Safety is one of the most important aspects when picking where to spend your retirement. Feeling secure matters as much as good amenities and climate. For many retirees, finding a safe, welcoming place to retire is a must.

Here, we’ll look at some top US cities known for their safety, with a special focus on what makes Gilbert, Arizona, stand out. We’ll also highlight other secure places across the country, each offering different lifestyles for your golden years.

Gilbert, Arizona: sunshine and security for your retirement

Gilbert consistently ranks among the safest cities in the US. This Phoenix suburb offers retirees a great mix of safety, sunshine, and amenities. The crime rate is lower than the national average, with just 1.5 incidents per 1,000 residents.

Keep in mind that the cost of living is about 12% above the national average, mainly due to housing. Healthcare and utility costs are slightly below average, and retirees benefit from access to top-rated hospitals and senior services throughout the Phoenix metro area.

With close to 300 sunny days a year, you can stay active outdoors hiking or spending time at scenic spots like the Riparian Preserve, which has trails, an observatory, and wildlife viewing. Summers get hot, often topping 100°F, but the mild winters—usually around 65°F—make up for it.

Neighborhoods like Power Ranch and Silver Creek are walkable and community-focused. Power Ranch includes over 26 miles of trails, parks, a fishing lake, and events like farmers’ markets and trivia nights. Silver Creek has a resort-style vibe with a heated saltwater pool, citrus trees, and open green spaces. Downtown’s Heritage District adds local charm with restaurants, shops, live theater, and a weekend farmers market.

Other safe retirement spots in the US

Gilbert isn’t the only safe city worth looking at in the US. Here are a few more places that combine low crime with strong appeal for retirees:

Nashua, New Hampshire: Located by rivers, Nashua combines scenic views, history, and low crime. Its stable economy and reasonable cost of living make it a solid New England option.
Ridgefield, Connecticut: Set in the Berkshire foothills, Ridgefield offers well-kept neighborhoods and a strong community vibe.
Olathe, Kansas: Known as a family-friendly city, Olathe appeals to retirees with its vibrant community and affordable living costs compared to many safe cities.
Franklin, Massachusetts: Known for housing the first public library in the US, it features well-maintained infrastructure and a stable local economy
Simi Valley, California: This Ventura County suburb provides a peaceful setting with clean neighborhoods and manageable traffic. Its safety and Southern California access are definite advantages.
Surprise, Arizona: Another safe spot near Phoenix, Surprise offers a family-friendly feel, a solid economy, and nearby universities like Midwestern University. It’s affordable and has plenty of recreational options.

Each of these places stands out for more than just low crime and safety—they provide strong local services, social connections, reliable infrastructure, and a pace of life that suits retirement. Review them carefully and choose the one that fits your lifestyle and priorities best.