Top 10 Safest Cities in North Carolina in 2024 - NewHomeSource.com (2024)

In case you can’t decide where to live, consider North Carolina, one of the 13 colonies. It offers mountain ranges, historical cities nestled along the foothills and barrier-island beaches. In its early days, all those inlets made it a magnet for pirates. The most famous was Blackbeard, who had a host of key hideouts, but fortunately, the days of swashbuckling pirates are in the past.

Businesses are thriving in North Carolina; Forbes voted it the most business-friendly state in the country and best state for business for three consecutive years. After New York City, Charlotte holds the title of the nation’s second-largest banking center. With the terrain and the business climate being so favorable, it’s no surprise that many have decided to call the Tar Heel State home. It is also a great destination for retirees. Take a look at the 10 safest cities that you may want to call home.

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The Top 10 Safest Cities in North Carolina

1. Gibsonville

• Population: 8,246
• Violent Crimes per 10,000 People: 5
• Nonviolent Crimes per 10,000 People: 24
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft
• 92% Below National Crime Rate

Welcome to the “City of Roses”! Gibsonville, one of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets is only 17 miles from Greensboro. It’s got that steady, unassuming quality that makes it easy to overlook and just as easy to fall in love with. Gibsonville is a refuge from the hustle and bustle while still being close enough for a quick drive to grab a taste of the big city life. Greensboro, just 15 minutes away, offers all the urban amenities you’d need—shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Raleigh and Durham aren’t far off either, with both being around an hour’s drive, making Gibsonville a hub of sorts for those who want proximity without the chaos.

It comes by its nickname with a variety of blooms. Strolling along the fence line at Minneola Mill, you’ll find an abundance of vibrantly colored rose bushes, and the residents are still planting more. Along with its beauty, Gibsonville is family-friendly; every summer the Downtown Greens features Market Days. The community comes together for music, kid’s activities, and more.

You’ll see it in the historic downtown, where buildings from the early 1900s still line the streets, now filled with shops, cafes, and small businesses that cater to the local community. And that’s the thing about Gibsonville: it’s a place where you can still get to know your neighbors, where families find safe streets and a real sense of community.

This city with its low crime rate will be a great place to put down roots. Families, retirees, and single professionals will all appreciate that crime is low, and the schools are part of the highly-rated Alamance-Burlington School System. Parks like Northeast Park, with its playgrounds, ball fields, and walking trails, offer plenty of outdoor fun. And if you’re into more nature-centric activities, you’re just a short drive from Haw River State Park, where hiking and birdwatching are practically a way of life.

Entertainment is more low-key. The local dining scene is anchored by cozy spots offering a variety of dining including farm-to-table options. If shopping is on your list, the nearby Tanger Outlets in Mebane offer everything from high-end brands to quirky finds. Collegiate sports fans can cheer for the Elon University Phoenix, just down the road, or head to Greensboro for professional sports, including the Greensboro Grasshoppers minor league baseball team.

Healthcare is solid, with easy access to hospitals in both Greensboro and Burlington, including Cone Health Alamance Regional Medical Center. Major employers include the nearby universities and various manufacturing firms, which keeps the local economy diverse and stable. For retirees, the slower pace and welcoming community are a big draw, while single professionals will appreciate the town’s proximity to larger cities for work or nightlife.

Gibsonville is one of those places you don’t expect to leave an impression, but it does. It’s close enough to the action but far enough to breathe. And if you’re looking for a place where you can feel safe, raise a family, or just enjoy a quiet retirement, this little railroad town might be the spot you’ve been searching for.

2. Pinehurst

• Population: 15,945
• Violent Crimes per 10,000 People: 6
• Nonviolent Crimes per 10,000 People: 42
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft
• 91% Below National Crime Rate

Pinehurst, North Carolina, sits in the southern part of the state, about 70 miles southwest of Raleigh and a little over an hour from Fayetteville. It’s a small village with a name that resonates far beyond its size. Known as the “Home of American Golf,” Pinehurst has a reputation built on its iconic golf courses, especially Pinehurst No. 2, a course that has hosted the U.S. Open multiple times. But golf is just part of the story here. Pinehurst feels like a retreat from the fast pace of city life, offering a blend of Southern charm, natural beauty, and a slower, more deliberate way of living.

