Study: Safest Cities in Wisconsin 2016
Wisconsin is a great place to settle down if you're in search of friendly people and scenic surroundings. It's even greater if you choose to live in one of the state's safest cities.
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| Safest Cities in Wisconsin © CreditDonkey |
If you’re curious about whether your hometown scores a top ranking for safety, you’ve come to the right place.
Wisconsin is feeling safer in general. Between 2013 and 2014, property crime in the Badger State declined by 4.3% and burglaries were down 12.9%, according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report data.
There are many communities in Wisconsin to choose from, but we narrowed it down to the very best. These 50 cities in Wisconsin are where both property and violent crime are least likely to be a nuisance to residents. The following guide breaks down each city by the numbers so you can see just how safe they are.
Study Methodology
The size of a city and its crime rate tend to go hand-in-hand, with crime occurring less frequently in smaller cities. For our study, we focused on Wisconsin cities with a population of 5,000 or more.
Our rankings are based on the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report for 2014. We zeroed in on the overall property and violent crime rates for each city as well as two individual crimes: burglary and robbery. We chose to consider burglary and robbery specifically because these are the kinds of crimes that occur more frequently and are typically of most concern to residents.
To come up with the 50 safest cities, we used the following indicators:
- Number of violent crimes per 1,000 residents
- Number of robberies per 1,000 residents*
- Number of property crimes per 1,000 residents
- Number of burglaries per 1,000 residents*
Based on these four criteria, we assigned each city a CreditDonkey safety score. The 50 Wisconsin cities that made it into our rankings had the best safety scores overall. We’ve listed them here according to their score, with a lower crime and safety score resulting in a higher ranking (the rankings range from 50 to 1, with one being the safest).
* We took a close look at robbery and burglary rates since those types of crimes are what tend to get people sleeping with one eye open. Keep in mind robberies also fall under the violent crime category, and burglaries fall under property crime.
Safest Cities 2016: Rankings
50. Middleton
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime 1,000: 15.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.5
Middleton’s motto is “The Good Neighbor City,” and it’s that sense of community that continues to draw in new residents. The city’s population has grown twice as quickly as the rest of the country since 2010, making it one of Madison’s larger suburbs. From the Pheasant Branch Conservatory to the National Mustard Museum, there are plenty of safe places to explore.
49. Reedsburg
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 17.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.5
The city of Reedsburg is a quiet, close-knit community of around 9,500 souls situated about 65 miles northwest of Madison. Crime isn’t something residents see much of — in 2014, there were zero robberies and just two burglaries reported. Reedsburg is popular with folks of all ages, and its rural setting is an ideal backdrop for raising a family or enjoying your golden years.
48. Plymouth
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 16.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.5
Despite being on the smaller side, Plymouth is a thriving city that features a rich local history and a solid economy. The combination of safe neighborhoods and affordable housing make it particularly appealing to retirees, who represent nearly 20% of the population.
47. West Salem
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime 1,000: 4.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.5
With 5,023 residents, the village of West Salem, the smallest community to make our list, is overflowing with charm. Crime is a rarity, with only one robbery and 10 burglaries reported in 2014. Hiking and fishing are favorite pastimes, but if you’d rather do some shopping or check out an amusement park, the larger city of La Crosse is just a short drive away.
46. Delavan Town
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 15.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.5
Delavan is another small town to make our rankings, with a population of around 5,300 people. Delavan Lake is one of the city’s most appealing features and come summer, it’s a hotspot for boating and fishing. The Delavan Police Department routinely patrols the waters as well as the streets to ensure residents are staying safe.
45. Fort Atkinson
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime 1,000: 14.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.4
Fort Atkinson’s location on the Rock River and its abundance of historical attractions make it a major draw for tourists, but it also gets a big thumbs up from the 12,000 or so people who live here full-time. The city is family-friendly, although it also attracts an older crowd who prefer a safe place to call home.
