SmartAsset Ranks Virginia Beach the Safest Large U.S. City in 2026 Study
Virginia Beach, Virginia, has been ranked as the safest big city in America according to a 2026 study by SmartAsset. The study evaluated 83 U.S. cities with populations over 250,000, using metrics such as violent crime rates, property crime rates, traffic fatalities, and disaster risk. Virginia Beach stood out with low violent and property crime rates, and a relatively low disaster risk rating. In contrast, Memphis, Tennessee, was identified as the least safe city, with high crime rates and a significant disaster risk. The study also highlighted Texas as a state with cities in both the safest and least safe categories, showcasing the diverse safety profiles within the state.