Top 10 Safest Cities in Alabama

Welcome to the Heart of Dixie! From college football and Southern hospitality to major manufacturers and banking, Alabama has plenty to offer current and future residents, including retirees. Families interested in moving to Alabama may be concerned about safety, as Alabama is listed as the country’s seventh most dangerous state. But don’t be alarmed! Multiple cities boast good safety ratings that place them well above the state and national averages.

If you’re looking for your very own Sweet Home Alabama, here are the 10 safest cities in the state.

The Top 10 Safest Cities in Alabama

1. Rainbow City

• Population: 9,546
• Violent Crimes: 1
• Nonviolent Crimes: 50
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

Rainbow City citizens debate whether the city was named after U.S. Highway 411, called Rainbow Drive, or after the U.S. 42nd Infantry Division that became known as the Rainbow Division and which included a regiment from Alabama that fought in World War I. Regardless of the name’s origins, there’s no debating that Rainbow City is a safe place to live. This safe city in Alabama offers a number of beautiful sights, from the Lookout Mountain Parkway to Noccalula Falls Park.

Nestled in Etowah County in the northeast part of the state, it’s just a short drive from the city of Gadsden and less than an hour from Birmingham. Its nickname? You guessed it—”The City of Rainbows.” Whether that name comes from the natural beauty or the welcoming spirit of the place, it fits like a glove.

You’ll find parks like John S. Jones Park, perfect for a quiet afternoon stroll or an energetic weekend with the kids. For those who love the outdoors, nearby Noccalula Falls Park, with its majestic 90-foot waterfall, offers scenic hiking trails and a dose of local history. The Coosa River winds nearby, inviting boaters and anglers to enjoy a more laid-back pace of life. If you’re into something more active, local golf courses like Twin Bridges and the Gadsden Country Club offer plenty of opportunities to hit the links.

The city’s lower crime rate makes it an appealing spot for those seeking safety without sacrificing accessibility. Rainbow City feels secure without being sleepy. Schools here, like those in the Etowah County School District, are well-regarded, and for those pursuing higher education, Gadsden State Community College is just around the corner.

While you won’t find major league sports in the heart of Rainbow City, Birmingham’s got you covered with the Birmingham Barons for baseball and UAB Blazers for college football. As for healthcare, Rainbow City benefits from nearby Gadsden Regional Medical Center and Riverview Regional Medical Center, ensuring quality care is just minutes away.

Dining here may not be Michelin-starred, but it’s honest, delicious, and full of Southern hospitality. From local barbecue joints to small diners, Rainbow City’s food scene offers that home-cooked feeling you won’t find in larger cities. Shopping may lean more toward local businesses than national chains, but that only adds to the charm. Exploring nearby shopping districts in Gadsden can be a satisfying afternoon for anyone hunting for antiques or unique finds.

Live in Rainbow City where a quiet existence awaits you. This inviting locale gives the safety and serenity you crave.

2. Mountain Brook

• Population: 20,373
• Violent Crimes: 16
• Nonviolent Crimes: 228
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

Mountain Brook, Alabama, tucked right next to Birmingham in the heart of Jefferson County. It’s not far from the hustle of Birmingham, but it operates in its own calm, upscale rhythm. In fact, Mountain Brook is known as “The Tiny Kingdom,” a nickname that hints at its exclusivity, though residents will tell you it’s a kingdom built on community.

Here, streets wind through tree-canopied neighborhoods that seem more like a park than a suburb, and the city is celebrated for its well-manicured green spaces and old-world charm. A suburb of Birmingham, Mountain Brook is one of the wealthiest areas in the state. The Birmingham Zoo and Birmingham Botanical Gardens are two of its most well-known attractions. Take a walk through Vulcan Park, featuring a 56-foot statue of Vulcan, the Roman god of fire and forge who stands as a symbol of Mountain Brook’s industrial heritage.

Mountain Brook’s crime rate is impressively low, with statistics well below the national average, making it one of the safest cities not just in Alabama but across the U.S. For families looking for a place to settle, this safety—paired with top-tier schools—is a huge draw. The Mountain Brook School System consistently ranks as one of the best in the state, which is why families with young kids and teenagers often find themselves planting roots here. Single professionals enjoy Birmingham’s urban offerings. Retirees enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, knowing they’re not far from quality healthcare and cultural spots.

Speaking of healthcare, Birmingham’s medical district is just a short drive away, with UAB Hospital and Brookwood Baptist Medical Center offering some of the best care in the region. But life in Mountain Brook isn’t all about practicalities—there’s plenty to do, too. Nearby, Jemison Park is a local treasure with nature trails perfect for hiking, bird-watching, or just a morning stroll along Shades Creek. For a longer escape into nature, Oak Mountain State Park is less than 30 minutes away, offering camping, fishing, and even a golf course.