44. Hales Corners
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 16.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.0
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.4
Excellent schools, beautifully maintained outdoor space, and a low crime rate are just some of Hales Corners’ best attributes. The village police department is committed to protecting the safety of its citizens and that’s evident when you look at the numbers. For 2014, Hales Corners reported a single robbery and eight burglaries total.
43. Sturgeon Bay
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 14.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.2
The city of Sturgeon Bay is an historic harbor city at the end of Sturgeon Bay, and it’s not to be confused with the much smaller town of the same name. The infrequence of crime is just one factor that contributes to the overall quality of life residents enjoy. Between the parks, beaches, museums, and walking trails, there’s no opportunity for boredom to set in.
42. Elkhorn
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 13.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.0
“Living in Harmony” is the motto in Elkhorn, and that’s something residents seem to do quite well. Only one robbery made the books in 2014, along with 16 burglaries, which can be chalked up in part to the Elkhorn Police Department’s community policing approach.
41. Verona
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.6
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 14.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.0
Verona is a bustling suburb of Madison, located about 12 miles southwest of the state capital. Over the last few years, the city has become a magnet for young families who are in search of top-notch schools, quiet neighborhoods, and an overall sense of safety. Home prices are slightly higher here, but the median household income is also higher, at more than $81,000 annually.
40. Plover
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 13.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.0
Plover is one of Wisconsin’s larger villages, but that doesn’t work against it when it comes to crime. In 2014, there was one robbery reported, along with 20 burglaries, which is a positive for homeowners. The Plover Police Department is diligent about patrolling the city by car, bicycle, and occasionally on foot to keep an eye out for suspicious activity.
Plover is safe and prosperous because of the citizens who have been willing to lead and then share unselfishly a common vision. Citizens who have been able to bring others together in a way that builds pride and encourages teamwork. These people who have stepped up and sacrificed their valuable time to attend village board meetings, committee, commission and community events. These dedicated people who have spent countless hours not only listening to what their neighbors’ concerns are but also who are willing to be the voice of concern and reason for others. Citizens who recognize the talents of those around them and then empower the right people in positions to carry out the vision.
Success is accomplished by establishing a goal then empowering, equipping, inspiring, and collaborating a team of committed people.
Plover is safe because the people of Plover have taken pride in their community and while holding each other accountable remain supportive of those they have empowered. Plover is safe and successful because the people of Plover care and have sacrificed in so many ways to ensure that Plover grows in a positive fashion. The citizens through their involvement recognizing concerns before they become unmanageable and then not being afraid to make the hard decisions necessary to keep Plover on the right track.
Plover is safe because of involved and committed citizens, capable and competent leadership and dedicated employees who are respected and valued.
Chief Dan Ault, Village of Plover
Did you know:
The Police Department is looking to implement a K-9 program (purchase a dog and provide training for the dog’s PD handler)and will begin fundraising later on this month. We see great benefit for this program in the Village and feel it will be another way to positively interact with the community, while also serving various policing function in the Village (i.e. drug detection).
The Police Department looks to engage our community in a positive manner on a daily basis. Whether that is through involvement in our schools through a community policing officer, stopping at various businesses to chat with customers and business people, communicating with Village residents through Facebook, participating in programs that help the community (like Cops and Bobbers, Shop With a Cop, and the newly established Halloween Party at the Department), or whether that is engaging with the public in a positive manner when it comes to matters of the law, there is a strong focus to know, understand, and work with our community.
That strong commitment by the Plover Police Department to be part of, and work with the community, along with our citizens involvement in maintaining a safe community are reasons why we feel Plover is safe...
Dan Mahoney, Village of Plover Administrator
39. North Fond du Lac
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 12.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 4.0
Adjacent to Lake Winnebago, North Fond du Lac is roughly 75 miles north of both Milwaukee and Madison. This sleepy little village of just over 5,000 people is home to a number of families and retirees. The local Ride Along program gives residents 18 and older the chance to see firsthand how the North Fond du Lac Police Department keeps the city safe.
