Colorado, the state of awe-inspiring beauty, is a canvas painted with lush forests, majestic mountains, and breathtaking canyons. Despite its vast expanse, it cradles a population of just over 5.7 million souls.
Between the years of 1980 and 2010, Colorado experienced a population boom, swelling by a staggering 75% over three decades. However, the growth took a breather in 2010, slowing down considerably.
Colorado is a haven of safety, with a murder rate that’s reassuringly low, standing at 5.1 per 100,000 people, comfortably below the national average of 6.5. More than half of the population, 54% to be precise, express a sense of security living in Colorado.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The state does grapple with a property crime rate that’s higher than the national average, with a 2.6% chance of falling victim. This is a factor that has somewhat dampened the population growth.
But don’t let that deter you! Colorado is home to numerous safe cities that are ideal for nurturing a family or basking in the tranquility of retirement. If you’ve been contemplating a move to Colorado, but have been slightly put off by the property crime rate, let me introduce you to the 10 safest cities in the state.
These cities have been ranked based on their murder, violent, and property crime rates. Let’s embark on a journey to explore each one in more detail!
10 Best Cities To Live
| City | Population | Average Median Income | Murder rate (/100,000 people) | Violent crime rate (/100,000 people) | Property crime rate (/100,000 people) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frederick, CO | 14,238 | $100,057 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 1.0 |
| Milliken, CO | 7,978 | $72,101 | 0.0 | 0.1 | 3.6 |
| Severance, CO | 5,362 | $99,375 | 0.0 | 0.4 | 2.8 |
| Lamar, CO | 7,619 | $37,554 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 10.8 |
| Firestone, CO | 15,558 | $97,102 | 0.0 | 0.4 | 8.2 |
| Eaton, CO | 5,690 | $77,762 | 0.0 | 0.5 | 7.2 |
| Cherry Hills Village, CO | 6,734 | $250,000 | 0.0 | 0.4 | 11.0 |
| Castle Rock, CO | 67,208 | $104,642 | 0.0 | 0.4 | 14.3 |
| Erie, CO | 26,523 | $119,973 | 0.0 | 1.1 | 9.0 |
| Dacono, CO | 6,074 | $67,524 | 0.0 | 0.8 | 11.4 |
10. Dacono, CO
Dacono, our tenth contender, is a charming town with a population just north of 6,000. It’s a place of averages – from its population to the median income of $67,000, the climate, and recreational activities. The crime rates, both violent and property, are a tad higher than the other cities on this list.
The violent crime rate stands at 0.8, and the property crime rate is 11.4. Despite a slight increase in property crime rates from 5.5 in 2019 to 11.4 in 2021, Dacono retains its charm as a close-knit community where everyone knows everyone, making it harder for crime to go unnoticed.
| Population | 6,074 |
| Average Median Income | $67,524 |
| Murder rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Violent crime rate | 0.8/100,000 people |
| Property crime rate | 11.4/100,000 people |
9. Erie, CO
Erie, a city of 26,563 people, is the only one in our top ten with a crime rate of 1.1 per 100,000. While this might seem high, it’s not alarming compared to the rest of the country. With only 28 violent crime cases reported this year and a property crime rate of 9.0, Erie remains a safe haven.
Once a bustling coal town, Erie has transformed into a serene rural town, perfect for families seeking a peaceful life.
| Population | 26,523 |
| Average Median Income | $119,973 |
| Murder rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Violent crime rate | 1.1/100,000 people |
| Property crime rate | 9.0/100,000 people |
8. Castle Rock, CO
Castle Rock, the most populous city on our list, has the highest property crime rate. However, the violent crime rate of 0.4 is not a cause for concern.
Despite the high property crime rate, Castle Rock has seen a steady decline in both violent and property crime rates over the years, earning its place in the top 10 safe cities.
Named after a famous butte near the town’s center, Castle Rock is a cozy place with beautiful parks, lovely canyons, and friendly locals.
| Population | 67,208 |
| Average Median Income | $104,642 |
| Murder rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Violent crime rate | 0.4/100,000 people |
| Property crime rate | 14.3/100,000 people |
7. Cherry Hills Village, CO
Cherry Hills Village is a gem, known for its high median income of $250,000. It’s one of the 100 richest cities in the US and offers a high-quality lifestyle with lush parks, upscale restaurants, and quaint cafes.
While the violent crime rate is 96% below the national average, the property crime rate is a bit high for Colorado. However, it’s still low compared to other American cities.
| Population | 6,734 |
| Average Median Income | $250,000+ |
| Murder rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Violent crime rate | 0.4/100,000 people |
| Property crime rate | 11.0/100,000 people |
6. Eaton, CO
Eaton, a small city with a population of 5,690, boasts a 0.0 murder rate, making it an ideal choice for families.
The violent and property crime rates are 60% lower than the national average. Eaton is a city rooted in agriculture and is known as an irrigation center.
| Population | 5,690 |
| Average Median Income | $77,762 |
| Murder rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Violent crime rate | 0.5/100,000 people |
| Property crime rate | 7.2/100,000 people |
5. Firestone, CO
Firestone, sharing a border with Frederick, the safest city in Colorado, has seen a 50% population increase since 2010. With a decent median income of $97,000, a low crime rate, and no murders in 2021, Firestone is a safe and welcoming city.