Golfing legends know this city well; it’s been the site of three U.S. Opens and number four takes place in 2024. The town’s low crime rate and lush landscaping make it a serene place to call home. Pinehurst has been awarded the honor of “The Safest Place to Live in North Carolina” more than once.

Pinehurst has a reputation for safety, with a low crime rate that makes it an attractive place to live. Be sure to check out all the new homes in the Pinehurst area. The streets are lined with tall pine trees, and the village center is filled with quaint shops, cafes, and boutiques that give it a storybook feel. Families will appreciate the quiet neighborhoods, good schools, and plenty of outdoor activities for kids. Single professionals may find themselves drawn to nearby Southern Pines, which has a bit more energy, with a growing dining and nightlife scene that’s still just a stone’s throw from Pinehurst’s more relaxed vibe.

Retirees, on the other hand, might be most intrigued by the lifestyle Pinehurst offers. Golf is the big draw, of course, but there’s also a lot of history here. The Tufts Archives, which is part of the Given Memorial Library, offers a glimpse into the founding of the village by James Walker Tufts, who envisioned Pinehurst as a health resort. For those who prefer being outdoors, the area’s parks, including Rassie Wicker Park, offer walking trails, picnic spots, and plenty of green space for relaxing or a leisurely day out with family.

Dining in Pinehurst ranges from casual spots to more refined options. You’ll find plenty of places to grab Southern favorites, like barbecue, but also some higher-end restaurants for a special night out. Shopping is centered around the village, where you’ll find boutique stores mixed with galleries and local artisan shops. For more serious retail therapy, Raleigh’s shopping districts aren’t far away.

Entertainment here is a mix of small-town charm and regional flair. The Carolina Philharmonic provides a taste of the arts, while annual events like the Pinehurst Concours d’Elegance, a vintage car show, bring in visitors from all over. And of course, if you’re into sports, it’s hard to ignore the golf culture. Professional and amateur tournaments are frequent, drawing enthusiasts from all over the world. College sports fans aren’t far from ACC powerhouses in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Durham.

Healthcare in Pinehurst is well-regarded, with the FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital providing excellent care, and more specialized medical centers available in nearby Raleigh. Schools here are highly rated, and Sandhills Community College offers continuing education and community engagement opportunities.

What really sets Pinehurst apart is its mix of small-town tranquility and world-class amenities. It’s a place where you can spend a quiet afternoon on the golf course, enjoy a fine meal, and still be close enough to bigger cities when you need a taste of urban life. It’s a place that feels like home, but with an added touch of luxury and history that makes it truly unique.

3. Winterville

• Population: 10,727
• Violent Crimes per 10,000 People: 6
• Nonviolent Crimes per 10,000 People: 33
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft
• 89% Below National Crime Rate

Who wouldn’t want to live in a city where there’s a street called Primrose Lane? Winterville, North Carolina, is in the eastern part of the state, a short drive south from Greenville. It’s one of those towns that seems small enough to fly under the radar but close enough to everything you need. Raleigh is about an hour and a half away, and the beach is just another hour to the east. Winterville feels balanced—just the right mix of small-town calm and proximity to larger cities when the mood strikes.

Known more for its strong sense of community than any single attraction, it’s the kind of place where people stay for generations, and new families blend right in. You’ll find that the crime rate here is reassuringly low, which only adds to the appeal. It’s safe, it’s clean, and there’s a comforting predictability in knowing that people look out for one another.

Families love Winterville for its parks and green spaces. The town’s main recreational hub, Winterville Recreation Park, offers everything from sports fields to walking trails and playgrounds. There’s a sense of space here, the kind of place where kids can play freely and retirees can enjoy peaceful walks. While it doesn’t have major museums, nearby Greenville offers attractions like the Greenville Museum of Art and River Park North, making it easy to hop over for a dose of culture or nature when needed.

Captain Jack Miniature Golf, Stumpy’s Hatchet House, and Riverside Recreation in nearby Greenville are some spots to enjoy your free time. If you’re looking for cool neighborhoods or vibrant shopping districts, Greenville’s Uptown area is close enough to scratch that itch, but Winterville is perfect for those who want to keep things simple and grounded.

Sports fans won’t be left out either. Being so close to East Carolina University in Greenville means you can catch collegiate sports year-round, from football to basketball and everything in between. Plus, professional sports in Raleigh, like the Carolina Hurricanes hockey team, are just far enough to make for a fun day trip.