38. Whitefish Bay
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 12.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.8
Crime isn’t something the residents of Whitefish Bay deal with on a regular basis. In 2014, there were just four violent crimes total, one of which was a robbery. The Whitefish Bay Police Department works tirelessly to keep crime to a minimum and, judging by the low crime rate, it’s paying off.
37. Milton
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime 1,000: 11.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.8
The city of Milton is all about family, friends, and community. While it’s steeped in historic tradition, it also has an eye on the future. Though not officially a suburb of Madison, it’s still within driving distance of the capital, which may be a plus for professionals who prefer a low-key escape when the working day ends. Charming homes and safe neighborhoods add to its allure.
36. Caledonia
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime 1,000: 11.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.8
With nearly 25,000 residents, Caledonia falls in the top five as far as the largest cities in our rankings goes. Being a bigger city isn’t a negative where crime is concerned, with four robberies and 54 burglaries reported in 2014. At less than 20 miles from Milwaukee, it’s especially well-suited for commuters and families who favor a suburban lifestyle.
35. Twin Lakes
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime 1,000: 11.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.8
Twin Lakes gets its name because of the two lakes that lie within the village’s limits — Lake Elizabeth and Lake Mary. Just over 6,100 people live here, but the city sees a fair amount traffic each winter from tourists who set out to hit the slopes at nearby Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort. The Twin Lakes Police Department keeps a lid on crime year-round, ensuring that the village maintains its reputation for safety.
34. Kaukauna
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 12.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.8
The city of Kaukauna reported zero robberies for 2014, which is pretty remarkable considering that nearly 16,000 people call it home. With a motto like “The Friendly City,” it’s easy to see why residents seem so at ease in their surroundings. The Kaukauna Police Department does its best to maintain that serenity through programs like Neighborhood Watch, Business Watch, and Crime Stoppers.
33. Fox Point
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.4
- Property crime 1,000: 11.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.7
Fox Point sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, about 11 miles north of Milwaukee. As a smaller community, you’d expect crime to be uncommon and the city doesn’t disappoint. Fox Point registered three robberies and eight burglaries in 2014, with fewer than 100 violent and property crimes combined. Reasonably priced housing and a low cost of living are the icing on the cake.
32. Chippewa Falls
- Violent crime per 1,000: 2.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 10.4
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.5
When describing Chippewa Falls, words like “picturesque” and “tranquil” automatically come to mind, but “safe” is another accurate way to sum up what the city’s like. One of the best things about living here is the variety of ways you can appreciate the great outdoors. Kayaking down the Chippewa River, fishing on Lake Wissota, and bird watching along the Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail are just a few things you can do to safely pass the time.
31. Mayville
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 12.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.5
Mayville is the second smallest city in our rankings in terms of population, and it’s everything you’d expect in a small town. The downtown area harkens back to simpler times, but there are still many of the modern amenities you’d expect in a larger city. To keep residents involved in the fight against crime, the local police department sponsors a Citizens Police Academy to foster communication and safety education.
30. Cottage Grove
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 12.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.5
The village of Cottage Grove sits right next door to the smaller town that bears the same name. This community prides itself on being a great place to live, work, play, and do business, and the relative lack of crime is a big contributor. Overall, there were three violent crimes reported in 2014 (none of which were robberies) and five burglaries total.
Exciting new changes are happening at Cottage Grove:
The community has a high regard for lawfulness, and will report crimes to the police frequently and rapidly so that the police can investigate appropriately. The police department is very strong in responding to any crimes reported, no matter how minor, and places a strong emphasis on crime prevention, and enlisting the help of the community in partnering together to reduce crime. Also, the community members have a high rate of education, relatively high household income, a low population density with minimal urbanization, all of which have been shown to lead to lower crime rates.
