Few cities manage to combine safety, comfort, and opportunity the way Sugar Land, Texas, does. Once known mainly for its sugar industry, this thriving Houston suburb has quietly become one of the safest cities in the United States, and one of the best places for retirees over 65 to call home in 2025.
Sugar Land has earned national attention for its low crime rate, strong economy, and excellent public amenities. Beyond numbers and rankings, it’s the city’s sense of stability and community that makes it so appealing to older adults.
With mild winters, great access to health care, and an active social scene, it offers retirees the peace of mind and lifestyle balance that’s often hard to find in larger metropolitan areas. Here’s what makes it stand out, and a few other safe towns that deserve a look.
Sugar Land: safety, comfort, and connection for retirees
Located just 20 miles southwest of Houston, Sugar Land combines suburban calm with big-city access. It’s one of Texas’s safest cities, with crime rates far below state and national averages. According to recent safety data, both theft and traffic-related incidents remain notably low thanks to proactive policing and efficient city planning.
The city also shines in terms of comfort and convenience. Retirees here enjoy clean neighborhoods, well-maintained parks, and plenty of recreational options. Its Town Square is a lively hub filled with restaurants, shops, and community events that bring people together year-round.
For retirees, access to health care is a major factor, and Sugar Land doesn’t disappoint. The city is home to respected facilities like Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and is only a short drive from the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world. This proximity gives residents confidence that top-quality care is always within reach.
Housing options are diverse, too. From master-planned communities like Greatwood and Riverstone to modern senior living developments, it offers choices for every lifestyle and budget. Add in an unemployment rate around 3%, a stable local economy, and no state income tax, and it’s easy to see why so many retirees are drawn here.
Other safe and appealing spots for retirees
Beyond Sugar Land, several other U.S. cities are gaining attention for combining safety with livability and access to quality health care. Here are a few:
- Murrieta, California: Known for its peaceful suburban setting and low crime rates, it offers a slower pace with plenty of sunshine.
- Gilbert, Arizona: This clean, well-planned community offers warm weather, affordable housing, and a strong focus on safety and wellness.
- Carmel, Indiana: A model for urban design and safety, it has walkable neighborhoods and a thriving arts scene.
- Nashua, New Hampshire: A great option for retirees who prefer a cooler climate, Nashua combines low crime with a high quality of life.
- Columbia, Maryland: With extensive green spaces and top-tier medical care, it consistently ranks among America’s safest cities.
Each of these towns offers its own mix of charm and practicality, but they all share the same appeal: a strong sense of safety and a community-oriented lifestyle.