Healthcare is a strong point here, thanks to nearby Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, one of the largest hospitals in the region. And for families, the local schools in Pitt County are well-received, with Winterville itself home to several good options, both public and private. East Carolina University also provides educational opportunities close by, drawing young professionals and lifelong learners alike.

Winterville’s safe, community-driven feel allows a pace of life that lets you breathe. For anyone looking for a place that feels like home without the complications of city life, Winterville offers that middle ground.

4. Fletcher

• Population: 8,295
• Violent Crimes per 10,000 People: 6
• Nonviolent Crimes per 10,000 People: 33
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft
• 89% Below National Crime Rate

Fletcher is a small community that is tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, right between Asheville to the north and Hendersonville to the south. This excellent locale gives it prime access to two of the state’s most vibrant small cities. It’s the kind of town that doesn’t try too hard to impress but manages to charm anyone who sets foot in it. Fletcher’s appeal is its quiet strength—solid community, beautiful scenery, and a way of life that makes you feel secure.

Families, single professionals, and retirees alike can all find something to appreciate here. The low crime rate and safe neighborhoods are a huge draw. Crime isn’t something that dominates conversations in Fletcher—people leave their doors unlocked, kids play outside, and there’s a general sense that this is a place where life feels manageable and safe.

For nature lovers, Fletcher has no shortage of outdoor spaces to explore. The nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, just a short drive away, offers some of the most breathtaking views in the country, and Fletcher’s own Bill Moore Community Park has walking trails, sports fields, and a peaceful lake perfect for picnics. If state parks are more your speed, the Pisgah National Forest is close enough for a weekend hiking trip or some serious mountain biking. This access to the outdoors is one of Fletcher’s biggest perks, and it’s something that appeals across all demographics.

Entertainment is more about what’s happening in the surrounding area. Asheville’s lively arts scene, craft breweries, and music festivals are just a 20-minute drive away. Meanwhile, the historic charm of Hendersonville, with its boutique shops and locally-owned restaurants, offers a slower pace but with plenty of character. Dining in Fletcher leans towards cozy Southern comfort, but with Asheville so close, you’ve got a gateway to an eclectic food scene.

Healthcare is strong here too, anchored by nearby hospitals like AdventHealth Hendersonville and Mission Hospital in Asheville, both of which offer top-tier medical care. Schools in Fletcher are part of the Henderson County system, known for its solid academic programs and a community invested in its children’s education.

Live in Fletcher for a life that feels both connected and grounded. It’s the kind of place where you know your neighbors, where the mountain views remind you to take things slow, and where the options for outdoor adventure are endless. For anyone looking to escape the hectic grind without sacrificing comfort or access to modern conveniences, Fletcher stands out as a great place to put down roots.

5. Wake Forest

• Population: 50,661
• Violent Crimes per 10,000 People: 7
• Nonviolent Crimes per 10,000 People: 36
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft
• 88% Below National Crime Rate

Wake Forest, North Carolina sits just northeast of Raleigh, the state capital, and it has managed to maintain its small-town charm even as it sits on the edge of the bustling Research Triangle. It’s a town that strikes a balance between historic roots and modern growth. Located in the northern part of the state, Wake Forest is about 20 miles from downtown Raleigh and a little over an hour from Durham and Chapel Hill, which means big-city amenities and top-tier universities are just a short drive away.

Known as the original home of Wake Forest University before it relocated to Winston-Salem, this town has kept its name and its academic spirit. It’s a place where you can walk through historic downtown streets lined with local shops and cafes, but also hop on a greenway trail and be immersed in nature within minutes. Safety is a big selling point here too. Wake Forest has a relatively low crime rate, making it an attractive place for those looking for a community where they can feel secure.

The schools are a major draw. The Wake County Public School System is one of the best in the state, and there are plenty of parks where kids can play or sports leagues they can join. For retirees, the slower pace of the town’s residential areas and proximity to quality healthcare options, like those offered at WakeMed North or UNC Rex Hospital, provide peace of mind. Single professionals might appreciate the fact that they can live in a quieter area while still being within easy commuting distance to Raleigh’s tech and research hubs.

There’s plenty to explore in Wake Forest. The Wake Forest Historical Museum gives you a glimpse into the town’s past, while E. Carroll Joyner Park offers over 100 acres of green space, complete with walking trails, an amphitheater, and community events like outdoor concerts and movies. Dining options range from local favorites to casual bites to fine dining experiences. Get your retail therapy taken care of at the quirky boutiques downtown. Entertainment includes local theater performances and live music at the Renaissance Centre.

