Recognized as the dairy capital of the United States, Wisconsin produces more milk than any other state. It’s also famous for its tremendous waterway systems: It has more than 14,000 lakes and nearly 7,500 streams and rivers. Add in its 47 state parks and 13 state forest and wildlife sanctuaries and you have the ingredients for an outdoors enthusiast’s dream. On top of that, housing costs are about 9 percent lower compared to other states, making Wisconsin great for retirees. If you’re interested in making Wisconsin your next address, let’s see which communities are the safest there.
The "Safest Cities" series evaluates and ranks the safest cities in each U.S. state using crime data from the FBI and state databases. Our analysis considers population size, violent and nonviolent crime rates, the most common crime, and comparisons to national and state averages. Violent crimes include homicide, assault, robbery, and sexual assault, while nonviolent crimes encompass burglary, theft, and vehicle-related offenses. Each city’s safety score is weighted, emphasizing violent crimes. Data inconsistencies and reporting variations are acknowledged as limitations. This analysis aims to help individuals and families make informed decisions about where to live.
The Top 10 Safest Cities in Wisconsin
1. Oconomowoc
Population: 8,692
Violent Crimes Per Capita: 41.5
Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 789.3
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
68% Below National Crime Rate
Oconomowoc WI, sits almost perfectly between Milwaukee and Madison, making it an enviable spot for those who want access to two of Wisconsin’s major cities while living in a lakeside town. This small city is found in Waukesha County’s Lake Country, a region famous for its sparkling lakes and natural beauty. Oconomowoc means “waterfall,” and serenity is what you’ll find in this idyllic community. The most popular pastime is visiting Fowler Lake Park.
An effortless blend of small-town charm and abundant outdoor recreation greet you in Oconomowoc. Fowler Lake and Lac La Belle create a stunning backdrop for the city and provide year-round activities, from kayaking and fishing to ice skating in the winter.
Downtown Oconomowoc is an attraction in itself, with historic architecture, boutiques, and local favorites. There’s a sense of pride in keeping the area pristine and welcoming, and events like the Oconomowoc Festival of the Arts and the city’s summer Lakefront Park concerts bring the community together.
Safety is a key part of the city’s appeal, with low crime rates and strong community programs supporting a family-friendly environment. The Oconomowoc Police Department is proactive with neighborhood watch programs and partnerships with local schools to foster a safe environment for all ages. With dedicated community services, residents feel supported and safe—a quality that has contributed to the city’s reputation as one of the more desirable places to live in the region.
When it comes to healthcare, Oconomowoc residents benefit from ProHealth Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital right in town, offering a range of specialties and emergency care. For more comprehensive care, larger medical facilities in Milwaukee, including the renowned Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin, are within easy reach.
As for families, it’s no secret that schools play an instrumental role when deciding where to relocate. Fortunately, the town is known for its top-rated schools. Educationally, Oconomowoc is served by the well-regarded Oconomowoc Area School District, which is known for its academic programs and supportive community. The proximity of colleges such as Carroll University and Marquette University provides convenient options for higher education.
Fall in love with a warm, safe community. Oconomowoc gives you the perks of lake life with urban amenities close by.
2. Lake Geneva
Population: 5,032
Violent Crimes Per Capita: 0
Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 457
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
37% Below National Crime Rate
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, is the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret, tucked into the southeastern part of the state with its breathtaking lakeside views. Just an hour and a half from Chicago and less than an hour from Milwaukee, Lake Geneva’s location makes it a natural retreat while keeping the amenities and excitement of two major cities within reach.
Known as the “Newport of the Midwest,” this city has earned a reputation as a luxurious getaway, filled with historic mansions, scenic beauty, and an endless variety of activities. Geneva Lake itself is the town’s crown jewel, with its clear waters perfect for sailing, fishing, and swimming in the summer, and its 21-mile shoreline path offering unmatched views of the grand lakeside estates.
For those who prefer to stay on land, the charming downtown area has unique shops, art galleries, and beloved spots where you can grab a locally sourced breakfast before starting your day. Annual events like Winterfest and the U.S. Snow Sculpting Championship make Lake Geneva a destination for both tourists and residents throughout the year.
Safety in Lake Geneva is a point of pride, with a strong community police presence and a supportive network of neighborhood associations and safety programs that add to the peace of mind here. Crime rates are low, and community engagement is high. Health care needs are covered by nearby Aurora Lakeland Medical Center in Elkhorn and larger facilities in Milwaukee, ensuring high-quality care is always within reach.
