10 Safest Places to Live in Pennsylvania: Your Ultimate Guide to Secure Communities

Safety is a top priority when choosing a new home, and the 10 safest places to live in Pennsylvania offer just that—safe environments where residents enjoy peace of mind, low crime, and strong community bonds. Safety means more than just low crime rates; it encompasses personal security, community well-being, and an overall atmosphere where families and individuals thrive. This guide highlights the safest cities and towns in PA, combining data on violent and property crimes, police presence, community engagement, and quality of life.

Choosing these safest places to live in Pennsylvania assures not only physical safety but contributes to emotional peace, stable property values, and a vibrant local culture. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or lifestyle, these towns and cities stand out as examples of secure and welcoming communities.

Why Safety Should Be a Top Consideration When Choosing Where to Live

Safety profoundly impacts personal comfort and family security. Living in safe towns PA means feeling protected from violent crimes such as assault or robbery and from property crimes like burglary or theft. This security fosters emotional well-being, reducing stress and allowing residents to enjoy life more fully.

Investing in homes within low crime Pennsylvania cities also offers financial benefits. Secure neighborhoods retain property values better due to homeowner confidence and market desirability. Studies reveal that homes in safer areas experience less depreciation and attract steady real estate investments.

Safe environments promote social activities and stronger community bonds. People in the safest cities PA feel comfortable walking their neighborhoods, engaging with neighbors, and participating in local events. For families with children, this means safer routes to schools, parks, and extracurricular venues, ensuring children grow up in nurturing surroundings.

Furthermore, commuters and investors favor low crime areas for economic stability. A healthy safety profile correlates with economic growth, local job prospects, and community vitality, making these places ideal for long-term residency.

In summary, prioritizing safety when choosing a home in Pennsylvania benefits personal security, emotional health, social life, economic factors, and family well-being, establishing a strong foundation for quality living.

What Criteria Define the Safest Places to Live in Pennsylvania?

Identifying the safest places to live in Pennsylvania means evaluating several key safety factors:

Crime Rates: Violent and Property Crime

Crime rates are the primary safety indicator and are measured per 1,000 residents for standardization.
Violent crime rates include serious offenses: assault, robbery, rape, and murder. Low rates here indicate strong protection against threats to personal safety.
Property crime rates cover burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, reflecting neighborhood security and economic stability.

Police Presence and Law Enforcement

Effective policing is vital. Staffing levels, rapid response times, and proactive community policing build trust and deter crime. Towns with visible law enforcement and community liaison programs often have lower crime.

Community Engagement

Active neighborhood watches, safety education programs, regular local events, and resident participation create social cohesion that discourages crime and empowers residents.

Demographic Factors: Population and Income

Smaller to medium-sized towns with higher median household incomes tend to have lower crime levels. Economic stability reduces incentives for crime and supports better community services.

Neighborhood Characteristics

Schools, parks, street lighting, walkability, and local employment opportunities influence safety by promoting positive social interactions and reducing risk zones.

Data Sources & Grading

Safety ratings and indexes come from organizations like TALLBOX, Niche, and SafeWise, using official crime data, resident surveys, and policing metrics to ensure credible assessments.

A holistic safety profile considers all these factors rather than relying solely on raw crime statistics to identify Pennsylvania safest neighborhoods truly livable and secure.

Detailed Profiles: 10 Safest Places to Live in Pennsylvania

1. Luzerne Township

Located in Luzerne County, Luzerne Township offers a quiet suburban atmosphere with strong community connections and exceptional safety records.

• Population: ~6,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$250,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,000/month
• Median Household Income: ~$70,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Experiences four distinct seasons, with mild summers and snowy winters typical of northeast Pennsylvania.
• Economy and Jobs: Healthcare, education, and retail form the backbone of local employment.
• Educational Opportunities: Schools enjoy high ratings; proximity to Luzerne County Community College adds academic resources.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Crime is 85% below the national average, with very low violent and property crime rates. A strong police presence and active community safety programs keep residents secure.
• Ideal For: Families, retirees, and professionals who value a peaceful, secure environment.
• Known For: Quiet neighborhoods and community-driven safety initiatives.

Luzerne Township’s remarkably low crime rates and strong neighborhood engagement make it one of the top safe towns PA. It offers a balanced lifestyle combining safety with affordability.

