13 Countries Safer Than The U.S. According To Global Risk Experts

The narrative of American exceptionalism often falters when it comes to the metric of personal safety. For years, the United States has consistently ranked significantly lower than its peers in international studies that measure peacefulness and security. The confluence of high rates of gun violence, political polarization, and societal unrest places the nation far down the list of the world’s safest places.

Global risk experts, using metrics from the Global Peace Index (GPI) and national crime statistics, highlight numerous countries that have built more stable, secure, and cohesive societies. These nations prioritize social safety nets, effective governance, and low levels of militarization, resulting in environments in which citizens feel demonstrably safer. Below are 13 countries where the average person is less likely to experience violence or systemic insecurity than in the U.S.

1. Iceland

Iceland has ranked first on the Global Peace Index (GPI) for nearly two decades, consistently demonstrating exceptionally high levels of tranquility and safety. The nation benefits from extremely low crime rates, minimal military involvement, and profound institutional trust among its tightly knit population. Its success is rooted in its highly equitable society and in its decision to maintain no standing army, focusing resources on civil services instead.

The 2025 GPI specifically credits Iceland’s “near-perfect scores” in the Ongoing Conflict and Militarisation domains for securing its position as the world’s safest nation. The country serves as a powerful model for how high social cohesion directly translates into minimal internal conflict and violence.

2. New Zealand

New Zealand is the most peaceful nation in the Asia-Pacific region, renowned for its political stability, low corruption, and a famously welcoming culture. The country continues to boast very low levels of violent crime and a highly functional democratic system, providing a predictable and secure environment for both residents and visitors.

Its remote geography further isolates it from global geopolitical flashpoints, contributing to its consistently high rankings in safety and security. New Zealand prioritizes community policing and social welfare, which experts credit with fostering high public trust and reducing societal fragmentation.

3. Ireland

Ireland has seen a continuous upward trend in global peace rankings, now consistently placing near the top due to its robust democratic institutions and low rate of domestic conflict. The nation’s global neutrality policy has historically protected it from entanglement in major international disputes, contributing to its overall feeling of security.

Strong community bonds and an improving economy have led to reductions in political terror and a high level of perceived personal safety among the populace. Ireland’s success reflects a dedication to human rights and a functioning legal system that is both transparent and effective.

4. Denmark

Famous for the concept of hygge (coziness and well-being), Denmark is designed to promote citizen safety and happiness, frequently ranking among the world’s most peaceful countries. The country benefits from low income inequality and a comprehensive social welfare system that mitigates the economic stresses often linked to crime and unrest.

Denmark consistently ranks highly for its low levels of internal conflict and citizens’ profound sense of security in their daily lives. The capital, Copenhagen, is often cited in urban safety reports as one of the world’s safest metropolitan areas across all demographic groups.

5. Austria

Austria consistently ranks highly due to its steadfast policy of neutrality and its effective domestic governance, resulting in extremely low rates of internal and external conflict. The country has a very low intentional homicide rate, a core indicator used by global organizations to assess societal safety and public order.

Its central European location and long-term commitment to non-alignment prevent the political instability seen in many other nations. Austria’s high ranking reflects its success in managing social integration and maintaining a robust, non-militarized society.

6. Portugal

Portugal is widely recognized for its high political stability, low corruption rates, and progressive approach to drug policy, all of which contribute to its overall peacefulness. The nation has one of Europe’s lowest crime rates, making it a highly desirable destination for retirees and expatriates seeking security and quality of life.

The country’s commitment to social development and domestic security has helped it steadily climb up the Global Peace Index rankings in recent years. Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, maintains a distinctly relaxed and safe atmosphere compared to other major European centers.

7. Singapore

Singapore is consistently ranked among the top safest countries globally, largely due to its ultra-low crime rates, strict rule of law, and high levels of institutional control. The city-state is noted for its exceptional performance in social safety and security, reflecting a near-total absence of violent crime and political unrest. Its robust digital governance and highly organized urban environment further contribute to a sense of predictability and order.

According to UN data, Singapore reports one of the lowest intentional homicide rates on the planet, often near 0.2 per 100,000 people, according to the latest figures. This statistic indicates a substantial difference relative to the high rates observed in North America.

8. Slovenia

Slovenia is a small but consistently high-ranking nation on global safety indexes, often placed in the very high category for its stable government and low crime. This central European country’s high safety score is attributed mainly to its dedicated police force, low income disparity, and a strong sense of national community.

Its political climate is characterized by stability, avoiding the severe domestic rifts that can fuel social unrest in larger nations. Slovenia’s excellent safety record makes it an attractive, peaceful destination within a politically complex continent.

9. Czech Republic

Czechia, located in Central Europe, ranks highly for its low crime rates and political stability, often outperforming many of its Western European counterparts. The country benefits from a strong post-Cold War democratic tradition and a population that maintains high trust in its state institutions.

Its cities are considered among the safest in the world, with Prague in particular maintaining low rates of street crime, making it a popular and secure tourist destination. Czechia’s low militarization score further underscores its commitment to peaceful domestic and international policy.

10. Japan

Japan’s safety is widely regarded as legendary, rooted in a culture of civic discipline, extremely low gun ownership, and high social trust, which results in minimal violent crime. The nation ranks fourth globally in the Societal Safety and Security domain of the GPI, reflecting exceptional public order and a functioning legal framework.

Despite its large, dense cities, Japan maintains one of the lowest crime rates among developed nations. The culture’s strong emphasis on respect and adherence to social norms plays a critical role in preserving its highly secure environment.

11. Canada

Canada consistently ranks as the safest country in North America and is a major outlier on the continent due to its comprehensive social safety nets and strong gun control laws. Its cities are generally considered safe and highly livable, with low rates of violent crime relative to those of its southern neighbor.

The country’s commitment to multiculturalism and peaceful internal politics further contributes to its stable and predictable social environment. Canada’s high ranking reflects a national value system that prioritizes public health and community well-being over militaristic solutions.

12. Finland

Finland regularly achieves top rankings in global reports, not only for safety but also for its exceptional governance, higher education standards, and low level of corruption. The Nordic country maintains extremely low rates of internal conflict and political instability, which directly translate into high levels of citizen trust and security.

Its performance in the Positive Peace Index confirms that high societal well-being and strong economic opportunity are key drivers of its sustained low crime rates. Finland’s model shows that investing heavily in social services is one of the most effective long-term strategies for creating a safe country.

13. Switzerland

Switzerland’s long-standing policy of armed neutrality and its federalized, stable political structure contribute to its perennial ranking among the world’s safest countries. Despite widespread gun ownership, the government maintains exceptional control over its weapons, leading to a notably low homicide rate compared to other nations with high civilian gun possession.

Its low corruption and excellent public infrastructure ensure a high quality of life and reliable public services, factors that underpin its domestic security. Switzerland’s consistent safety is a testament to strong democratic institutions and a national dedication to political non-intervention.