Safest Cities in North America to Live In
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Table of Contents
Introduction
In this section, we will discuss the safest cities in North America to live in.
There is really no dearth of undiscovered treasures to investigate and things that are sure to leave an indelible impression in the North American continent. Nevertheless, there is constantly the issue of safety, but notwithstanding certain disconcerting reports of increasing crime and gun violence, North America is home to a large number of amazing places that are completely safe for expats to settle in and tourists to visit.
It should be possible to find a safe city that caters to your specific requirements, regardless of whether you’re a digital nomad, a retiree, or a traveler.
Safest Cities in North America: San Francisco, California
We have the ever-charming San Francisco, which can be found in the state of California’s glorious sunshine. Crime, when it does occur, is typically limited to the risky suburban areas of the city, which are rarely populated by tourists. All in all, it is a very safe location for you to settle in and for vacationers to visit. In addition to that, there is always the possibility of an earthquake happening, but they aren’t very frequent, and the most significant one that happened here was in 1994.
Because the incidence of crime in San Francisco is largely confined to particular areas, it is recommended that, prior to making a reservation, you do some preliminary research on the area in which you will be staying. Even though the Tenderloin District, South of Market (SoMa), Mission District, and Bayview are not off-limits, the likelihood of being a victim of a violent crime is higher in these areas, and the level of poverty remains.
In comparison to other major cities in the United States, this one generally has a significantly lower rate of violent crime. Although there is a possibility of being a victim of pick-pocketing or having your purse stolen along the F line Streetcar and Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, these crimes are not common. On top of that, you need to remain vigilant when you’re riding the public transportation.
Places that are densely populated, as well as downtown neighborhoods such as Mid-Market, 6th St., and the Western Addition, are examples of other environments in which you should exercise extreme caution with regard to the security of your personal belongings. It goes without saying that you should steer clear of dark passageways and streets when you are out and about at night.
In general, San Francisco is also a remarkably safe city for women, and if they take the same common-sense precautions they would use in any other city, they should be able to reduce the likelihood of anything negative happening to them while they are there.
San Francisco is a great place to be in if you value your personal safety above all else. In addition, there are more than enough breathtaking beaches and exciting attractions in the city to cater to a wide variety of preferences.
How much is the living cost in San Francisco?
As of the time of writing, renting a one-bedroom apartment within San Francisco’s city center costs about 3,294 US dollars per month and 2,605 dollars outside that area, according to cost of living data aggregator Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 11,435 dollars and 10,151.5 dollars per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in San Francisco is estimated to cost 22 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 100 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the city for a family of four can reach an estimated average of 5,057 dollars per month, while a single person can live off 1,405 dollars a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Cities in North America: Virginia Beach, Virginia
It should be no shock that Virginia Beach is a popular destination for vacationers given the city’s breathtaking coastline, endearing fishing spots, interesting cultural attractions, and abundance of breweries.
According to a study that was conducted in 2021 by AdvisorSmith, this city has a low rate of violent crime on top of providing a variety of attractions that can be enjoyed for a variety of occasions.
Whatever the case may be, being extra cautious won’t hurt.
Hurricanes are common occurrences in Virginia Beach as well, with the peak season running from about the middle of August to about the middle of October.
Aside from the fact that it is a secure location, it has also garnered a little bit of a name for being an excellent location for a romantic getaway thanks to the abundance of gorgeous beaches and verdant resorts that are located there. This reputation was earned in addition to the fact that it is a safe location.
You could, of course, also check out its lively nightlife, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, or one of its numerous art exhibitions.
How much is the living cost in Virginia Beach?
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment within Virginia Beach’s city center costs 1,510 dollars per month and 1,315 dollars outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach roughly 2,379 dollars and 1,910.5 dollars per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Virginia Beach is estimated to cost 23 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 80 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the city for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 3,632 dollars per month, while a single person can live off roughly 995 dollars a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Cities in North America: Wasilla, Alaska
Wasilla is a cozy and adorable city that is the entry point to the incredible Hatchers Pass. It is also home to a wide range of shops, places to stay, and restaurants, in addition to breweries. The city serves as a gateway to the amazing Denali National Park. Furthermore, it is considered to be one of the safest cities in the entire state of Alaska.