Sports enthusiasts will find no shortage of action either. The nearby universities—NC State, Duke, and UNC—have some of the best collegiate sports programs in the country. Professional teams like the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes play just down the road in Raleigh, while minor league baseball and soccer offer more local entertainment.

What sets Wake Forest apart is that it manages to have its own identity while still being closely linked to Raleigh. Major employers in the region like IBM, Cisco, and the various research institutions of the Triangle mean there’s no shortage of job opportunities, but at the end of the day, you can return to the quieter, tree-lined streets of Wake Forest. The town’s neighborhoods are filled with Southern-style homes, and there’s a real sense of community, where block parties and farmers’ markets still happen regularly.

Whether it’s the quality of life, the proximity to major employers, or just the sense that this town is growing in all the right ways, Wake Forest has a lot going for it. For those looking for a place where the pace feels just right, it’s hard to beat.

6. Davidson

• Population: 15,143
• Violent Crimes per 10,000 People: 7
• Nonviolent Crimes per 10,000 People: 34
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft
• 88% Below National Crime Rate

Davidson, North Carolina, is the kind of town where Southern charm feels effortless. Located just 20 miles north of Charlotte, it’s tucked along the shores of Lake Norman, giving the town an almost vacation-like vibe, while still maintaining a close connection to the hustle and bustle of a major city.

Davidson is an affluent lakeside town. An attributing factor of living here could be the 97 percent high school graduation rate. A plus for this well-kept, safe city is that the locals say it’s pet-friendly. Lake Norman is a large perk, and the town is home to many NASCAR drivers. Looking to move to Davidson, take a look at the new homes available.

Davidson boasts a small-town feel, bolstered by the presence of Davidson College, a prestigious liberal arts school that infuses the community with energy and culture. The town has a reputation for being safe and welcoming, with crime rates consistently lower than the national average. It’s the kind of place where families, single professionals, and retirees can all find something that makes them feel at home.

Families are drawn to Davidson for its highly rated public schools and the town’s strong sense of community. Retirees appreciate the slower pace, with easy access to parks like Fisher Farm and the nearby Lake Norman State Park, where hiking, biking, and boating opportunities abound. There’s an emphasis on green spaces, and walking or biking around town is a common way of life. The town’s commitment to preserving its historic charm and natural beauty is evident, from its tree-lined streets to its farmers market.

For those looking for entertainment, the proximity to Charlotte provides easy access to professional sports, including the Carolina Panthers (NFL) and Charlotte Hornets (NBA), along with top-tier college sports right in town at Davidson College. The town itself has plenty to offer, with theaters, galleries, and the Davidson Village Green, which hosts outdoor concerts and festivals throughout the year.

Dining and shopping in Davidson are a mix of locally-owned boutiques and restaurants that reflect the town’s refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Main Street is home to a variety of spots, from fine dining to casual cafes, and there’s always something new to discover.

Healthcare options are solid, with nearby Novant Health Huntersville Medical Center and Atrium Health providing top-tier medical care. And while Davidson may feel like a quaint college town, it’s home to major employers like Ingersoll Rand and other companies in the greater Charlotte area, making it attractive for professionals who crave a short commute and a high quality of life.

People move here because it offers the best of both worlds—a quiet, tight-knit community with easy access to the amenities of a much larger city. It’s hard to beat a place where you can go from watching a college basketball game on campus to a quiet evening on the lake, all within a few miles. This safe, secure locale is one to choose for your next home.

7. Apex

• Population: 59,836
• Violent Crimes per 10,000 People: 7
• Nonviolent Crimes per 10,000 People: 49
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft
• 87% Below National Crime Rate

Apex is located in the central part of the state, just outside the bustling capital of Raleigh. The Research Triangle is nearby too, with Durham and Chapel Hill both less than an hour’s drive, making it a prime spot for anyone wanting access to big-city amenities without sacrificing that tight-knit community feel. Locally known as “The Peak of Good Living,” Apex has leaned into its nickname with a historic downtown that feels like a postcard from simpler times, while being surrounded by all the perks of one of the fastest-growing regions in the country.

