Discover 10 Safest Places to Live in Arizona

Arizona has much to offer its residents, from affordable cities to natural attractions like the Grand Canyon. But if you’re thinking about making the move, you may want to identify the safest places in Arizona before packing up. 

Fortunately, Arizona participates in the Uniform Crime Reporting Program, a national effort to standardize police records. The public can view crime data and statistics from every police department in the state.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the safest cities in Arizona based on 2023 data. The state police calculate crime rates per 100,000 residents regardless of the city’s actual size. 

10. Sahuarita

Population: 36,229

Number of Crimes in 2023: 716

Crime Rate (per 100,000): 1976.32

People have lived on Sahuarita land for hundreds of years. However, the city’s official name and recognition didn’t come until 1994. The name comes from the local saguaro cacti.

If Sahuarita becomes your home, you can live in an area where violent crime is rare. That gives you the confidence to enjoy outings at the Titan Missile Museum and other local attractions.

9. Maricopa

Population: 66,525

Number of Crimes in 2023: 1,307

Crime Rate (per 100,000): 1964.68

Maricopa attracts swarms of young professionals, families, and retirees. It’s a Phoenix suburb that provides big-city amenities for better prices. It’s also safer than Phoenix, which is why many consider the city the perfect place to raise a family.

8. Gilbert

Population: 277,123

Number of Crimes in 2023: 4,982

Crime Rate (per 100,000): 1797.76

If a small city or suburb seems stifling, try Gilbert. It’s one of the safest places to live in Arizona and has a sizeable population. It’s located in Maricopa County, not too far from Maricopa and Phoenix.

Gilbert is a haven for artists and other creatives, with frequent shows featuring local talent.

7. Buckeye

Population: 110,002

Number of Crimes in 2023: 1,788

Crime Rate (per 100,000): 1625.43

We’re staying in Maricopa County with this entry. Buckeye is another sizeable Phoenix suburb with a lot of flair. Hikers love the Skyline Regional Park and its 20 miles of trails, while everyone can appreciate the lower-than-average crime rate.

6. Paradise Valley

Population: 12,663

Number of Crimes in 2023: 195

Crime Rate (per 100,000): 1539.92

Paradise Valley is much safer than the average Arizona city. There were only two violent robberies in 2021. It’s not the cheapest place to live, however. The median income in this town is significantly higher than in surrounding areas.

5. Somerton

Population: 14,480

Number of Crimes in 2023: 203

Crime Rate (per 100,000): 1401.93

Somerton is on the edge of Yuma. Community ties are strong in this city, and you can entertain yourself with fun neighborhood events and parties like the Somerton Tamale Festival. The community thrives in part because local crime is low. When you’re in Somerton, it’s easy to see that it’s one of the safest places in Arizona.

4. Chino Valley

Population: 13,875

Number of Crimes in 2023: 164

Crime Rate (per 100,000): 1181.98

Chino Valley might be your dream city if you crave desert scenery and safe suburban vibes. It’s just 15 miles away from Prescott, the current capital of Arizona. Chino Valley was actually the first Territorial Capital, but the switch to Prescott occurred in 1964.

3. Florence

Population: 26,814

Number of Crimes in 2023: 251

Crime Rate (per 100,000): 936.08

Florence was founded over 150 years ago and has all of the rich history you would expect. You can spend a full day in the town just looking at the more than two dozen local buildings noted by the National Register of Historic Places.

Florence is also very safe, with a small populace and below-average crime rate.

2. San Luis

Population: 38,528

Number of Crimes in 2023: 353

Crime Rate (per 100,000): 916.22

San Luis is known both for its low crime rate and scenic natural beauty. It’s close to the California and Mexico borders, making it a great launch point for vacations. You can drive to beaches, historical monuments like the old Territorial Prison, and nearby cities.

1. Thatcher

Population: 5,369

Number of Crimes in 2023: 38

Crime Rate (per 100,000): 707.77

Thatcher seems like a regular town until you’re a resident. Then, it becomes clear why Thatcher is the safest place to live in Arizona. The small, cozy town brims with activity and neighborhood friendliness.

Summary of 10 Safest Places to Live in Arizona