The Lake Geneva School District is well-regarded, with schools that emphasize community values, strong academics, and a commitment to each student’s success. Those seeking higher education have options nearby, with colleges like Carroll University in Waukesha and Marquette University in Milwaukee offering a wide range of programs. Lake Geneva also has a reputation for excellent private schools.
Lake Geneva offers a uniquely Midwestern blend of leisure and luxury that feels both welcoming and timeless. It’s an easy place to fall for—a city with the character of a resort town and the warmth of a close-knit community.
3. Mukwonago
Population: 8,146
Violent Crimes Per Capita: 74.7
Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 1,419.0
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
42% Below National Crime Rate
Another safe community in Wisconsin is Mukwonago Town, southwest of Milwaukee. This charming town is set in the heart of southeastern Wisconsin, about 30 minutes southwest of Milwaukee. Surrounded by farmland, forests, and rivers, Mukwonago has become a quiet haven for those who want the convenience of a major city within a short drive while enjoying a slower pace of life at home. Its name, rooted in the Potawatomi word “mequanego,” means “place of the bear,” nodding to the area’s Native American heritage and the wilderness that still defines its landscape today.
Safety is one of Mukwonago’s biggest assets, with a low crime rate and a close-knit community that looks out for one another. The local police department works closely with residents, offering community programs that add to the overall sense of security. Healthcare needs are well-covered with ProHealth Waukesha Memorial Hospital nearby and easy access to larger medical centers in Milwaukee.
You’ll find plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities here with nearby Lulu Lake State Natural Area. The Fox River winds through town, offering year-round fishing, kayaking, and peaceful waterfront views. Mukwonago is well-known for its parks and outdoor spaces, like Mukwonago County Park, with its hiking trails, swimming beach, and picnic areas, as well as Phantom Lake, which draws locals for summer boating and fishing. Annual events, such as Maxwell Street Days and the Mukwonago Fall Festival, keep the local spirit lively and give residents a chance to gather and celebrate their town.
Education is well-supported in Mukwonago, with the Mukwonago Area School District. The district’s schools are highly rated, and parents here appreciate the small class sizes and dedicated teaching staff. For those looking at higher education, nearby Waukesha has Carroll University, while Milwaukee’s array of colleges and universities offers an even broader range of academic opportunities.
Looking for rural charm meets suburban amenities? In this safe community, connections run deep. Give this Wisconsin town a second look!
4. Cedarburg
Population: 11,469
Violent Crimes Per Capita: 26.2
Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 470.8
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
81% Below National Crime Rate
Cedarburg , Wisconsin, is the sort of town that feels like stepping into a postcard. Located about 20 miles north of Milwaukee, Cedarburg has made a name for itself as one of Wisconsin’s most picturesque small towns, and its residents wouldn’t have it any other way. Known as an artisan’s haven. The downtown historic district is packed with boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and craft shops that make a casual afternoon feel like a day trip.
Enjoy a strong community and local pride. The town is known for its festivals, especially the Strawberry Festival and Wine & Harvest Festival, which draw crowds from across the state and highlight local crafts, food, and music. Cedarburg School District is consistently ranked among the best in the state and healthcare is top-notch, with Columbia St. Mary’s Ozaukee Hospital only a few minutes away, and Milwaukee’s larger hospitals accessible in under half an hour.
Cedarburg is also highly regarded for its safety and low crime rates, which contribute to its appeal for families and retirees alike. The community values wellness and security, with a well-respected police department and active neighborhood associations.
Cedarburg is a town that manages to combine the best of small-town life with a creative, welcoming atmosphere that has a way of charming all who call it home.
5. Muskego
Population: 25,118
Violent Crimes Per Capita: 35.8
Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 569.3
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
76% Below National Crime Rate
This Milwaukee suburb is surrounded by three lakes and is just miles from Lake Michigan, so loving the water might be a prerequisite. Muskego, Wisconsin is a lively lakeside city that sits about 20 miles southwest of Milwaukee, known for its abundant natural beauty and outdoor activities. With over 5,000 acres of lakes and parkland, Muskego residents are out on the water in the summer and hitting the hiking trails in fall. The city’s slogan, “Room to Grow,” reflects both its scenic openness and the steady growth of its residential and recreational spaces.
The centerpiece of Muskego’s outdoor offerings is the trio of lakes—Muskego Lake, Little Muskego Lake, and Big Muskego Lake—that define the area. These lakes are hotspots for boating, fishing, and swimming, and Little Muskego Lake in particular has a strong community vibe, with its public beach and family-friendly events throughout the year. Muskego County Park, with its swimming beach, picnic areas, and trails, makes for an ideal outdoor escape.
