Where to Find Affordable Living in America: 15 Cities with Low Crime Rates Worth Considering

Looking for a place where you don’t have to choose between safety and affordability? The United States has more options than you might think. A comprehensive analysis of crime statistics and living expenses has identified 15 cities with low crime rates and surprisingly reasonable costs, offering a sweet spot for budget-conscious residents seeking peaceful communities.

The Geographic Pattern: Why Certain States Dominate

One striking finding: Ohio dominates the list with seven cities making the top 15. This Midwestern state consistently delivers on both fronts—reasonable home prices paired with lower violent crime rates. Other strong performers include Texas, Indiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Illinois, suggesting that affordable neighborhoods with low crime aren’t confined to a single region.

The Most Budget-Friendly Options (Under $37,000 Annually)

San Elizario, Texas - The True Bargain

With a total annual cost of living of just $36,738, this town of 10,123 residents stands out as one of America’s most economical places. Average single-family homes run $167,333, and monthly mortgage payments average $989. The violent crime rate sits at an impressive 0.10 per 1,000, making it genuinely safe despite the low price tag.

New Philadelphia, Ohio - Best Overall Value

This Ohio city of 17,563 balances affordability with livability (76/100 rating). Annual living costs are $35,549, with homes averaging $186,258. The violent crime rate of 0.69 per 1,000 remains well below national averages, while property crime at 1.50 per 1,000 indicates a secure community.

New Ulm, Minnesota - The Safe Choice

Minnesota’s entry onto the list combines an excellent livability score of 82 with an exceptionally low violent crime rate of 0.29 per 1,000—among the lowest across all 15 cities. With 14,066 residents and annual costs of $36,361, it appeals to those prioritizing community safety.

Mid-Range Cities ($36,500–$42,000 Annually)

The next tier includes solid options like:

• Parma Heights, Ohio ($36,575 annually; violent crime: 0.39/1,000)
• Yorktown, Indiana ($37,332 annually; violent crime: 0.42/1,000)
• Berea, Ohio ($37,768 annually; livability: 77/100)
• Mount Vernon, Ohio ($37,928 annually)
• Columbus, Indiana ($40,402 annually; violent crime: 0.19/1,000)
• Butler, Pennsylvania ($40,446 annually)
• Trenton, Michigan ($41,641 annually; livability: 86/100)

These cities with low crime maintain violent crime rates below 0.50 per 1,000, with some notably lower. Trenton, Michigan particularly stands out with a livability score of 86—the highest in its price bracket.

Premium Budget Options ($42,000–$45,000 Annually)

For those willing to spend slightly more, these cities offer enhanced amenities and larger populations:

• Hamilton, Ohio ($42,726 annually; population: 63,124)
• Orono, Maine ($44,036 annually; violent crime: 0.18/1,000)
• Brunswick, Ohio ($44,251 annually; livability: 78/100)
• North Ridgeville, Ohio ($44,415 annually)
• Edwardsville, Illinois ($45,323 annually; livability: 90/100)—the highest livability score on the entire list

What Makes These Places Different?

The common thread among all 15 cities with low crime isn’t coincidence. These communities share characteristics: stable populations (ranging from 10,000 to 63,000 residents), active community engagement, and local investment in public safety infrastructure. Property crime rates, while varying, generally remain manageable (most below 6.50 per 1,000).

Home values range from $167,333 in San Elizario to $313,398 in North Ridgeville, offering flexibility across different financial situations. Monthly mortgage payments span from under $1,000 to under $1,900, making homeownership genuinely attainable.

The Bottom Line

Whether you prioritize maximum affordability or optimal safety ratings, these 15 American cities demonstrate that budget and security don’t have to be mutually exclusive. The data—compiled from FBI crime statistics, U.S. Census data, and housing market analysis as of February 2025—shows viable alternatives to expensive urban centers while maintaining the community safety most people seek in their neighborhoods.