Mountain Brook Village, Crestline Village, and English Village are at the heart of the city’s shopping and dining scene. You won’t find chain restaurants here—Mountain Brook prides itself on boutique shopping and locally-owned restaurants, where you can grab a farm-to-table meal or peruse the shops without ever needing to leave town. For sports fans, Birmingham provides a fix, with the Birmingham Barons’ baseball games drawing crowds, and SEC football always within reach—Alabama and Auburn aren’t far, so college football culture runs deep here.

A refined, slower-paced lifestyle along with top-tier education, healthcare, charming shopping districts, and tranquil parks is what you will find in this Alabama city. It’s not about flash, but about substance—old money meets modern Southern charm in the best possible way.

3. Vestavia Hills

• Population: 34,368
• Violent Crimes: 30
• Nonviolent Crimes: 435
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

Vestavia Hills sits just south of Birmingham, Alabama, in the heart of Jefferson County. It’s part of the Birmingham metropolitan area, which means it offers the advantages of suburban living while staying connected to the buzz of a larger city. Downtown Birmingham is just a short drive away, making this city a perfect landing spot for those who want proximity without feeling overwhelmed by urban sprawl.

Vestavia Hills is known for its parks and outdoor activities. It is in close proximity to numerous vineyards and wineries, as well as shopping amenities like the Riverchase Galleria. Excellent schools, low crime rates, and a highly desirable quality of life attracts families of any size and shape. Safety is a big selling point here. The city’s crime rate is significantly lower than both the state and national averages, offering peace of mind to residents.

The city’s top-rated schools are a major draw, with Vestavia Hills High School consistently ranking among the best in Alabama. An easy commute to Birmingham is a major perk, along with a growing number of dining and shopping options in the area. The city’s focus on maintaining green spaces and providing top-notch healthcare facilities is a priority.

Vestavia Hills is known for its natural beauty and access to parks. You can explore Vestavia Hills’ own Wald Park, which offers playgrounds, sports fields, and plenty of walking trails. Nearby, you’ll find Red Mountain Park, a sprawling 1,500-acre urban park that’s ideal for hiking, zip-lining, and discovering a bit of Alabama’s mining history.

For those who enjoy cultural pursuits, Birmingham’s museums—such as the Birmingham Museum of Art and the McWane Science Center—are just minutes away. The city is also close to Oak Mountain State Park, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and even paddleboarding on the lakes.

There’s no shortage of entertainment options, from local theater performances to concerts in Birmingham’s lively Five Points South neighborhood. Sports fans will be happy to know that Birmingham hosts a variety of professional and collegiate sports, including the Birmingham Barons, a minor league baseball team, and the UAB Blazers football team.

Major employers in Vestavia Hills and the surrounding areas include those in the healthcare, finance, and education sectors, with a strong presence of top-tier hospitals like UAB Hospital and Grandview Medical Center. The city is also home to a range of private and public schools, and for higher education, Birmingham-Southern College and the University of Alabama at Birmingham are both close by.

Vestavia Hills is a quiet, suburban city where you can stay plugged into the cultural and professional opportunities of a major metropolitan area. Find your next new home in Vestavia Hills.

4. Daleville

• Population: 5,096
• Violent Crimes: 8
• Nonviolent Crimes: 56
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

Approximately 14 square miles in size, Daleville is a small town in the southeastern part of the state. Called the Gateway to Fort Rucker, Daleville sits adjacent to Fort Novosel (formerly Fort Rucker). This town has embraced its role as a gateway to the Army’s primary helicopter base known for its aviation training. It’s a small, tight-knit community where the rhythm of daily life is often set by the steady hum of Black Hawks and Chinooks overhead.

In addition to its high safety ratings, Daleville offers residents close proximity to the Gulf Coast. You’re about 20 minutes from Dothan, the closest large city, and under a two hour drive to Montgomery. For weekend getaways, the Gulf Coast beaches are a straight shot south, making it a convenient location with a bit of everything.

Daleville has earned the nickname “Gateway to Fort Rucker,” and it’s clear why. The city is deeply intertwined with the military. But it’s not just about the base; Daleville has a way of welcoming people with open arms, whether you’re a soldier, a retiree looking for a quiet spot, or a family in search of community. Its safety is another draw—while crime isn’t nonexistent, the rates here are lower than the national average, and the town’s close-knit nature plays a big role in keeping it that way.