Dan Layber, Cottage Grove Village Police Chief
29. Menomonee Falls
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime 1,000: 12.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.5
With close to 36,000 residents, Menomonee Falls is the most heavily populated city in our rankings. Fortunately, the village police department is able to keep both violent and property crime well in hand. The bike patrol division keeps an eye on things around the city’s business districts, shopping centers and parks, while officers cruise residential neighborhoods by car.
28. Holmen
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 10.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.4
Holmen, one of Wisconsin’s fastest growing cities, is a more laid-back alternative to the faster pace in nearby La Crosse. Its proximity to Lake Onalaska makes it attractive to tourists, and full-time residents like it because of the superior schools and affordably priced housing. Whether you’re out and about or relaxing at home, you shouldn’t have much trouble feeling safe here.
27. Ripon
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 11.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.4
Voted one of Wisconsin’s happiest cities, Ripon is also known for being the birthplace of the Republican Party. Politics aside, the city has developed an excellent reputation for safety over the years, and that’s one reason why so many families are drawn to the area. The Ripon Police Department features highly trained officers who are dedicated to protecting the welfare of the city’s residents.
We have a had a few instances in the past in which the community has rallied together to make sure our residents are cared for or to help out an individual or family when barriers arise. That community spirit from Ripon residents travels through generations and it is something we are extremely proud of. Ripon is a community that was founded from the ideas of acceptance, progressive thinking, and genuine caring. We are happy to say those standards are still on display everyday in Ripon.
Jason Mansmith, Executive Director, Ripon Chamber of Commerce
Did you know:
The fingerprint/DNA kit is a tool provided to parents to assist local authorities with vital information to assist in locating a missing child.
Jolene Meyer, Ripon Area School District
26. Altoona
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 11.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.4
Altoona is another city that’s rapidly moving up the ranks in terms of population. The increase in people moving into the area hasn’t had a negative impact on the city’s crime rate. Although five violent crimes were reported in 2014, none of them were robberies. On the property crime side, there was a meager 11 burglaries altogether.
Did you know:
We also made an investment with our youth to help create positive relationships through our 1st ever bike safety recognition and award program. This will help develop relationships with our youth from not only our patrol staff but our command staff too! We sought out donations from our community businesses and asked them to help sponsor this program. We will be raffling off some bikes during our annual Welcome Back to School Ice Cream Social. Kids will be recognized for safe biking practices and we will be having a bike rodeo as well.
Altoona is a safe place to live. One of the key issues is that we here in the entire Chippewa Valley are affected by crimes. The robberies, burglaries, thefts, drug activity, etc. all have had an impact on our agencies. We neighbor the City of Eau Claire and the Eau Claire Sheriff's Department. One of the key issues since I have become the Police and Fire Chief (October 2013) is to improve our relations among our agencies. This is and continues to be a huge step in our agencies working and collaborating together on any crimes that affect us. We are all impacted, one way or another, by the same people that choose to participate in these illegal activities. We deal with 2% of the population about 90% of the time.
Another reason for our reduction in crime rates is that we have an active agency and it starts from the top down.
We have been blessed with Mike's support in getting a Chain of Command in place. Personnel now know what is expected from them and when we have crime happening we are proactive in getting an arrest, preventing it from happening again, educating and sharing the information with our community and simply being transparent. We have a young force here in Altoona and they are go-getters! I do not want to stop the amount of dedication and enthusiasm they have. So to keep them going, again with the assistance of our City Administrator and his support we are allowed to have the best equipment available, squads available and technology so we all can do our best to get home to our loved ones.
Jesse James, Police and Fire Chief, Altoona
25. Grafton
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 11.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.3
If you want to live in a smaller city while enjoying lakefront views and convenient access to Milwaukee, Grafton is a hands-down winner. Nearly 12,000 people have put down roots here and crime is impressively low, especially where robbery and burglary are concerned. Grafton’s police department is active in the community through a number of programs, all of which are geared towards enhancing safety.