Having said that, it does experience sporadic property crimes such as break-ins or thefts of motor vehicles, so it is important to maintain vigilance regarding your immediate surroundings in order to stay extra safe. In the past, Alaska has been struck by a variety of natural disasters, and it is also home to a particularly diverse collection of animal species. It’s best not to get too close to wild animals or give them any food if you see them outside.
Wasilla is a very laid-back city, and you can expect to find a wide variety of attractions that are suitable for families, such as museums and state recreational spaces.
You could begin by going to the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry. You can learn about the history of gold mining and aviation in California as well as discover historic train cars, fishing boats used for commercial fishing, automobiles, and other vehicles here.
In addition, there is a classic train and toy showcase for the children to look at and enjoy while they are there. The Mat-Su Valley is home to a number of lakes and rivers that are teeming with king salmon and rainbow trout, among others. If you’re looking for a place to fish, you won’t have any trouble finding it here.
How much is the living cost in Wasilla?
Renting a one-bedroom apartment within Wasilla’s city center costs about 817 dollars per month and 783 dollars outside that area, according to Numbeo.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Wasilla is estimated to cost 32.5 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 75 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
Safest Cities in North America: Honolulu, Hawaii
The city of Honolulu is considered to be the most desirable location in all of Hawaii because it serves as the state’s principal hub for government, transportation, and commercial activity. Because of its warm tropical climate and clear, azure waters, this location is ideal for relaxing, and it also features a high level of personal security.
Even though it is common knowledge that Waikiki gets extremely crowded at night, you shouldn’t worry about your safety because there is a significant police presence in the area to deter both minor and serious crimes. While you are enjoying the street performers, your primary concern here should be for pickpockets, but you should also be careful not to underestimate the strength of the ocean currents at the beaches.
It is recommended that Chinatown and the areas immediately surrounding it be avoided in the evening due to the high incidence of muggings in these parts of the city. During the day, however, the city as a whole is relatively risk-free.
You should also consider the fact that Honolulu is subject to random acts of property crime, and we strongly advise against keeping anything of value in your vehicle due to the prevalence of these acts. Despite this, Honolulu is ranked among the safest cities in North America thanks to the allure of its high-end resorts and laid-back atmosphere.
How much is the living cost in Honolulu?
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment within Honolulu’s city center costs 2,051 dollars per month and 1,696 dollars outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 8,401 dollars and about 5,791 dollars per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Honolulu is estimated to cost 18 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 82.5 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the city for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 5,229 dollars per month, while a single person can live off roughly 1,459 dollars a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Cities in North America: Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is truly distinct from any other city in Canada in a variety of ways, including its magnificent mountains, its picturesque oceans, its art galleries, and its vibrant nightlife. As a matter of fact, it is among the best places to live in the world based on the Global Liveability Index ranking of the top 10 best and 10 worst places to live in the world in 2022 by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), according to CNBC.
Even though violent crime is uncommon in isolated areas like Stanley Park, it is best to take general precautionary measures because of the prevalence of drugs and prostitution at night in those areas, which can become risky.
However, as long as you don’t go looking for trouble, this city is considered to be virtually crime-free for tourists. This is especially the case when you take into account the fact that crimes typically take place in regions that are removed from tourist attractions, such as Downtown, which is perfectly safe during the day.
In addition to this, it is a very secure location for women traveling alone, and the people who live there have a well-deserved reputation for being extremely friendly and welcoming. Your stay in Vancouver should go off without a hitch as long as you stay indoors at night and don’t wander around the city by yourself, especially while you’re still new to the place. But other than that, you should be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Canadian heritage along with the country’s stunning natural landscapes.
How much is the living cost in Vancouver?
Renting a one-bedroom apartment within Vancouver’s city center costs about 2,419 Canadian dollars per month and 2,031 dollars outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 13,474.5 dollars and roughly 10,663 dollars per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Vancouver is estimated to cost 24.5 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 110 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the city for a family of four can reach an estimated average of 4,865.5 dollars per month, while a single person can live off 1,321 dollars a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Cities in North America: Toronto, Canada
There is literally something for everyone in Toronto, with the city boasting everything from a population that is mesmerizingly diverse to a vibrant food scene, architectural marvels, and magnificent indoor gardens. Despite its popularity as a tourist location, it is regarded as the city with the lowest crime rate in all of North America and is consistently ranked among the safest cities in the entire world.
