🏡 Top 20 Safest Cities to Live in North Carolina (2025)
Explore North Carolina's most livable and safety-focused cities based on HoodScore metrics including offender count, crime severity, and public safety records.
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Apex, North Carolina, boasts a HoodScore of 91, highlighting it as "Very Safe." Recent crime reports indicate 34 severe incidents and 61 medium-level crimes, with no low-level offenses. The area has 13 registered sex offenders related to child offenses, alongside 2 related to violence and 3 for rape. While the housing market is notably higher than the national average, the robust job opportunities and family-oriented community may justify this expense. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, ensuring you make informed decisions for your family's safety.
Crime Summary:
Cary, North Carolina boasts a HoodScore of 88, reflecting its status as a Very Safe neighborhood. Recent crime statistics indicate a total of 661 incidents, broken down into 132 severe, 529 medium, and no low-level crimes. The area has 22 registered sex offenders linked to child involvement, 5 with violent offenses, and 2 related to rape. While Cary is known for its higher cost of living, it offers a stable, family-oriented environment conducive to quality living. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on assessing safety risks, giving you vital information before making your move.
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3. Raleigh, NC
ZIP 27601 27603 27604 27605 27606 27607
27608 27609 27610 27612 27613 27614
27615 27616 27617 27695 27697 – Very Safe
Raleigh, North Carolina, boasts a HoodScore of 88, indicating it is Very Safe for residents. In recent crime statistics, there were 751 severe crimes, 1,501 medium crimes, and 164 low-level offenses, suggesting that while crime exists, serious incidents are relatively manageable. The area is home to 365 registered sex offenders, with 60 involved in violent crimes and 129 offenses related to rape. For those considering the cost of living, Raleigh's housing market is higher than the national average, yet the job market remains robust, offering opportunities. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore prioritizes safety and risks, ensuring you make an informed decision before moving.
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4. Pinehurst, NC
ZIP 28374 – Very Safe
Pinehurst, North Carolina boasts a HoodScore of 88, categorizing it as Very Safe. Recent crime statistics reveal a total of 153 incidents, with 21 classified as severe and 132 as medium. Notably, there are 4 registered sex offenders in the vicinity—3 for child-related offenses and 1 for violence, with no reported cases involving rape. The community's higher median home value of $423,007 reflects a cost of living that prioritizes value and quality of life for its predominantly older and married residents. In contrast to generic real estate platforms, HoodScore uniquely emphasizes safety and risk assessments, making it an essential tool for prospective movers.
Crime Summary:
Goldsboro, North Carolina, holds a HoodScore of 86, indicating a Very Safe environment for prospective residents. In recent crime statistics, there were 1 severe crime, 2 medium crimes, and no low-level crimes reported, suggesting a relatively quiet neighborhood. However, it’s important to note there are 80 registered sex offenders, including 23 for rape and 8 for other violent offenses, which may require consideration for families. The city's affordability and lower-cost housing make it an attractive living option despite some economic challenges. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, providing a safety-first decision tool for your new home.
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6. Huntersville, NC
ZIP 28078 – Very Safe
Huntersville, North Carolina, is a thriving community with a HoodScore of 86, classified as Very Safe. Recent crime statistics indicate a total of 29 incidents: 14 severe, 13 medium, and 2 low. The neighborhood contains 9 registered sex offenders, with 6 categorized as child-involved and 3 as violence-involved, but none related to rape offenses. Despite its higher cost of living, Huntersville offers residents a robust job market and a quality lifestyle. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, providing a safety-first decision-making tool for prospective residents.
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Greensboro, North Carolina, boasts a HoodScore of 84, classified as Very Safe, making it an attractive place for potential residents concerned about safety. Recent crime counts include 645 severe crimes, 795 medium-level crimes, and 170 low-level offenses. There are 245 registered offenders related to child involvement, 26 related to violent crimes, and 67 for sexual offenses. Affordability in Greensboro is notable, especially regarding housing, with median home values significantly below the national average. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, ensuring you make informed decisions about your new home.
Crime Summary:
Mooresville, North Carolina, is categorized as Very Safe with a HoodScore of 79. The community reported a total of 132 recent crimes, divided into 43 severe, 76 medium, and 13 low-level offenses. There are 41 registered offenders involved with children, 7 with violent offenses, and 8 related to rape in the area. This neighborhood boasts an appealing affordability in housing, with a median home value below the national average. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, making it a safety-first decision tool for new residents.
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9. Charlotte, NC
ZIP 28202 28203 28204 28205 28206 28207
28208 28209 28210 28211 28212 28213
28214 28215 28216 28217 28223 28226
28227 28244 28262 28269 28270 28273
28274 28277 28278 28280 28282 – Very Safe
Charlotte, North Carolina is rated with a HoodScore of 78, indicating it is classified as Very Safe. Recent crime statistics indicate a total of 1,635 crimes, broken down into 668 severe offenses, 873 medium-level incidents, and 94 low-level occurrences. There are 391 registered sex offenders, including 118 involved in rape and 69 associated with violent crimes. While housing costs are above the national average with a median home value of $397,862, Charlotte offers a higher value of living compared to similarly sized cities. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, ensuring your safety comes first.