Culpepper Park, a sprawling green space, offers a chance to unwind, with playgrounds for the kids and spots for a weekend barbecue. And if you’re into the outdoors, the proximity to state parks like Blue Springs or the nature trails at Fort Rucker means you’ll never run out of hiking spots or places to cast a fishing line. Entertainment is more about the pace of life—local diners, a smattering of shopping options, and the occasional festival or community event. Gather with friends and family for a fun game of cornhole.

Professionals may find the town’s connection to the military base appealing, and the larger cities nearby offer work opportunities in healthcare, education, and retail. Daleville’s healthcare system, while modest, benefits from its proximity to hospitals in Dothan, like Flowers Hospital or Southeast Health. The local public and private options do a solid job of preparing students, while nearby colleges like Troy University offer opportunities for higher education.

Daleville is about community, connection, and a quieter, safer pace of life—a small town with big heart, and for many, that’s exactly what makes it stand out from the rest.

5. Southside

• Population: 8,774
• Violent Crimes: 15
• Nonviolent Crimes: 65
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

Southside is a small but quickly growing city located on the Coosa River. It is unique for its
friendliness and Southern hospitality, a variety of recreational activities, and natural wonders. It’s a place that flies under the radar but offers a solid alternative to the hustle of larger nearby cities like Birmingham and Huntsville, both within an hour’s drive. This proximity gives Southside a balance—close enough to enjoy the amenities of a big city but far enough to preserve its laid-back, small-town charm.

The river is more than a geographical feature here; it’s the town’s lifeblood, pulling families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts to its banks year-round. For outdoor lovers, there’s an abundance of green space. Southside is near several parks and the scenic Neely Henry Lake, where fishing, boating, and picnicking are part of daily life. Nearby, Noccalula Falls Park in Gadsden offers hiking trails, botanical gardens, and, of course, the stunning 90-foot waterfall—just one of the many natural treasures in the region.

The crime rate is relatively low compared to national averages, making it a safe, attractive place for families and retirees. The tight-knit community vibe adds to the feeling of security and comfort that’s often missing in larger cities. For single professionals or those looking to escape the rat race, Southside offers a slower, more meaningful rhythm without feeling isolated.

When it comes to dining and shopping, Southside isn’t flashy, but it holds its own. You’ll find local eateries that serve up Southern favorites—think barbecue and fried catfish—alongside a few shops that cater to daily needs. For more variety, Gadsden’s shopping districts and restaurants are only a short drive away. And while Southside doesn’t have the nightlife of a major city, the sense of community here turns local events and gatherings into must-see happenings.

Southside might not have professional sports teams of its own, but Birmingham isn’t far for those who want to catch a game or concert. As for colleges, nearby Gadsden State Community College offers options for higher education, and the public schools are solid, reflecting the city’s focus on family and community values.

With safe streets, outdoor adventures, and a real sense of home, Southside is a welcoming Alabama locale for those seeking a relaxed quality of life.

6. Pleasant Grove

• Population: 10,105
• Violent Crimes: 16
• Nonviolent Crimes: 127
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

Nicknamed “The Good Neighbor City,” Pleasant Grove is a small city in western Jefferson County, approximately 10 miles from Birmingham. Pleasant Grove lives up to its name with a sense of community that’s hard to find in larger, more transient places. Its proximity to Birmingham, makes it an ideal spot for those who want to be near a metro area but prefer the quiet, suburban lifestyle.

Pleasant Grove has a reputation for being a safe, family-oriented place. It’s known for its low crime rate, especially compared to national averages. Healthcare options are solid too, with nearby UAB Hospital, a major medical center, offering top-notch services.

For those looking to escape into nature, Pleasant Grove offers quick access to several parks, including the sprawling Oak Mountain State Park just a short drive away. There, you can hike, fish, or even try your hand at mountain biking. Dining here leans toward mom-and-pop restaurants with home-cooked Southern meals that can compete with any city fare, while Birmingham, with its diverse dining and shopping options, is just around the corner. Head to Birmingham’s college scene, enjoy minor league baseball or spend time in some of the museums and cultural venues.

In a nutshell, Pleasant Grove is where you go when you want a slice of Alabama charm without sacrificing proximity to the conveniences of a larger city. The good neighbor attitude? That’s just the cherry on top.

7. Pelham

• Population: 23,785
• Violent Crimes: 36
• Nonviolent Crimes: 404
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

Pelham, Alabama, tucked into the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, is where the small-town charm of the Deep South meets the convenience of modern living. Located south of Birmingham, Pelham offers easy access to the state’s largest city while maintaining its own unique identity. In fact, you’re only about 20 minutes from downtown Birmingham. Montgomery, the state capital, is about an hour’s drive away, making Pelham a strategic hub between two of Alabama’s most important cities.

