Where Should Americans Move? 10 US States Combining Security and Financial Stability

When relocating within the US, balancing personal safety, financial security, and affordable housing becomes a complex puzzle. Selecting an ideal destination requires evaluating multiple factors—crime statistics, employment prospects, housing costs, and disaster preparedness all play crucial roles. A comprehensive analysis from WalletHub examined over 50 indicators spanning five safety dimensions: personal and residential safety, financial security, road safety, workplace safety, and emergency readiness. This assessment reveals which US states excel across these metrics.

The Leaders: States Achieving Exceptional Overall Safety

Vermont: America’s Safest Destination

The Green Mountain State emerged as the nation’s top-ranked location with a composite score of 67.22 out of 100. While the median home listing reached $509,000—slightly exceeding national averages—residents benefit from strong financial fundamentals. The state demonstrates impressive mortgage stability, with fewer residents carrying underwater mortgages compared to peer states. Bankruptcy rates remain remarkably low, contributing to exceptional financial security rankings.

Massachusetts: Where Opportunity Meets Safety

Harvard’s home state secured the second position nationally with a score of 66.56. High employment stability and abundant emergency medical services bolster its rankings. Despite commanding a median home value of $759,999—substantially above the US benchmark—Massachusetts maintains third-place standing in financial security. The state’s employment growth trajectories and minimal foreclosure pressures explain this resilience.

New Hampshire: Strong Communities, Solid Fundamentals

This US state registered 65.75 points, landing in third place overall. Its success stems from exceptionally low criminal activity rates and active neighborhood watch organizations, positioning it second nationally for residential safety. The median home list price stood at $595,000. Beyond housing considerations, low joblessness rates and elevated median credit scores strengthen household financial positions significantly.

Regional Champions: States Excelling in Specific Categories

Maine: Affordability Meets Security

The Pine Tree State captured fourth place with 64.69 points, showcasing strength in residential safety and disaster preparation capabilities. Financial advantages prove particularly compelling for cost-conscious residents. Monthly expenses for single individuals average $3,267—approximately 31.5% beneath the national norm. Four-person households anticipate roughly $5,340 monthly expenses, remaining marginally below country-wide averages. Median home prices near $475,000 represent realistic investment levels.

Utah: Western Excellence

Beyond its world-renowned canyon landscapes and national park systems, the Beehive State garnered fifth place with 62.88 points. The median home listing of $595,000 places it above national norms. Remarkably low vehicular fatality rates—ranking fourth nationally per 100 million vehicle miles—distinguish its transportation safety. Workplace protection measures and emergency response infrastructure earn particularly strong marks.

Connecticut: The Safe Northeast Alternative

Connecticut achieved sixth position with 62.25 points, leading the nation in residential safety metrics. Recent crime trend reports from the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection documented meaningful improvements: interpersonal crimes declined 2.4%, property crimes dropped 16.9%, and societal crimes fell 4.3%. This downward trajectory indicates strengthening community conditions.

Hawaii: Paradise with Financial Consideration

The island state registered 61.52 points despite substantial living expenses. Though median home prices approached $750,000, Hawaii ranked 11th nationally for financial stability when evaluating unemployment situations, foreclosure frequency, debt-to-income proportions, and household emergency savings.

Minnesota: The Balanced Choice

Minnesota accumulated 61.25 points, ranking second nationally for driving safety and fifth for financial security. Its median home listing of $395,000 offered the only sub-national-average price among top-ten states—a significant advantage for budget-conscious relocators seeking quality-of-life improvements.

Rhode Island: Compact State, Comprehensive Safety

America’s smallest state demonstrated surprising strength with 60.17 points, excelling in both residential safety and emergency preparation frameworks. The median listing price of $583,950 reflects regional housing market realities, running approximately $150,000 above the national median.

Wyoming: The Tenth Safe Haven

The Cowboy State completed the top-ten list with 59.04 points. Its median home price of $492,500 appeals to value-seeking purchasers. Strong emergency preparedness capabilities and acceptable residential safety credentials round out its profile.

Key Takeaways for Prospective Residents

The highest-ranking US locations demonstrate that safety and affordability need not be mutually exclusive. Minnesota stands out for offering below-average housing costs while maintaining top-ten status. Vermont and Massachusetts dominate overall rankings despite higher property investments, reflecting superior employment landscapes and financial stability indicators. Connecticut and Maine present compelling middle-ground options—solid safety credentials combined with more moderate housing expenses. Whether prioritizing road safety, workplace security, community protection, or financial resilience, America’s safest states offer distinct advantages aligned with various lifestyle preferences and budgetary constraints.