Muskego is known for its safety, with consistently low crime rates and a well-organized local government that supports community policing and safety programs. Healthcare access is easy, with nearby hospitals like ProHealth Waukesha Memorial and Aurora Medical Center Summit ensuring quality care is close to home.
The Muskego-Norway School District is well-regarded for its academic rigor and supportive environment. With Milwaukee just a short drive away, residents can also enjoy the benefits of city life—arts, sports, dining—without sacrificing the peace and natural beauty that Muskego offers.
Muskego’s blend of lakeside tranquility, active outdoor life, and close community makes it a rare find, perfect for anyone seeking a safe, balanced life in Wisconsin.
6. Delavan
Population: 5,322
Violent Crimes Per Capita: 18
Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 695
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
66% Below National Crime Rate
Delavan, Wisconsin is full of unique history, breathtaking lakes and spacious parks, and if you desire the big city, Milwaukee isn’t too far away. Overall, this community has high marks in everything from housing to schools to diversity. Nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, about an hour from Milwaukee and near the Illinois border, Delavan has a unique, small-town charm with an edge of intrigue. The town’s location on Delavan Lake draws both locals and visitors, making it a hot spot for water activities and scenic views.
Delavan’s community feel is unmistakable, with a steady lineup of local events, such as the Delavan Scarecrow Fest in fall and Venetian Fest in summer. The downtown area has preserved its historic architecture, while still keeping things fresh with a range of shops, local breweries, and cozy cafes. The Delavan Lake area is dotted with cottages, resorts, and parks, perfect for fishing, boating, and summer relaxation. For those who like outdoor adventures, the nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest offers miles of trails, camping, and unbeatable views year-round.
Safety is a priority in Delavan, and the community benefits from a low crime rate, which adds to its family-friendly appeal. Healthcare needs are covered with Mercyhealth Hospital and Medical Center just a short drive away in Lake Geneva, and major medical facilities in Milwaukee provide additional options.
Delavan’s schools are part of the Delavan-Darien School District which ensure that students here get a well-rounded education. Nearby colleges in Madison and Milwaukee offer options for higher education.
When you are looking for an enjoyable life by the lake, Delavan measures up. It’s an appealing, safe spot for families, retirees, and young professionals.
7. Hartland
Population: 9,302
Violent Crimes Per Capita: 32.3
Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 655.8
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
73% Below National Crime Rate
Hartland, a suburb of Milwaukee, is considered one of the best places to live in Wisconsin. Hartland, Wisconsin, located about 30 minutes west of Milwaukee in the heart of Waukesha County, is a small town with big appeal. Not only does the village rank significantly below the national crime rate, but the majority of residents have attained some level of higher education.
Safety in Hartland is excellent, with low crime rates and an active police force focused on community-based programs. Healthcare is well-covered, with ProHealth Waukesha Memorial Hospital and Aurora Medical Center Summit nearby, ensuring residents have easy access to quality medical services.
Take advantage of an excellent school system, Arrowhead Union High School District, which is one of the top-rated school districts in the state. Known for strong academics, competitive sports, and a wide range of extracurriculars, the schools here are a point of pride for the community and a draw for families. Those pursuing higher education have options in nearby Waukesha, Madison, and Milwaukee, keeping Hartland students connected to Wisconsin’s best colleges.
It’s nestled along the Bark River, with beautiful lake country right nearby, making it a destination for people who want the peace of suburban life but still crave easy access to the outdoors and to Milwaukee’s urban attractions. Parks and green spaces, such as the popular Nixon Park, feature sports fields, a splash pad, and access to the Bark River. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail winds its way through town, making it ideal for hikers and nature lovers.
Hartland also has a series of community events and festivals, like the Hartland Hometown Celebration in the summer, which brings residents together and creates a close-knit feel that’s hard to find in larger cities. Consider this safe spot for its welcoming, Wisconsin atmosphere.
8. Grand Rapids
Population: 7,385
Violent Crimes Per Capita: 27
Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 663
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
60% Below National Crime Rate
For a small town, Grand Rapids takes the cake. This central Wisconsin town has carved out its own reputation as a peaceful, close-knit community. Located just south of Wisconsin Rapids and about 40 minutes from Stevens Point, Grand Rapids offers a blend of small-town friendliness and easy access to nature. It’s bordered by the Wisconsin River, which brings plenty of outdoor recreation, with kayaking, fishing, and scenic riverside trails.
