Missouri has a lot to offer, including a beautiful mix of hectic metropolitan areas and tranquil countryside. The state is also noted for its lively music and rich historical connections. Still, Missouri's overall crime rates sometimes overshadow its positive aspects in public safety and security. As a result, the state might be painted in a negative light.
Besides the known vibrant parks and other cities, there is another, less busy but still safe and flourishing, Missouri. Residents in these communities are always focused on safety and the quality of life in their areas. They welcome you to their peaceful places with all the modern comforts.

A Snapshot of Safety in Missouri
Having a correct understanding of Missouri's safety requires a detailed view of the situation. The state's overall crime rate is indeed higher than the national average. The latter is frequently the result of its large urban areas. On the other hand, this overall figure conceals a very intricate and favorable situation.
Numerous cities in the state not only conform to these averages but also have crime rates that are significantly lower than the national medians. These communities are grooming places where the commitment to keep the public safe is exceptionally high. Therefore, living safely and sound is a significant characteristic of Missouri.
The Top 10 Safest Cities in Missouri for 2025
|
Rank |
City |
Violent Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents) |
Why Ranked Safest? |
|
1 |
Glendale |
3.65 |
Extremely low violent & property crime; wealthy, tranquil suburb. |
|
2 |
Greenwood |
4.74 |
Safe, country-style with very few violent crimes; close community. |
|
3 |
Savannah |
5.52 |
Lovely town by the river with practically no violent crime; remarkable historical environment. |
|
4 |
Odessa |
7.14 |
Little crime in an expanding environment; strong community bond. |
|
5 |
Cottleville |
2.23 |
Incredibly low property crime; top family destination with excellent schools. |
|
6 |
Nixa |
7.56 |
Fast progress with security; energetic spirit of the Ozark community. |
|
7 |
Lake St. Louis |
5.68 |
Recreation-oriented with safety; living on a picturesque lakefront. |
|
8 |
Eureka |
7.33 |
Adventure center with no murders/robberies; opening to Route 66. |
|
9 |
O'Fallon |
7.88 |
Wide-ranging area with people and low crime; outstanding training and learning facilities. |
|
10 |
Ballwin |
7.07 |
Long-lasting, mixed suburb; wonderful green spaces and no murders. |

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Glendale
Glendale is the perfect representation of peace in the suburbs of St. Louis County. The crime rate in this area is astonishingly low, 84% less than the national average. This wealthy neighborhood has the most stunning roads, lined with trees and houses of diverse architectural styles. It lures professionals and families who want a quiet way of life.
The inhabitants are mostly highly educated and have paid their dues. The vibrant community association is the one that connects the people most. Life in this area is silent and pretty safe, with a likelihood of a violent crime victim just 1 in 275. Glendale is like a calm oasis, only a few minutes away from the city.
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Greenwood
Greenwood is a pretty, country-like place close to Kansas City. It is safer than 71% of the cities in the U.S. combined. The community is characterized by a high level of intimacy among its residents, where everyone knows everyone. The latest data shows there were no murders or robberies in the area.
Residents live a rural lifestyle while enjoying modern comforts at the same time. They lead a slow-paced lifestyle centered around family and community. The small number of people living there accounts for its high level of safety. Greenwood is a magical place for seekers of peace and quiet.
-
Savannah
On the Missouri River's banks lies the charming historic town of Savannah. The town's violent crime rate is almost zero. The likelihood of one becoming a victim of a violent crime is only 1 in 1,691. The quaint downtown area is vibrant and has several small businesses.
The community is very much committed to its history and the riverfront location. The demographic constituency is a combination of multi-generational families and newcomers. The local events and the picturesque river view are what life is about here. Savannah is the perfect mix of safety and classic Midwestern charm.
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Odessa
Odessa offers steady growth alongside uncompromising safety measures, as its total crime rate is less than one-third of the national median. Moreover, the city maintains a "hometown" atmosphere with the residents' active participation. It is also a major rail junction with a colorful history.
Odessa real estate appreciates and has a welcoming environment as its significant advantages. The likelihood of a resident becoming a victim of a violent crime is an astonishingly low 1 in 2,803. The city of Odessa demonstrates that a more vibrant community can be built around safe and secure living conditions for residents.
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Cottleville
Cottleville is a kid-friendly town characterized by excellent education. The city has an impressive record of a 92% lower property crime rate compared to the national average. Cottleville is not only famous for its active nightlife but also for hosting an annual festival that draws thousands to the city. This combination of events results in a lively atmosphere where people of all ages can participate.
The city's demographic consists mainly of young families and working professionals. Here, the community's health and safety are the primary concerns. With just 13 crimes occurring in the area throughout the year, it guarantees the most secure place to live. To raise children, Cottleville is a perfect candidate.
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Nixa
Nixa is a booming and fast-growing center of life in the Ozarks. It has a low incidence of violent crimes, even though it is undergoing rapid development. The social life is quite lively, and the residents express this through their unique "Nixa Name" tradition. The city combines the ease of suburban life with the attractiveness of being economically active.
The population is quite varied, with a notable increase in young families. The city is situated so visitors can easily reach the lakes and hiking trails in the Ozarks. Thus, Nixa is a city that successfully balances not only growth but also the safety of its community. It is a great place to live if you want a secure future in a vibrant place.
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Lake St. Louis
Lake City is centered around its beautiful lake, which lends it its name. It is a place that is 35% safer than other American cities. This place is characterized by water sports, golf, and outdoor dining in a pleasant setting. The community is vibrant and socially involved.
Both the retirees and families are part of the population. The well-kept neighborhoods and the shopping malls are taking over the whole area. The combined city presents a beautiful view and a good safety record. Lake St. Louis provides an atmosphere similar to a resort all year round.
-
Eureka
Eureka is the adventure gateway to Six Flags and Route 66. It is a tourist spot, but its safety is also impressive. The latest FBI report showed the city had no murders or robberies. It perfectly manages an environment of fun and safety.
The population consists of a blend of people who have long lived there and those who work in the hospitality industry. The city has a downtown area that shows its roots on Route 66. The occurrence of violent crime is one in 1,637. Eureka is a secure base from which to visit Missouri's most well-known attractions.
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O'Fallon
O'Fallon is a perfect example of how a large city can still be a safe place. Although it has almost 95,000 residents, its crime rates are very low. Among other things, it reported no murders, which is a sign of effective community policing and civic engagement. The city has plenty of parks and excellent schools.
The population consists of people from various backgrounds, and there is a significant number of military families. A strong job market and many amenities are the reasons people move in. Life here takes the best of both worlds: the convenience of a big city and the safety of a small town. O'Fallon is a model of how large-scale community living can be done right.
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Ballwin
Ballwin has been an established neighborhood in the St. Louis area and still is a welcoming suburb to all. It is highly regarded for its excellent public schools and extensive park system. The city reported no murders, and crime rates of violence and property are very low. The place is very stable and secure.
The suburb's population is a diverse mix of cultures and ethnicities. Residents experience a top-notch standard of living with convenient access to city jobs. The long history gives rise to a strong sense of pride and belonging in the community. All in all, Ballwin is an extremely attractive option for people looking for a safe and dependable refuge.
Source: NeighborhoodScout, AreaVibes