2. Collegeville

Nestled in Montgomery County, Collegeville is a charming college town known for safety, cultural activities, and community friendliness.

• Population: ~5,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$320,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,200/month
• Median Household Income: ~$85,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Moderate Mid-Atlantic climate with warm summers and snowy winters.
• Economy and Jobs: Influenced heavily by Ursinus College and supported by small businesses, retail, and education-related jobs.
• Educational Opportunities: High-quality public schools complemented by Ursinus College, promoting a well-educated community.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Crime rates are 84% below the national average with minimal violent incidents. Strong police-community partnerships maintain security.
• Ideal For: Students, young families, and academics seeking a friendly and safe town.
• Known For: Its vibrant college community atmosphere and walkability.

Collegeville blends educational opportunities with safety, ranking it among the safest places to live in Pennsylvania with a unique, youthful edge. For community and town profiles emphasizing safety combined with educational resources, see

3. Swarthmore

This progressive community near Philadelphia is recognized for safety, strong neighborhood engagement, and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Population: ~ 6,500 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$450,000
• Median Rent: ~ $1,400/month
• Median Household Income: ~$100,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Typical four-season climate with warm summers and winters with snowfall.
• Economy and Jobs: Employment centers include educational institutions, small businesses, and service industries.
• Educational Opportunities: Home to Swarthmore College and highly rated public schools renowned for academic excellence.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Consistently earns A+ grades for safety with very low violent and property crime.
• Ideal For: Families, professionals, and college students valuing education and safety.
• Known For: Strong community events, safety programs, and quality schooling.

Swarthmore’s top-tier safety statistics and engaged community set it apart as a leading safe town PA for those prioritizing security and culture.

4. Hampden Township

A suburb of Harrisburg, Hampden Township offers a family-friendly environment with low crime and a blend of residential and commercial facilities.

• Population: ~ 17,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$280,000
• Median Rent: ~ $1,000/month
• Median Household Income: ~$70,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Typical four-season climate with snowy winters.
• Economy and Jobs: Diverse, including healthcare, retail, and manufacturing sectors.
• Educational Opportunities: Schools are highly rated with recognized statewide achievements.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Ranks among the five safest cities in Pennsylvania with minimal violent crime incidents.
• Ideal For: Families and commuters seeking suburban comfort and security.
• Known For: Active community safety initiatives and well-maintained neighborhoods.

Hampden Township offers well-rounded safety and amenities, making it a desirable spot for safety-conscious residents in Pennsylvania.

5. Upper Allen Township

Located near Carlisle, Upper Allen Township provides a prosperous, safe suburban setting with strong infrastructure.

• Population: ~20,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$350,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,100/month
• Median Household Income: ~$90,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Eastern U.S. seasons with moderate winters and warm summers.
• Economy and Jobs: Employment primarily in education, healthcare, and retail sectors.
• Educational Opportunities: Top-rated schools serve the community, known for academic excellence.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Stands out for excellent police presence and community policing programs resulting in very low crime rates.
• Ideal For: Families, retirees, and professionals desiring stability and safety.
• Known For: Economic stability and community engagement.

Upper Allen Township’s low crime and superior schools make it one of the most attractive Pennsylvania safest neighborhoods.

6. Shaler Township

A suburban area near Pittsburgh, Shaler Township combines safety with urban accessibility via good transit and community efforts.

• Population: ~ 28,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$220,000
• Median Rent: ~$900/month
• Median Household Income: ~$60,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Experiences all four seasons, including snowy winters.
• Economy and Jobs: Retail and service industries dominate local employment, with access to Pittsburgh’s job market.
• Educational Opportunities: Well-regarded schools with access to Pittsburgh’s educational resources.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Features low violent crime rates supported by an active neighborhood watch program.
• Ideal For: Families, commuters, and professionals.
• Known For: Its suburban character close to urban jobs and amenities.

Shaler offers a safe suburban lifestyle with convenient city access, ideal for those valuing security and transit options.

7. Cecil Township

acclaimed as the safest town in PA, Cecil Township boasts virtually no serious crime reports, creating unparalleled security confidence.

