A new analysis finds New Hampshire is the second-safest state in the U.S. and ranks number one for “personal and residential safety.”
“New Hampshire is the second-safest state, in large part because it has very little violence,” says Wallethub, which releases “safest state” rankings every year. “For example, New Hampshire had the fewest mass shootings between June 2022 and June 2024. The state also has the second-fewest murders and nonnegligent manslaughters per capita, and the fewest aggravated assaults per capita. On top of that, the state is also very safe from nonviolent crime, with the second-fewest thefts per capita.”
It’s just the latest ranking putting the Granite State at or near the top in the U.S. on metrics ranging from most inexpensive place to have a baby to the “best taxpayer return on investment.”
And, as Gov. Chris Sununu (R) often points out, it’s number one on the “Freedom Index” issued by the libertarian Cato Institute.
Asked about the new analysis, Sununu said, “Yet another ranking showing New Hampshire offers our residents the best quality of life in the country. Your personal freedom starts with your personal safety. Many thanks to the law enforcement community who helps make this ranking possible!”
Crime has been a hot topic in the race for governor, with Republican Kelly Ayotte hitting former Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig on crime, homelessness, and drug use during her time running the Queen City. Craig claims violent crime in Manchester fell by about 40 percent on her watch.
According to Wallethub, the news for Granite Staters when it comes to personal safety is all good.
“Over 78 percent of people in New Hampshire feel that they live in safe neighborhoods, the highest percentage in the country. More than 76 percent feel that their children go to safe schools, the seventh-highest percentage. Part of this can naturally be attributed to low rates of violence, but there are other factors at play as well, such as the fact that New Hampshire has the most neighborhood watch groups per capita.
Finally, New Hampshire residents enjoy financial safety. The state has a 2.9 percent unemployment rate, one of the lowest in the country, along with the lowest poverty rate. That has helped residents largely stay current on their bills and has helped them achieve the second-best average credit score in the country, at 748. That’s well into the excellent credit range!”
