Vermont Tops WalletHub 2025 Safest States List, Northeast Dominates Rankings

WalletHub's 2025 study ranked Minnesota as the 8th safest state in America, highlighting its strong performance in road safety, financial safety, and workplace safety, though noting weaker areas in personal and residential safety as well as emergency preparedness. The study assessed all 50 states using 52 key safety indicators covering violent crime rates, climate disaster losses, economic factors, and more, weighted with the most emphasis on personal and residential safety. Minnesota was the only Upper Midwest state in the top 10, with nearby Iowa ranking 12th. Vermont topped the list as the safest state, followed by Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, and Utah, while states like Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas were ranked among the least safe. The study underscores the multifaceted nature of safety, including crime rates, economic stability, road safety, and disaster preparedness, reflecting a comprehensive approach to what makes states secure for residents. Overall, Minnesota's placement reflects its commitment to public safety and community well-being amid ongoing national concerns about issues like wildfire smoke and gun violence.