Named after landowner Jacob Firestone, it’s a city rich in history and offers 35 beautiful parks, the famous Legacy Trail, and three elementary schools, making it an ideal place for families with young children.
| Population | 15,558 |
| Average Median Income | $97,102 |
| Murder rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Violent crime rate | 0.4/100,000 people |
| Property crime rate | 8.2/100,000 people |
4. Lamar, CO
Lamar, a city that may not have standout features but is a safe and welcoming haven. With recreational facilities like a local golf course, swimming pool, fishing ponds, and a Skate Park, it offers a vibrant lifestyle for both adults and children.
The city boasts a 0.0 violent crime rate, with only two crimes reported in a year. However, the property crime rate is slightly higher at 10.8 per 100,000. The median income in Lamar is around $38,000, which may be modest for Colorado, but it’s a standard wage across the United States.
| Population | 7,619 |
| Average Median Income | $37,554 |
| Murder rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Violent crime rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Property crime rate | 10.8/100,000 people |
3. Severance, CO
Named after its pioneer settler, David Severance, this tiny city of 5,362 residents exudes a rural, homely feel. The local public schools are excellent, and the city prides itself on a non-existent murder rate and low crime rates.
The total crime rate is 86% lower than the national average, making Severance a safe haven. Despite a slight increase in crime rates in 2020, they dropped back down in 2021.
| Population | 5,362 |
| Average Median Income | $99,375 |
| Murder rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Violent crime rate | 0.4/100,000 people |
| Property crime rate | 2.8/100,000 people |
2. Milliken, CO
Milliken, maintaining its position as the second safest city in Colorado, has shown resilience even during the nationwide spike in crime in 2020.
The city has seen a positive trend in crime rates, with the violent crime rate dropping to an all-time low of 0.1 in 2021. Milliken, though small, is surrounded by larger towns, offering the best of both worlds – a small-town atmosphere with easy access to bigger city amenities.
| Population | 7,978 |
| Average Median Income | $72,101 |
| Murder rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Violent crime rate | 0.1/100,000 people |
| Property crime rate | 3.6/100,000 people |
1. Frederick, CO
If safety is your top priority, Frederick is the place to be in Colorado. With a 0.0 murder rate and only a handful of reported crimes, Frederick tops our list.
The city has seen a consistent improvement in safety over the years. Frederick, a city of fewer than 15,000 residents, is a close-knit community where most people know each other.
With new resident welcome kits, job opportunities, and regular neighborhood meetings, Frederick is an attractive option for new homeowners.
| Population | 14,238 |
| Average Median Income | $100,057 |
| Murder rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Violent crime rate | 0.0/100,000 people |
| Property crime rate | 1.0/100,000 people |
How to Stay Safe in Colorado
Colorado boasts a commendable safety record when it comes to violent crime, securing the 18th spot on the list of US states with registered firearms, with over 112,000 guns.
To give you a sense of scale, Texas, which tops this list, has 725,000 registered firearms. However, there’s a flip sideโColorado ranks 38th in terms of property crime.
So, how can you safeguard yourself? Consider installing security systems, motion sensor lights, and a protective fence around your property. Ensuring your vehicles are locked and not leaving valuables like firearms or electronics inside can significantly reduce the risk of theft.
Another challenge for Colorado residents is the threat of natural disasters, particularly wildfires during the summer months. It’s advisable to stay connected with local authorities for real-time updates on potential disasters, safety tips, and information about emergency shelters in your area.
Additionally, it’s wise to have an emergency kit at the ready. To safeguard your property, remove dead trees and shrubs that could fuel a fire, and keep your gutters and roof clean. If you choose to settle in any of the cities on our list, you’ll likely find yourself more concerned about natural disasters than crime.
FAQ
How is the crime rate in Colorado compared to the national average?
Colorado has a lower murder rate than the national average, standing at 5.1 per 100,000 people compared to the national average of 6.5. However, the state has a higher property crime rate than the national average.
What measures can be taken to stay safe?
To stay safe in Colorado, consider installing security systems, motion sensor lights, and a protective fence around your property. It’s also advisable to stay connected with local authorities for real-time updates on potential disasters, safety tips, and information about emergency shelters in your area.
What is the population of Colorado?
As of the last census, Colorado has a population of just over 5.7 million people.
What are the income levels?
The average median income varies across the safest cities in Colorado. For instance, Cherry Hills Village has a high median income of $250,000, while Lamar has a modest median income of around $38,000.
What natural disasters are common in Colorado?
Colorado residents often face the threat of natural disasters, particularly wildfires during the summer months. It’s advisable to stay prepared with an emergency kit and follow safety measures to protect your property.
How has the population growth changed over the years?
Between the years 1980 and 2010, Colorado experienced a population boom, growing by 75%. However, the growth slowed down considerably after 2010.
What is the impact of crime rates on population growth in Colorado?
The property crime rate, which is higher than the national average, has somewhat dampened the population growth in Colorado. However, more than half of the population, 54%, express a sense of security living in Colorado.
Final Words
In conclusion, Colorado is a state that offers a blend of natural beauty and safety, making it an attractive place to live. Despite a higher property crime rate than the national average, the state’s murder rate is reassuringly low.
Many cities in Colorado, such as Frederick, Milliken, and Severance, are considered safe havens, boasting low crime rates and community-oriented environments.
These cities are ideal for families and individuals seeking a peaceful retirement. However, residents should be prepared for potential natural disasters, particularly wildfires, and take necessary precautions to protect their property.
Overall, Colorado’s safety, combined with its scenic landscapes, makes it a desirable destination for many.