• Population: ~7,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$320,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,100/month
• Median Household Income: ~$90,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Moderate four-season climate with comfortable summers and winters.
• Economy and Jobs: Strong manufacturing and retail base supports economic stability.
• Educational Opportunities: Public schools consistently earn high marks.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: No reported burglaries, rapes, or murders as of 2025, placing it at the pinnacle of safety rankings.
• Ideal For: Families valuing peace, security, and community stability.
• Known For: Pennsylvania’s lowest crime rate and safe community reputation.

Cecil Township is the benchmark of safety in Pennsylvania, perfect for residents who prioritize absolute security.

8. Murrysville

A family-oriented suburb east of Pittsburgh emphasizing safety, comfort, and accessible amenities.

• Population: ~ 20,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$300,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,000/month
• Median Household Income: ~$75,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Four distinct seasons with snowy winters and warm summers.
• Economy and Jobs: Balanced with education, manufacturing, and services sectors.
• Educational Opportunities: Above-average schools contribute to safe community status.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Very low crime rates supported by community safety programs.
• Ideal For: Families and professionals looking for suburban security.
• Known For: Extensive parks and active safety initiatives.

Murrysville’s low crime levels and community resources make it a secure and appealing home base.

9. Franklin Park

A wealthy suburb of Pittsburgh combining secure neighborhoods with excellent amenities.

• Population: ~15,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$400,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,300/month
• Median Household Income: ~$110,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Typical eastern U.S. seasonal variations.
• Economy and Jobs: Dominated by professional, managerial, and skilled jobs.
• Educational Opportunities: Top-rated schools and community centers.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Low crime, strong law enforcement presence, and well-funded safety programs.
• Ideal For: Professionals and families seeking security and quality.
• Known For: Affluence, tranquil setting, and high safety standards.

Franklin Park blends affluence with peace of mind, ranking among the safest cities PA.

10. Yardley

This historic small town near Philadelphia is cherished for charm, community safety, and accessibility.

• Population: ~2,400 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$350,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,200/month
• Median Household Income: ~$80,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Four seasons with moderate temperatures.
• Economy and Jobs: Retail, arts, and commuter-heavy employment.
• Educational Opportunities: Highly regarded public schools and community programs.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Low crime rate bolstered by an active neighborhood watch and local policing.
• Ideal For: Families, retirees, and workers commuting to larger cities.
• Known For: Strong historic character and community safety.

Yardley’s low crime and community spirit make it a top pick for those seeking a secure, picturesque Pennsylvania town.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Pennsylvania Neighborhoods

What Factors Contribute to a Place Being Considered Safe?

A place is safe due to low rates of violent crimes like assault and robbery, minimal property crimes such as burglary, effective police presence with quick response times, active community engagement through neighborhood watches, strong economic conditions, and ample amenities including good schools and parks — all working together to ensure well-being.

How Reliable Are Crime Statistics for Choosing Where to Live?

Crime statistics are essential but should be viewed alongside local knowledge, long-term trends, and resident feedback. Some crimes go unreported, and localized data helps better understand true safety levels over time rather than snapshots.

Are the Safest Cities PA Also Affordable?

Affordability varies. Many safe towns have moderate costs, but high-safety areas like Franklin Park and Swarthmore command premium housing prices reflecting their desirability, amenities, and school quality.

What Amenities or Community Features Enhance Safety in PA Neighborhoods?

Features that promote safety include well-maintained schools, plentiful parks, excellent street lighting, active neighborhood watch programs, accessible and community-building policing, and economic opportunities that reduce crime incentives.

How Can I Verify Safety in Pennsylvania Neighborhoods Before Moving?

Prospective residents should review updated crime reports, visit neighborhoods during different times of day, consult online crime mapping tools, talk with current residents, and work with knowledgeable realtors to gauge safety accurately.

Conclusion: Secure Your Future in the 10 Safest Places to Live in Pennsylvania

Safety is a foundational criterion in choosing the right place to live in Pennsylvania, impacting peace of mind, family security, and overall happiness. By considering comprehensive safety metrics like crime rates, police presence, and community engagement, along with quality-of-life factors, you can make a smart, informed decision.

The 10 safest places to live in Pennsylvania highlighted here—ranging from Luzerne Township’s tranquil suburbs to Cecil Township’s unparalleled security—offer excellent options for stable, secure living. While safety is crucial, it complements other factors like affordability, amenities, and lifestyle preferences in creating your ideal home.

Choosing any of these safe towns PA or low crime Pennsylvania cities sets the stage for a future rich in comfort, community, and confidence.