Pelham is home to Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama’s largest state park. Residents enjoy the numerous outdoors activities and the open-air Oak Mountain Amphitheatre. Whether you’re into hiking, mountain biking, fishing, or even horseback riding, Oak Mountain offers something for everyone. Families might enjoy a day at the petting zoo, while retirees could find the tranquility of the lakeside trails alluring. And for single professionals? The park’s mountain biking trails offer a weekend rush that beats any gym session.

Safety is another key feature that draws people to Pelham. Its lower crime rate sits below the national average. Residents take solace in the knowledge that they live in one of the safest areas of the state. The community here is close-knit, and it shows. Neighborhoods feel safe, streets are clean, and the sense of shared responsibility is palpable. It’s a city that hasn’t lost touch with old-school values, even as it’s grown into a bustling suburban area.

When it comes to entertainment, Pelham delivers. The Oak Mountain Amphitheatre is a regional draw, attracting major music acts to its outdoor stage and providing a social hub for the community. For more local flair, the Pelham Civic Complex offers ice skating and hockey, a fun twist in a southern town. And let’s not forget the Alabama Wildlife Center at Oak Mountain, where animal lovers can get up close with rehabilitated birds of prey.

Dining and shopping in Pelham offer a mix of local charm and convenience. You won’t find a Michelin star restaurant here, but you will find great Southern barbecue, family-run Italian restaurants, and plenty of casual spots perfect for a weeknight meal. Shopping centers like The Village at Pelham offer easy access to everyday essentials, while Birmingham’s larger shopping districts are just a quick drive up I-65.

Pelham’s schools are part of a well-regarded district, and nearby institutions like the University of Alabama at Birmingham provide higher education options for older students or adults seeking to further their careers. Healthcare is well-covered too, with Shelby Baptist Medical Center just a few minutes away and Birmingham’s world-renowned UAB Hospital.

Major employers in the area range from healthcare to manufacturing, with Pelham itself home to a mix of small businesses and larger corporations. For those interested in sports, Birmingham’s minor league baseball team, the Birmingham Barons, are just up the road, along with the city’s deep college football culture—this is Alabama, after all.

Pelham offers a little bit of everything: proximity to nature, a strong sense of community, and the convenience of being near a major city. You could move elsewhere, but Pelham’s mix of Southern hospitality and modern amenities makes it a place where, once you settle in, you might just find it hard to leave.

8. Glencoe

• Population: 5,151
• Violent Crimes: 8
• Nonviolent Crimes: 87
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

Glencoe is near the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, and like many other cities nearby, enjoys numerous outdoor activities like fishing off the Coosa River or golfing at the Silver Lakes Golf Course. Known as the City of Patriotism, Glencoe honors its 187 servicemen and women who fought in foreign wars, including World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War on every Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veterans Day.

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Alabama, Birmingham is an hour’s drive west, making it accessible. The town itself is a place where safety isn’t just a selling point—it’s woven into its DNA. Glencoe consistently boasts a crime rate lower than the national average, making it an appealing spot to put down roots.

There’s a lot to love. Noccalula Falls Park is a short drive away in Gadsden. Enjoy a scenic waterfall, hiking trails, and a petting zoo. If you’re someone who enjoys state parks, the nearby Talladega National Forest will provide you with endless trails, camping spots, and fishing opportunities.

Entertainment in Glencoe runs at a gentler pace, but that’s part of the appeal. Local diners, charming shops, and neighborhood parks like Wilson Park offer a backdrop for life that feels like a well-kept secret. When you’re in the mood for a little more action, Gadsden offers shopping and some great dining spots along Broad Street. From down-home barbecue joints to Southern-fusion restaurants, there’s no shortage of places to satisfy your cravings.

Professionals looking for work will find a mix of employers in nearby Gadsden, including healthcare, manufacturing, and retail sectors. Gadsden Regional Medical Center and Riverview Regional Medical Center provide healthcare services to the area, ensuring you’re never far from a top-notch facility.

Schools in Glencoe fall under the Etowah County School System, known for its close-knit, community-focused approach to education. For higher education, Jacksonville State University is just 40 minutes away, offering a range of academic programs for students and professionals alike.

Glencoe offers a quieter, safer, and more personal lifestyle than what you might find in the larger cities nearby. If you’re the type who appreciates a blend of natural beauty, small-town comforts, and proximity to bigger adventures, Glencoe fits the bill.