Walking at any time of day or night in Toronto is not only possible, but also completely safe, which is one of the city’s many wonderful qualities. However, Yonge Street, which is one of the longest streets in the city, as well as The Entertainment District, which is covered with nightclubs and restaurants that are bursting at the seams with extremely drunk revelers, can be potentially dangerous at night.
As a result of this and the fact that there are reports of pick-pocketing occurring on occasion in restaurants and cafes, tourists are strongly advised to remain vigilant and watch both their surroundings and their possessions at all times.
On the other hand, you shouldn’t let too much anxiety get the better of you because the country has an excellent tourism infrastructure and a trustworthy police force.
Canada, being one of the countries in the world with the most varied topography, is susceptible to a number of different kinds of natural disasters. Tornadoes, snowstorms, and floods are all potential dangers; however, the risk level varies from region to region, and in the case of Toronto, the risk level is decidedly low.
How much is the living cost in Toronto?
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment within Toronto’s city center costs 2,336 Canadian dollars per month and 1,929 dollars outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach roughly 13,015 dollars and 9,831.5 dollars per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Toronto is estimated to cost 25 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 115 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the city for a family of four can reach an estimated average of about 4,990 dollars per month, while a single person can live off roughly 1,367 dollars a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Cities in North America: Montreal, Canada
In spite of the fact that it is one of the most populous and well-liked cities in Canada, Montreal surprisingly has one of the lowest crime rates in the entire country. It is also something of a cultural melting pot, and there is no dearth of museums, galleries, microbreweries, or lively festivals to visit here.
You should, as a general rule, take general travel safety precautions in order to ensure your safety in Montreal. This necessitates maintaining vigilance over your immediate environment, keeping abreast of local as well as national news, and being familiar with the people to whom you should direct your attention in the event of an urgent matter.
Pick-pocketing is the most common type of crime committed against tourists in this city, but it does not happen very often, and you can prevent it from happening to you by carrying your cash in a concealed location and wearing cross-body bags.
Because the police in Montreal are also very responsive and speak both English and French, assistance is guaranteed, even though it’s likely that you won’t need it. At night, you should avoid going to areas like the Red Light district as well as streets like Notre Dame Quest and Wellington-St. in Montreal Nord. It is also a good idea to avoid areas like the Wellington-St.
You should be perfectly safe in Montreal as long as you take common safety precautions, such as avoiding sketchy neighborhoods at night and not accepting drinks from strangers. Montreal is a fantastic place to visit for solo female travelers as well as female travelers who are traveling alone.
Because Montreal is prone to experiencing heavy snowfall and overnight freezes, both of which can make travel more difficult, you could even get safety advice and travel updates from a travel expert in Montreal in order to provide yourself with additional peace of mind.
How much is the living cost in Montreal?
Renting a one-bedroom apartment within Montreal’s city center costs about 1,407 Canadian dollars per month and 1,080 dollars outside that area, according to Numbeo. The costs for buying apartment within and outside the city center can reach 8,189.5 dollars and 4,706 dollars per square meter, respectively.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Montreal is estimated to cost 20 dollars, while a mid-range restaurant can charge 90 dollars for a three-course meal for two.
The overall cost of living in the city for a family of four can reach an estimated average of 4,266 dollars per month, while a single person can live off 1,158.5 dollars a month, both excluding rent.
Safest Cities in North America: Final Thoughts
Living in an entirely new city might be a bit unnerving, but relocating to a location that has a low rate of violent and property crime will almost certainly put you at ease in some way. If safety is your primary concern but wish to stay close to home (if you’re from the US), you might want to think about relocating to one of the cities that are included on this list because they are among the safest in all of North America.
There is no such location that can guarantee your complete and total safety. This is something that we stress over and over again. It is true that some locations will provide you with a greater sense of safety than any other, but doing your research before making any final commitment and using common sense will be of tremendous assistance to you.
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