Crime Summary:
Durham, NC, boasts a HoodScore of 77, categorized as Very Safe. The city has reported a total of 1,944 recent crimes, comprising 508 severe incidents, 1,325 medium, and 111 low-level offenses. Additionally, there are 151 registered sex offenders nearby, with 105 involving children, 18 categorized as violence-involved, and 28 linked to rape. Despite housing costs being slightly above the national median at $377,377, Durham offers a higher value of living, supported by a robust job market and a median household income of $79,522. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, helping you make informed decisions for your safety.
Crime Summary:
Wilmington, North Carolina, boasts a HoodScore of 77 and is classified as Very Safe, reflecting its overall favorable safety profile. In recent data, the city reported 302 severe crimes, 1196 medium crimes, and only 1 low crime incident. Nearby, there are 104 registered sex offenders involved with children, 13 with violent offenses, and 22 for rape-related offences. While Wilmington offers a lower cost of living, especially in housing, it's important to consider safety alongside lifestyle. HoodScore stands out as a safety-first decision tool, ensuring you focus on risks in your neighborhood before making a move.
Crime Summary:
Statesville, North Carolina, enjoys a HoodScore of 75, categorized as Very Safe. Recently, the area recorded 61 severe crimes, 87 medium crimes, and only 1 low-level crime. Nearby, there are 105 registered sex offenders, including 9 violent offenders and 16 involved in rape-related incidents. While Statesville stands out for its affordability in housing, it is important for potential residents to consider the community’s safety profile. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, ensuring you make a well-informed choice for your new home.
Crime Summary:
Jacksonville, North Carolina, offers a HoodScore of 75, classified as Very Safe. In recent crime data, the city reports 3 severe crimes, 0 medium crimes, and 1 low crime. There are 82 registered sex offenders related to child involvement, 18 involved in violence, and 9 related to rape. While the city is known for its affordability with a median home value significantly below the national average, the robust job market may attract prospective residents. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, ensuring you're well-informed about safety in your new neighborhood.
Crime Summary:
Hickory, North Carolina, has a HoodScore of 74, categorized as Moderate Risk. Recent crime statistics show a total of 37 incidents, broken down into 9 severe and 28 medium offenses, with no low-level crimes reported. The area has 68 registered offenders involved with children, 6 linked to violent crimes, and 10 associated with sexual offenses. While Hickory offers an affordable cost of living, making it attractive for many, prospective residents should consider these safety statistics carefully. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, ensuring you make an informed decision about your future neighborhood.
Crime Summary:
Fayetteville, North Carolina, boasts a HoodScore of 71, categorizing it as a Moderate Risk neighborhood. Recent crime reports indicate a total of 1,354 offenses, including 45 severe, 1,277 medium, and 32 low-level crimes. The area is home to 274 registered sex offenders involved with children, 55 violent offenders, and 50 rape offenders. While affordable housing makes Fayetteville attractive for many, potential residents should consider the safety landscape before making a move. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you relocate, empowering you to make informed decisions about your future home.
Crime Summary:
Concord, North Carolina, holds a HoodScore of 70 with a safety label of Moderate Risk. Recently, the area reported a total of 233 crimes, including 61 severe, 162 medium, and 10 low offenses. Additionally, there are 119 nearby registered sex offenders related to child involvement, 10 associated with violence, and 19 linked to rape. While Concord's cost of living is lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for new residents, it's important to prioritize safety in your decision-making. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, ensuring you make informed choices for a secure living environment.
Crime Summary:
Asheville, North Carolina, has a HoodScore of 65, classified as Moderate Risk. Recent crime statistics reveal a total of 1,840 incidents, including 528 severe crimes, 1,241 medium, and 71 low-level offenses. Additionally, there are 81 registered sex offenders involved with children, 12 violent offenders, and 23 related to rape. While Asheville's housing costs are above the national average, the city boasts a vibrant job market and efficient commutes, making it an appealing choice for many. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, ensuring your safety is prioritized in your home search.
Crime Summary:
Gastonia, North Carolina has a HoodScore of 61, indicating a Moderate Risk for safety. Recent crime statistics show a total of 1,627 crimes: 553 classified as severe, 1,051 as medium, and 23 as low. There are 134 registered sex offenders linked to child offenses, 14 related to violent crimes, and 24 associated with rape. Despite its safety concerns, Gastonia offers an affordable cost of living, particularly in housing, making it appealing for budget-conscious families. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, ensuring you make a well-informed decision about your new neighborhood.
Crime Summary:
Burlington, North Carolina, has a HoodScore of 48, indicating a Risk level for safety. There have been a total of 888 recent crimes reported, with 357 categorized as severe, 531 as medium, and none as low. Nearby, there are 114 registered offenders related to child involvement, 26 for violence, and 23 for rape. Despite affordability in housing being a significant draw, it is crucial for prospective residents to be aware of the safety risks. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore prioritizes risks to help you make informed decisions before moving.
Crime Summary:
Greenville, North Carolina, has a HoodScore of 45, categorized as a Risk area. Recent crime data reveals a total of 1,600 incidents, with 532 classified as severe, 948 as medium, and 120 as low. The neighborhood is home to 113 child-involved, 17 violence-involved, and 27 rape-involved registered sex offenders. While the city is known for its affordability, particularly in housing, the safety statistics suggest that potential residents should approach with caution. Unlike generic real estate sites, HoodScore focuses on risks before you move, making it a vital tool for safety-conscious decisions.
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* Crime and offender data sourced from the Texas Department of Public Safety and FBI Uniform Crime Reporting.