Proactive Safety for Missouri Residents
The big advantage of living in a safe neighborhood is peace of mind. Safety can be improved through modern technology. Everything can be guarded using proactive measures. They are, in fact, an essential layer of confidence added to your daily life.
For Comprehensive Home Security
Theeufy ExpertSecure System E10 is an all-in-one security package. It is made up of two security cameras, an alarm system, a smart doorbell, and sensors. The system gives professional monitoring around the clock, offering constant peace of mind. Real-time alerts about the property are received from any location. In case of emergencies, professionals can take quick action.
For Robust, Localized Protection
Theeufy PoE NVR Security System S4 Max has four top-notch cameras. Each of the three-lens cameras can simultaneously record wide-angle and close-up views. They are cooperating in discovering and tracking motion smartly around the house. Its local AI is skilled in recognizing people and cars. As a result, only the real threats get alert notifications tailored to them.
Don't Forget the Front Door
The front door is usually the first place package thieves will go. The video doorbells are a good way to keep an eye on this weak point. You can see and talk to the guests from anywhere. It may appear to be a simple device, but it is a powerful deterrent to crime.
Participate in Community Gatherings
Engage with your neighbors and community fellows and participate in local efforts for reducing crime rate. It not only keeps you updated about the recent incidents, scams, and laws, but also gives you an upper hand to ensure your safety and security. You get a chance to talk to the authorities and share your thoughts and advice to make your city a better place.
FAQs
What is the safest city in Missouri?
Currently, Glendale stands out as one of the safest places in the United States and Missouri. Its crime rates are significantly lower than the national averages, making it a perfect place for those wanting to live in a calm suburban atmosphere.
Is St. Louis as dangerous as they say?
St. Louis, on the other hand, has more pronounced crime rates. The violent crime rate there is 259% higher than the national average. Nevertheless, the suburbs adjacent to it, particularly Glendale and Ballwin, have surprisingly low crime rates.
Which part of Missouri is best to live in?
The suburbs of St. Louis, such as O'Fallon and Ballwin, are perfect places to live. Besides being safe, they also have good schools and other convenient facilities. A city like Nixa in the Ozarks region is another option for living with high-quality standards.
Summary
Missouri’s safety map is both diverse and rich, having several secure neighborhoods scattered around its cities. The quiet suburbs of Lake St. Louis, such as Glendale and Ballwin, and the developing hub of Nixa in the Ozarks, all have low crime rates along with a good quality of life. They support the argument that safety is not just a figure, but a matter of community, family pleasures, and tranquil living.