Locals are enchanted with the pace of life in Apex and give high marks to the mild weather, ripe employment opportunities, robust school system and safe, quiet, brand new neighborhoods. Apex is known for its safety, boasting low crime rates that make it an attractive option for families at any stage of life. For those with kids, the schools in the Wake County district are top-tier, and local parks like Apex Nature Park and the nearby Jordan Lake State Recreation Area provide endless opportunities for outdoor activities—from hiking and fishing to kayaking and picnicking.

Families can explore attractions like the Halle Cultural Arts Center or take part in one of the many town festivals, like PeakFest, which brings the entire community together. For single professionals and young families, the close proximity to the Research Triangle Park (RTP) means top employers like IBM, Cisco, and Duke University are right in your backyard.

The vibe of downtown Apex is welcoming as it’s lined with unique boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Retirees will appreciate the slower pace and the abundance of walking trails, community events, and easy access to healthcare, with major hospitals like WakeMed and Duke Raleigh just a short drive away.

Sports fans can catch collegiate games at nearby Duke or UNC-Chapel Hill, while professional teams like the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and minor league baseball’s Durham Bulls are close enough to make weekend trips to the city exciting.

Apex’s combination of safety, good schools, a thriving job market, and a growing sense of cultural energy makes it a top contender for anyone seeking a community with both roots and wings. There’s a reason people keep flocking to this “Peak of Good Living.” It’s a city where life feels manageable, the future looks bright, and the neighbors still stop to say hello.

8. Cary

• Population: 180,010
• Violent Crimes per 10,000 People: 9
• Nonviolent Crimes per 10,000 People: 52
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft
• 86% Below National Crime Rate

Cary, North Carolina, sits in the heart of the state’s famed Research Triangle, just a short drive from both Raleigh and Durham. Imagine proximity to the high-energy urban centers nearby while relishing the laid-back, suburban vibe that so many are looking for. The city’s ideal placement makes a multitude of activity possible. In the span of one day, you can be at the beach or atop a mountain.

Known as the “Concentrated Area of Relocated Yankees,” Cary has a bit of a tongue-in-cheek reputation for attracting people from all over the country. Whether you’re coming for the jobs, the schools, or just the quality of life, Cary’s diversity is part of what makes it special. The city is known for its pristine parks, safe neighborhoods, and excellent schools, and it’s consistently ranked as one of the safest places in the country with a low crime rate that appeals to families and retirees alike.

Its education system is another reason. The public schools are some of the best in the nation, with a 9.5/10 rank. Collegiately, Cary is just down the road from Duke University, the University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill and NC State University, putting it right inside the important Research Triangle.

Cary is a town that caters to everyone. There are miles of greenways and parks—like Bond Park, where you can rent a kayak or paddleboat, or Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, a quiet haven with walking trails through rare Eastern Hemlock trees. For sports fans, the nearby PNC Arena hosts the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, and the NC State Wolfpack play just down the road in Raleigh, while Cary itself boasts the USA Baseball National Training Complex.

Cary’s shopping and dining scene is varied enough to keep things interesting. Downtown Cary is charming with its mix of boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries, while the upscale Waverly Place and Parkside Town Commons offer plenty of modern dining and retail options. The restaurant scene is reflective of the city’s growth, with everything from farm-to-table Southern spots to international cuisines, making it a foodie destination in its own right.

Healthcare in Cary is top-notch, with major medical centers like WakeMed Cary Hospital and access to Duke University Hospital and UNC Hospitals, just a short drive away. Cary’s schools are some of the best in the state, with public, charter, and private options, plus nearby higher education institutions like North Carolina State University, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill fueling a highly educated workforce. Major employers like SAS, one of the largest software companies in the world, and other Research Triangle firms mean that Cary has a strong job market.

You are not limited in Cary. You can have the suburban life with access to some of the best job opportunities in the country. You can raise a family or settle down into retirement and still be a stone’s throw away from everything that makes the Triangle one of the most dynamic regions in the South. It’s safe, smart, and offers just about everything you could need.

9. Holly Springs

• Population: 37,812
• Violent Crimes per 10,000 People: 8
• Nonviolent Crimes per 10,000 People: 62
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft
• 84% Below National Crime Rate

Holly Springs, North Carolina, is one of those places that feels like it’s on the cusp of something big, yet grounded in its small-town roots. Nestled in the central part of the state, it’s part of the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill triangle, meaning you’re just a short drive from three major cities. Raleigh is less than 20 miles away, Durham about 30 miles, and Chapel Hill is close enough for a day trip. It’s known for its scenic beauty and that quintessential Southern charm.

