virginia isn't just beautiful—it’s surprisingly safe.

Whether you're worried about hurricanes, crime, or simply want a peaceful place to call home, this guide reveals the safest cities in Virginia for 2025. You’ll discover:

• Which cities have the lowest crime rates

• Where to live if you want to avoid hurricanes

• How to save up to $12,000 on your dream home

Read on to protect your peace—and your wallet.

Crime rates across these cities beat the national average, making Virginia a surprisingly secure state for families, retirees, and professionals alike.

Yes, Virginia remains one of the safest states to live in.

According to recent data, the average violent crime rate is just 2.1 per 1,000, well below the national average. Cities like Poquoson and Falls Church have rates under 1.0.

• Lower crime = higher property values
• Safety attracts long-term renters and buyers
• Ideal for families, military members, and remote workers

Want to compare safety across states? Check out Safest Places to Live in Georgia or Florida.

Living in Virginia comes with strong pros—and a few cons.

Here's what to weigh before relocating:

• Low crime in most suburban and rural area
• Strong job market and proximity to D.C.
• Beautiful seasons and outdoor recreation

• Hurricanes on the coast
• Some urban areas have higher crime pockets
• Winter storms in the Blue Ridge regions

Looking for a balance of safety + affordability? Explore Affordable Places in Georgia or Oregon.

Virginia’s top safe cities aren’t just low-crime—they’re lifestyle-ready.

Based on 2024 data, here are the most secure places to live, ranked by violent + property crime per 1,000 people—and optimized for families, professionals, and first-time buyers.

Low crime + high livability = Virginia Beach

As the largest city in the state, Virginia Beach offers big-city perks with small-town safety.

• Violent Crime: 1.3 per 1,000
• Property Crime: 12.3 per 1,000
• Why it's safe: Proactive policing, city-wide surveillance, and strong Neighborhood Watch

Local perks:

• Pristine beaches, parks, and bike trails
• Top-rated schools + safe neighborhoods
• Strong job market + family-friendly vibes

👉 Compare with Safest Places in North Carolina

Virginia’s hidden gem for peace of mind.

Poquoson ranks among the safest places in the entire U.S. with the lowest violent crime stats in the state.

• Violent Crime: 0.5 per 1,000
• Property Crime: 5.7 per 1,000
• Why it's safe: Tight-knit community, low theft, rapid police response

Community highlights:

• Waterfront homes and boating lifestyle
• High-scoring schools + youth programs
• Quiet, well-kept streets

Safe, smart, and scenic.

Home to Virginia Tech, Blacksburg is ideal for students, families, and professionals seeking balance.

• Violent Crime: 1.0 per 1,000
• Property Crime: 7.1 per 1,000
• Why it's safe: Campus-police partnership + community cohesion

Best for:

• Tech and education jobs
• Hikers and outdoor lovers
• Artsy, low-key lifestyle

👉 Also explore Affordable Cities in Colorado

History meets modern safety.

With two major universities, Lexington balances culture, community, and safety.

• Violent Crime: 0.8 per 1,000
• Property Crime: 6.5 per 1,000
• Why it's safe: Small population + high civic involvement

Great for:

• Retirees + families
• History buffs + tourists
• Slow-paced, community-driven lifestyle

Safe, suburban, and rising.

Leesburg is one of the fastest-growing and safest suburbs in Northern Virginia.

• Violent Crime: 1.1 per 1,000
• Property Crime: 8.2 per 1,000
• Why it's safe: High funding for police, community-led safety efforts

Why people move here:

• Proximity to D.C.
• Great schools + jobs
• Family neighborhoods + walkability

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Walkable, wealthy, and well-guarded.

Falls Church ranks at the top for education, income, and safety metrics.

• Violent Crime: 0.7 per 1,000
• Property Crime: 5.9 per 1,000
• Why it's safe: High public investment in safety, low-density living

Top features:

• Award-winning public schools
• Commuter-friendly with low stress
• Strong local economy + green spaces

City safety with suburban price tags.

Manassas Park offers a rare combo: affordable homes near metros and a low crime rate.

• Violent Crime: 0.9 per 1,000
• Property Crime: 7.3 per 1,000
• Why it's safe: Strong police presence + family-first design

Ideal for:

• Budget-conscious homebuyers
• Commuters to D.C. metro
• Families who value parks + quiet streets

👉 See Most Affordable Places in Michigan for other options

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If storms worry you, head inland.

While Virginia Beach and Norfolk offer coastal beauty, they face higher hurricane risks. These inland cities combine safety, elevation, and quality of life—with virtually no storm surge threats.

• Far from coastal impact zones
• Great schools, healthcare, and vibrant culture
• Popular with retirees and young families

• Mountain-buffered city = low storm disruption
• Home to James Madison University
• Ideal for nature lovers and remote workers

• Low hurricane risk, charming historic homes
• Family-focused with solid public schools
• High walkability score

• Natural storm buffer = rare hurricane damage
• Affordable housing and job growth
• Best for outdoor enthusiasts and first-time buyers

Virginia consistently ranks as one of the best states to live in due to its low crime rates, strong economy, and high quality of life. The state offers a diverse range of places to live, from historic small towns to modern urban centers. Additionally, Virginia’s crime rates are lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for families and professionals.

Whether you're seeking a safe suburban neighborhood, a thriving urban environment, or a quiet rural retreat, Virginia has something for everyone.

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Poquoson is the safest city in Virginia based on crime rates (0.5 per 1,000 violent crimes). It's a quiet coastal town with strong community watch programs.

Virginia's violent crime rate is 2.1 per 1,000, and property crime is about 17.5 per 1,000, which is lower than national averages.

Mostly. Central and western Virginia cities like Charlottesville, Staunton, and Roanoke are well-protected from coastal hurricanes.

Northern Virginia cities such as Falls Church, Leesburg, and Manassas Park report the lowest combined crime rates.

Use local crime maps, ask about Neighborhood Watch programs, and check response times from local law enforcement. reAlpha agents help assess this.

Find the Perfect Mortgage in Virginia with Be My Neighbor.

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

Get Pre-approved