The 12 Safest Places to Live in Ohio

Nestled along the southwestern coast of Lake Erie, Ohio shares a border with Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, and Michigan. From the Ohio State Buckeyes to the Browns and Bengals, the notorious swing state is known for its football, some of the best chili recipes, and as the birthplace of the Wright Brothers. But above all, it’s known as an idyllic place to raise a family. This is because some of the safest places to live in Ohio are also some of the friendliest and most scenic in the country!

12. New Philadelphia

Based on statistics from the U.S. Census, New Philadelphia is ranked in the top half of places to buy a home and retire in Ohio. Of course, this makes plenty of sense, with a crime rate of just one victim per 1,000 residents! As one of the safest communities in the Buckeye State, New Phila offers more than just security. With the picturesque coziness that is the very definition of small-town charm, the city is also rich in history.

New Phila is the county seat of Tuscarawas County, with a population of more than 17,000 residents. Median home value comes in at $158,800. However, New Phila is quite affordable, with an average rent of $810 compared to the national average of $1,268. Nevertheless, the majority of residents (62%) own their homes. Still, despite all there is to appreciate, New Phila is not even the safest place to live in Ohio.

11. Ada

Situated approximately 70 miles southwest of Toledo, the city of Ada is located in Hardin County. Of course, it makes the list of safest places in Ohio due first and foremost to its incredibly low crime rate. As of 2023, Ada boasted a crime rate that is more than 60% lower than the national average! With lush green parks, a modest cost of living, and phenomenal schools, the area is a pristine spot for both families and professionals. The median home value in Ada is $157,500 as of January 2024.

10. Seven Hills

With a population of 11,700 and a median home value of about $183,200, Seven Hills is not just a quaint city but reasonably affordable as well. While these things might make the area a great place to live, you’re likely wondering if it’s safe. Seven Hills comes in as the 10th safest place in the state with a crime rate of only 664 per 100,000. This means that the suburban gem has a crime rate 69% lower than the national average. However, the charm of a small town hiding inside a sizable city makes Seven Hills an attractive place to thrive.

9. Brecksville

This suburb of Cleveland is located in Cuyahoga County, with a population of 13,618. Listed as one of the best places to live, it is also one of the safest, with a crime rate for assault of just 22.3 per 100,000. Even with non-violent and property crimes factored in, Brecksville still comes in well below the national average. With a median household income of $122,546, it’s unsurprising that most residents own their homes. The city was recently rated #24 out of 547 for places with the best public schools in Ohio. Brecksville is rated safer than 80% of U.S. neighborhoods.

8. Hudson

Known for being an instrumental part of the Underground Railroad, Hudson is hailed for helping countless slaves escape to Canada. Today, it is one of the safest suburbs of Akron. According to CrimeGrade.org, the crime rate in Hudson is, on average, 11.09 per 1,000 residents. Situated in Summit County, the city has a population of 23,110, 72% lower than the state average. As of January 2024, the median home value is $467,500. Hudson is a friendly hub of community events, robust dining experiences, and an active downtown scene.

7. Kirtland

With an impeccable sense of community reflective of its modest population (6,937 residents), the small city of Kirtland is adored for its scenery. Located a little south of Lake Erie, residents can visit the beach or go hiking in one of many areas throughout the area. Other than providing scenic beauty, Kirtland is also known as one of the safest places to live in Ohio. The crime rate is 75% below the Ohio average, with a total of just 529 per 100,000 residents.

6. Waterville

Welcome to the home of the Interurban Bridge! This piece of history was constructed in Waterville in 1908 as a vital part of the town’s development. Nevertheless, the area’s history is only one of the reasons it’s number six on this list. Holding a crime rate of 517 per 100,000 people in a town with a population of just 6,000 means Waterville is one of the safest places in not only Ohio but also the nation. Waterville is located near Toledo in Lucas County.

5. Rocky River

Much larger than Waterville, Rocky River is a gorgeous city thread alongside the shores of Lake Erie. With a median home price of $216,000, the city is a hot spot for lovers of the outdoors. The lakeside city provides boat and kayak access and well-maintained, scenic hiking trails for every type of adventurer. However, it is still a reasonably large city with a population of 21,755. Still, despite the greater populace, the crime rate is a whopping 78% lower than the average in Ohio at only 470 per 100,000 residents.

4. North Ridgeville

Sitting in Lorain County, the city of North Ridgeville is home to the Riddell production center. This is where both NCAA and NFL equipment is produced. With numerous parks and scenic recreation areas, North Ridgeville also has a population of 35,380 and a crime rate of 363 per 100,000. The city is one of the safest in the state as this crime rate equates to 83% below the Ohio average.

3. Olmstead Falls

Tied with North Ridgeville, Olmstead Falls also has a crime rate 83% lower than the state average. However, this Cuyahoga County city comes in third with 360 per 100,000 people. Home to the historic district of Grand Pacific Junction, Olmstead Falls is highlighted by much of Ohio’s 19th-century history. Located close to Cleveland, the median household income in Olmstead Falls is $81,153. This makes it not only one of the safest cities but among the most affordable as well.

2. Sagamore Hills

As the second safest area in the state, Sagamore Hills in Summit County has a crime rate of about 35.7 per 100,000; 91% lower than the national average. Besides its safety, Sagamore Hills is one of the most scenic places to live in Ohio. Situated on the outskirts of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the city of approximately 11,000 residents boasts a variety of outdoor activities for every nature enthusiast!

1. Broadview Heights

Here it is, the safest place to live in Ohio! Broadview Heights ranks number one as a suburb of Cleveland, with 19,242 residents. Among the population, the city has a crime rate of just 110 per 100,000 residents. This number brings the area in with a rate 95% lower than the statewide average. The median home value is reportedly $317,600, making it less than affordable. But with an incredibly high-rated school system and an active community theatre scene, the cost of living is no surprise. Regardless, Broadview Heights is hands-down the safest place to live in Ohio.

Summary of the Safest Places to Live in Ohio

The photo featured at the top of this post is © © Marisa Allegra Williams/iStock via Getty Images