9. Daphne

• Population: 26,618
• Violent Crimes: 36
• Nonviolent Crimes: 463
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

Daphne, Alabama sits quietly on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, part of what’s called the Eastern Shore trio, alongside Fairhope and Spanish Fort. If you’re coming from nearby Mobile, it’s a quick drive across the bay, and if you’re heading up or down I-10, you’ll find it just a stone’s throw from Pensacola, Florida. Daphne has earned the nickname “The Jubilee City,” thanks to a rare and fascinating natural phenomenon where fish and crabs practically leap into people’s hands from the bay. Locals treat it like a holiday—grab your bucket and fill it with fresh seafood in minutes.

One of its many highlights is Bayfront Park, which contains both nature trails and boardwalks leading to the gulf. Daphne has the sixth lowest violent crime rate in the state, making it a great city to move to if you’re seeking both beach views and safety. This city offers a well-balanced blend of small-town charm with easy access to the larger urban amenities of Mobile. With crime rates lower than the national average, this is a safe place to call home.

There’s something deeply appealing about the local parks, like Village Point, which hosts picnics, fishing, and an easy stroll through Alabama’s coastal landscape. If you’re into history, the city offers a link to the past at the Daphne History Museum, while those looking for outdoor adventures can head to nearby Meaher State Park, where bird watching and kayaking are the name of the game. Meanwhile, golfers can hit the links at TimberCreek, a well-kept course that’s a short drive from downtown.

For those who crave entertainment, Daphne doesn’t disappoint. While Mobile might draw you for a major concert or a bustling festival, Daphne has its own collection of cool eateries, from seafood shacks to cozy cafes, not to mention Southern boutiques perfect for a casual Saturday outing. Major shopping is just down the road in Spanish Fort at the Eastern Shore Centre, a retail hub for everything from high-end fashion to homegrown Alabama products.

Healthcare options here are solid, with nearby hospitals like Thomas Hospital in Fairhope and the larger University of South Alabama Medical Center in Mobile providing top-notch care. Schools in Daphne consistently perform well. Higher education is found at Faulkner State in nearby Bay Minette and the University of South Alabama.

So why choose Daphne? You could point to its low crime, friendly neighborhoods, or its quirky Jubilee. Or maybe it’s just that blend of safety and charm, mixed with just the right dose of small-town tranquility, and the proximity to the bay.

10. Satsuma

• Population: 6,153
• Violent Crimes: 16
• Nonviolent Crimes: 77
• Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny

Located in Mobile County along the southwestern edge of the state, Satsuma was originally named Fig Tree Island, but in 1915, the town was renamed after the satsuma orange, which was introduced to the city by Japan in 1878. Satsuma is listed among the safest cities in the state in regard to property crime.

Satsuma, Alabama, sits quietly in Mobile County, about 15 miles north of Mobile. Enjoy the slow, Southern pace of life. Mobile’s right down the road, giving you access to its thriving port, culture, and entertainment. Head east, and in just over an hour, you’ll find yourself in Pensacola, Florida.

Families are drawn by the city’s reputation for safety; the crime rate here sits well below the national average. You don’t find that everywhere these days. Whether you’re raising kids, enjoying single life, or considering a quiet retirement, the crime statistics speak for themselves—Satsuma is about as safe as it gets.

For a small city, Satsuma has great outdoor spaces. Steele Creek Lodge and Park is a favorite, where fishing, picnicking, and the occasional community event bring people together. It’s got the small-town vibe where you wave to neighbors, but if you want something a little grander, the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, often called “America’s Amazon,” is just a short drive away. Kayaking, birdwatching, or just taking in the natural beauty is easily accessible.

If you’re more into entertainment and dining, Satsuma is close enough to Mobile to enjoy its diverse culinary scene without the traffic jams or hefty price tags. In Satsuma itself, you’ll find some low-key spots with hearty Southern fare like delicious shrimp po’boys.

The schools here are solid—part of the Satsuma City School District, known for its emphasis on both academics and community involvement. The University of South Alabama is just down the road in Mobile, making higher education easily accessible for both traditional students and lifelong learners. Healthcare is another strong point; there’s Providence Hospital and the University of South Alabama Medical Center nearby. And for anyone eyeing the job market, Satsuma sits conveniently close to major employers in Mobile’s port and shipbuilding industries, aerospace, and healthcare. Satsuma is the kind of town where you can enjoy a career in a larger city without giving up the perks of small-town life.

Satsuma may not be on everyone’s radar, but for those who know what they want—safety, community, and proximity to everything without the chaos—it’s an excellent choice.

Data are taken from FBI U.S. crime statistics.