Thinking about retirement often conjures images of sunny Florida. However, if personal security is your top priority, a brilliant alternative awaits up north. Based on Amber’s analysis of 2025 safety data and statistics from related civic agencies, Nashua, New Hampshire, emerges as the safest city for retirees in the US, with strong ties to community well-being and public health initiatives.
Here, we’ll explore why Nashua tops the list for safety-conscious retirees over 65. We’ll examine its low crime rate, affordable living conditions, and overall livability, including access to quality health care and community centers, and then highlight other safe cities for retirees. Let’s begin.
Nashua, the safest city for retirees
Nashua, New Hampshire, provides a secure and inviting environment ideal for retirement. Amber’s study designated it as the safest US city for 2025, thanks to its low combined crime rate of just 1.57 incidents per 1,000 residents. For seniors, this means genuine peace of mind, enabling them to enjoy daily walks, run errands, and participate in community events and cultural activities without unnecessary concern.
Beyond the impressive safety statistics, Nashua offers a range of practical benefits that enhance its appeal for retirees. The cost of living remains moderate, with average monthly rent ranging between $600 and $900. The city is well-connected through bus services, car travel, and a modest commuter rail system, which, along with nearby hospitals, libraries, and recreational centers, simplifies daily living.
Nashua also boasts a quality of life score (7.1/10) and captivates with scenic views along the Nashua and Merrimack Rivers. Its lower population density compared to large metropolitan areas creates a more tranquil atmosphere.
Very few traffic complaints and minimal theft, coupled with a robust local economy—evidenced by a low 2.8% unemployment rate—reinforce its reputation as a secure and supportive community. The combination of safety and that classic New England charm makes Nashua ideally suited for a relaxed and fulfilling retirement.
Other highly safe US cities worth considering
Although Nashua holds the premier position in safety, numerous other US cities offer outstanding security and community support for retirees. Here are some of the main ones:
- Columbia, Maryland: Offers a well-planned community near DC with a low crime rate (2.36 per 1,000), cultural centers, parks, and easy access to health care facilities. The cost of living is expensive.
- Ridgefield, Connecticut: A smaller, scenic New England town known for its exceptionally low crime rate (1.9 per 1,000) and a high quality of life supported by historical sites, community events, and well-maintained public spaces, though costs are higher.
- Port St. Lucie, Florida: A solid Florida alternative to Miami, this city presents lower costs, competitive safety statistics (31.4 per 1,000), and that sought-after warm climate paired with an active senior community where 90% of residents feel safe.
- Irvine, California: Renowned for its master-planned design and state-of-the-art safety measures, it offers excellent amenities that contribute to a very high quality of life, though it comes at a higher price.
- Overland Park, Kansas: Consistently ranked among the top safe cities in the Midwest, it features a strong local economy, low unemployment (2.9%), and a range of family and retiree-friendly services, from community centers to accessible healthcare.
These cities show that secure retirement living is available across diverse regions and climates. Whether you prefer the historical charm of New England, the inviting warmth of the South, the close-knit community of the Midwest, or the innovative amenities of the West Coast, prioritizing safety does not require sacrificing your lifestyle preferences or modern health care and community support systems.