Between the flashy lights of Las Vegas, Area 51 buzz and a massive gold production industry, Nevada is an iconic state that needs no introduction. With these thrilling (and, let’s face it, risky) themes of gold and glory in mind, it can be difficult to imagine calling the Silver State your new home. Nevada indeed places in the lower half of the safest American states, ranking 40th place overall.
Despite this score and being the birthplace of America’s “Sin City,” Nevada also boasts a number of cities where the crime rate is low and the opportunities are vast. After analyzing factors like violent crimes and property crimes per capita for areas with over 2,000 inhabitants, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 safest cities in Nevada.
The Top 10 Safest Cities in Nevada
1. Boulder City
- Population: 16,112
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 8.6
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 19.5
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
61.3% Below National Crime Rate
Boulder City comes in at the top spot as Nevada’s safest city for 2020. One of just two cities in the state that don’t allow gambling — a probable contributor to the lower crime rate — Boulder City has no shortage of outdoor activities, including kayaking, ziplining, and visiting the famous Hoover Dam. If you’re searching for a quaint city to call home, the Silver State’s safest spot could be the perfect place for you.
2. Mesquite
- Population: 19,055
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 10.2
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 26.2
- Most Common Crime: Propertyand Larceny
32.6% Below National Crime Rate
At the northwest border of Arizona lies Nevada’s second safest city — Mesquite. Known for its championship golf courses and gorgeous resorts, this city is perfect for lovers of the outdoors. Mesquite’s low crime rate and small town feel are a big draw for those in favor of the quiet life. The picturesque city also boasts a growing community for retirees, making Mesquite a safe option for those looking to settle down long-term.
3. Henderson
- Population: 309,586
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 11.5
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 29.6
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
16.3% Below National Crime Rate
Henderson is Nevada’s second largest city with a population of around 310,000. As a suburb of Las Vegas, it’s close enough to the delights of Sin City while still offering a safer and more “small town” living experience. Henderson’s motto is “A Place to Call Home” and with its ranking for third safest city in Nevada, we’d say the slogan rings true.
4. Winnemucca
- Population: 7,832
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 19.7
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 30.5
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
5.1% Below National Crime Rate
With nicknames like “oasis in the desert” and “Nevada’s friendliest town,” it’s no surprise that Winnemucca comes in as the state’s fourth safest city. Winnemucca was named for the chief of the Northern Paiute Tribe, members of which traditionally inhabited the area. If you’re hunting for a safe spot to enjoy the scenic views of Nevada, Winnemucca might be just the town for you.
5. Elko
- Population: 20,764
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 28.4
- Non-Violent Crimes Per Capita: 53.3
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
0.9% Above National Crime Rate
Elko’s population is growing rapidly, and with a high household income and a low cost of living, it’s easy to see why. Home to vast ranches, gambling, and gold mining, this town lives on as a little piece of the Old West. Looking for a bit of cowboy charm in your next hometown? Elko is the way to go.
6. Carlin
- Population: 2,319
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 42
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 22.1
- Most Common Crime: Violent and Aggravated Assault
4.3% Below National Crime Rate
Carlin has a rich history, originally serving as a campsite for Gold Rush miners in the mid-1800s and seeing a boom thanks to the Transcontinental Railroad. Still today, the area houses two of the largest gold mines in North America, ironically making the Silver State one of the world’s top gold producers. Even with its impressive role in the gold industry, Carlin still retains a pleasant, small town ambiance with only about 2,300 inhabitants.
7. West Wendover
- Population: 4,290
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 49.1
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 47.4
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
8% Above National Crime Rate
Seventh on the list comes West Wendover, located right at the border of Nevada and Utah. This little town made its way to the top safest spots in Nevada this year due to its record low property crime rate and a moderate decline in violent crime. If you enjoy wide-open terrain and the casino scene, consider West Wendover for your next home.
8. North Las Vegas
- Population: 246,951
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 45.1
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 35.7
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
19.6% Above National Crime Rate
At the upper edge of the Las Vegas Valley lies North Las Vegas, a thriving city that is a separate entity from Las Vegas proper. While Sin City might hold more attractions, North Las Vegas also has plenty of excitement to offer, including the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, a variety of gaming venues, and endless outdoor activities. Not to mention that North Las Vegas is also safer than it’s more famous counterpart, holding the sixth lowest property crime rate in the state.
9. Sparks
- Population: 102,354
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 24.4
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 39.4
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
12.1% Above National Crime Rate
Sparks is a mid-sized city with lots to offer, including a great suburban community for families. Because of its proximity to Reno (aka “The Biggest Little City in the World”), Sparks residents can easily find nearby activities while keeping enough distance for a more peaceful atmosphere. The city itself also hosts some fun and family-friendly events like the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off and Hot August Nights for classic hot rod cars, backing up Sparks’ motto of “It’s Happening Here!”
10. Las Vegas
- Population: 1,644,390
- Violent Crimes Per Capita: 40.9
- Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 43.4
- Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
34.1% Above National Crime Rate
Finishing off the list is the Entertainment Capital of the World: Las Vegas. Widely renowned for its vibrant nightlife, Las Vegas is Nevada’s most famous and populous city. One of Vegas’ biggest draws, The Strip, offers endless nights full of possibility, ranging from exhilarating casinos and live performances to luxurious shopping and dining. If adventure is what you’re after, look no further than Las Vegas.
All data taken from FBI U.S. crime statistics.
Other Nevada Resources
Katherine West is a writer for NewHomeSource.com and HomLuv.com, where she contributes articles related to home and lifestyle. Her absolute favorite topic to write about is interior design. She is also a former media intern for Builders Digital Experience (BDX). Katherine attends Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas, where she is pursuing a degree in psychology with a minor in mass communications. In her free time, she enjoys creating digital art, reading and anything involving music and film.
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