As its name suggests, the city emerged where holly trees and fresh springs intersected. A perfect place to meet the locals and buy fresh products in this quaint town is the farmers market. And history buffs may feel like they have stepped back into the days of the Civil War with several buildings and homes still dating to the era.

Holly Springs stands out for being one of the safest places to live in North Carolina, and people talk about that a lot when they’re considering a move here. The crime rate is remarkably low, and the sense of community is strong. Whether you’re raising a family, starting a career, or settling into retirement, it feels like a place where people genuinely care about their neighbors.

Holly Springs blends the old with the new. The historic downtown, with its small shops and eateries, is just a stone’s throw from new developments and expanding neighborhoods. The Bass Lake Park is a local gem, offering fishing, boating, and miles of trails for hiking. Families love the parks, like Womble Park, which hosts everything from soccer games to community events. For a bit of a larger adventure, the nearby Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers camping, boating, and even bald eagle spotting.

For those who love sports, living this close to Raleigh means access to the Carolina Hurricanes hockey team and NC State’s collegiate sports. But perhaps the most attractive feature for professionals is Holly Springs’ growing economy. Major employers like Seqirus, a global biotech company, have set up shop here, drawing in talent from the Research Triangle.

Healthcare is well-covered too, with nearby facilities like WakeMed and UNC Rex hospitals ensuring excellent medical services. The schools are an additional bonus, with Wake County public schools receiving high marks, and there are a handful of nearby colleges, including North Carolina State University, that make this area appealing for families with college-bound kids.

Holly Springs might not have the name recognition of Raleigh or Durham, but that’s part of its allure. It’s a town that’s growing, yet maintaining its sense of self, offering a balance of safety, community, and opportunity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

10. Boone

• Population: 19,774
• Violent Crimes per 10,000 People: 16
• Nonviolent Crimes per 10,000 People: 53
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft
• 81% Below National Crime Rate

This beautiful town rests high on the spine of the Appalachian Mountains and is home to Appalachian State University. Nestled into the northwest corner of the state in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone is a great place to call home. This postcard town offers rolling hills, fresh mountain air, and the kind of small-town charm that seems rare these days. It’s not far from some bigger cities; Charlotte is about two hours southeast, and Asheville, with its artsy, eclectic vibe, is a little over an hour away to the southwest.

The town’s nickname, “The Heart of the High Country,” fits like a glove. It’s named after Daniel Boone, the American pioneer, and you can feel a bit of that frontier spirit when you walk through the town. Boone is a magnet for people who crave the outdoors, offering everything from hiking on the Appalachian Trail to skiing at nearby resorts like Appalachian Ski Mountain.

For a town deeply connected to nature, it also has an impressive cultural side. Appalachian State University calls Boone home, and with that comes all the vibrancy a university can offer—music festivals, theater productions, and a young, energetic crowd mixing with the laid-back mountain locals.

In terms of safety, Boone has a reputation for being a safe, close-knit community with a low crime rate compared to national averages. Families moving here will find a sense of security in that, along with excellent public schools and a range of family-friendly activities. The Watauga County Farmers’ Market is a big draw, and the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway offers some of the best scenic drives and hikes you’ll find in the country.

For retirees, Boone offers the chance to slow down and enjoy life. The town’s peaceful surroundings and strong healthcare options, like the Appalachian Regional Healthcare System, make it an appealing choice. The cultural attractions don’t hurt either. The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts and the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum provide a steady stream of cultural engagement, while Grandfather Mountain and Julian Price Memorial Park offer breathtaking views and trails for those looking to stay active.

Boone’s downtown area, with its independent shops and locally owned restaurants, offers a shopping and dining experience that’s charmingly offbeat. There are cool neighborhoods like the historic district and plenty of green spaces to explore. For entertainment, there’s a little something for everyone—App State sports are a big deal, drawing crowds for football and basketball games, while the town’s music scene is thriving, with regular performances at spots like the Appalachian Theatre.

In Boone, you don’t have to choose between the tranquility of nature and the buzz of a college town—they coexist here in a way that feels seamless. It’s a place that appeals to adventurers, academics, and anyone who just wants to live life at their own pace. Whether you’re raising a family, starting a career, or looking for the perfect spot to retire, Boone’s got something for you.

Data are taken from FBI U.S. crime statistics.