Safety is one of the standout features in Grand Rapids, where the low crime rate is a strong point of pride. The community has a well-respected local police department and programs that encourage neighborhood involvement and volunteer work, contributing to the area’s overall security. For healthcare, the town is just a quick drive from Aspirus Riverview Hospital in Wisconsin Rapids, with additional options in Stevens Point and Marshfield.
Grand Rapids is served by the Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools, which have a reputation for supportive teachers, strong academics, and a variety of extracurricular activities. Residents have access to Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids for higher education, while larger universities in Stevens Point and Marshfield are within commuting distance.
For anyone looking to enjoy Wisconsin’s central beauty without giving up community and convenience, Grand Rapids is a town that checks all the boxes.
9. Hobart-Lawrence
Population: 14,667
Violent Crimes Per Capita: 47
Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 470
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
72% Below National Crime Rate
Home to wide open spaces and tranquility, Hobart-Lawrence is a community in the rolling hills southwest of Green Bay. Although the names “Hobart” and “Lawrence” might sound like separate places, together they create a tight-knit and welcoming environment just 15 minutes from Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers. Hobart-Lawrence combines the best of rural charm with suburban convenience. Here, residents enjoy scenic farmland, quiet neighborhoods, and an array of local parks while still having easy access to the dining, shopping, and entertainment options of Green Bay.
What makes Hobart-Lawrence unique is its strong sense of identity and community involvement. This area is part of the Oneida Nation, and residents celebrate a rich history and cultural heritage through events, museums, and art. The local Oneida Nation Museum offers a fascinating look at Native American history and culture, while Hobart’s community events, like the Hobart Fall Fest.
Safety is another point of pride for Hobart-Lawrence. The area has a reputation for being peaceful, with a low crime rate and active community programs that keep neighborhoods safe. For healthcare, residents are close to top-notch facilities, including Bellin Health and Aurora BayCare Medical Center in Green Bay, ensuring quick access to advanced medical services.
Schools in Hobart-Lawrence are served by the Pulaski Community School District, which is highly regarded for its academic programs and supportive learning environment. Families and young professionals find this area appealing for its balance of quiet living and proximity to Green Bay, while retirees appreciate the peace, local culture, and easy access to amenities.
10. Appleton
Population: 22,006
Violent Crimes Per Capita: 72
Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 372
Most Common Crime: Property and Larceny
82% Below National Crime Rate
Appleton, Wisconsin, is one of those cities that combines big-city amenities with Midwestern friendliness, making it one of the most appealing spots in northeastern Wisconsin. Nestled along the Fox River, Appleton is about 30 minutes from Green Bay and a little over an hour from Milwaukee, giving it easy access to Wisconsin’s major urban centers.
Known as the heart of the Fox Cities, Appleton is unique for its lively downtown, cultural scene, and connection to the outdoors. With the nickname “The Paper Valley,” Appleton boasts a rich history in the paper industry, and today it’s a vibrant mix of industry, education, and the arts.
Appleton is a city that’s always moving, with events like the Mile of Music festival drawing crowds for days of live performances, while its downtown district offers an array of shops, eateries, and theaters. The Trout Museum of Art and the History Museum at the Castle add cultural depth. The city has multiple parks and the popular Fox River Trail, which winds along the water and attracts walkers, runners, and cyclists year-round.
Appleton’s safety profile is solid, with a relatively low crime rate and a community that supports strong public safety programs. For healthcare, residents have access to Ascension NE Wisconsin and ThedaCare Regional Medical Center, both offering comprehensive services and specialty care.
Education is a major highlight here, with highly rated public schools in the Appleton Area School District and several private schools providing diverse educational options. Lawrence University, a respected liberal arts college, adds a touch of academia to the city and contributes to Appleton’s vibrant cultural and intellectual life.
Appleton’s appeal lies in its dynamic mix of outdoor activities, cultural offerings, and strong community spirit, making it an ideal choice for those that want the best of both worlds in Wisconsin.
Other Wisconsin Resources
Top 10 State Parks in Wisconsin
Best Tiny Home Builders in Wisconsin10 Best Places to Live in Wisconsin
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Home in Wisconsin
The Top 10 Most Affordable Cities in Wisconsin
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Wisconsin
Heather Allen
Heather Allen is a freelance writer who began her career 20 years ago at a small Texas NBC affiliate, while attending SFASU. She’s written blogs on a diverse range of topics.