24. Waupun
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 10.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.3
Art lovers flock to Waupun, which has the most outdoor public sculptures per capita of any U.S. city. But to the 11,000 or so people who live here, the “City of Sculpture” is a work of art itself. The city’s idyllic surroundings, thriving economy, and pleasant neighborhoods are just a few of the highlights. The scarcity of crime is another major selling point that brings in new residents on a regular basis.
23. Sheboygan Falls
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.5
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 11.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.3
Part of Sheboygan Falls’ mission is to encourage the city’s future growth while preserving its historic past. This means the local government dedicates time to attracting newcomers as well as improving the city for existing residents. The Sheboygan Falls Police Department does its part to enhance the quality of life here by ensuring that crime is kept to a minimum.
22. DeForest
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 10.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.7
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.2
Just minutes away from Madison, DeForest is a standout city in its own right, and the low crime rate is part of that. Out of 13 violent crimes reported in 2014, there wasn’t a single robbery and the number of burglaries totaled seven. “Together Everyone Accomplishes More” is the motto of the police department, and that spirit is embodied in programs like Coffee with a Cop and the Citizen Police Academy.
21. Town of Menasha
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 9.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.2
A population of around 19,000 makes Menasha one of Wisconsin’s largest towns, and it’s the total package in terms of a solid economy, affordable neighborhoods, and safe streets. Access to Lake Winnebago and an abundance of outdoor space earn it the seal of approval from nature buffs.
20. Bloomfield
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 11.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.1
The Bloomfield Police Department offers 24/7 protection to the nearly 6,300 people who live here, and they’re doing their job well if the village’s crime data is any indication. In 2014, there were no robberies reported and the number of burglaries came to just two. Annual events like Kids Day Out, which is sponsored by the police department, keep officers visible in the community.
19. Sturtevant
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 9.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 3.0
Sturtevant is close enough to Kenosha to make it convenient to the bigger city but still far enough away that residents aren’t plagued by high crime rates. There was one robbery in 2014, which represented all the violent crime that occurred. The total number of property crimes came to 68, with 13 of those being burglaries.
18. Muskego
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 8.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.8
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.9
Muskego is a lively community of close to 25,000 residents who enjoy some of the lowest crime rates in the state. The local police department takes a hands-on approach to fighting crime, sponsoring safety awareness programs for both children and adults. Residents who want to see just what officers do on a daily basis are encouraged to schedule a free tour of the police department’s facilities.
17. Richland Center
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 10.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.9
The city of Richland Center lies about halfway between La Crosse and Madison, and although it’s small, it’s got a big heart. As the birthplace of Frank Lloyd Wright, the city is known as one of the country’s most architecturally impressive small towns, attracting visitors from far and wide. Full-time residents appreciate its beauty and its status as a safe haven.
16. Fox Valley Metro
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 8.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.9
The Fox Valley Metro Police Department serves the village of Little Chute, located in central Wisconsin along the Fox River. The force protects nearly 21,000 residents through a community-oriented policing approach. While one of the larger cities in our rankings, Fox Valley Metro has a remarkably low violent crime rate, with only 25 incidents reported in 2014.
15. Elm Grove
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime 1,000: 9.2
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.7
Named America’s Best Suburb by Business Insider in 2014, Elm Grove is just a stone’s throw from Milwaukee. This upscale village is popular among families who are attracted to the beautiful homes and highly-rated schools. As one of the Milwaukee metro area’s wealthier suburbs, it does cost a little more to live here, but that’s balanced by a higher median household income.
14. Hartland
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.8
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 8.7
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.9
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.6
The atmosphere in Hartland is decidedly friendly, and locals certainly take pride in their hometown. The city’s low crime rate is just one thing residents are eager to boast about. Hartland’s police department takes an active role in promoting safety through programs like Safe Schools and Your Choice to Live, an initiative designed to educate youth about the risks of drug and alcohol abuse.
13. Waunakee
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 7.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.4
Although Waunakee sits just outside Madison, it’s truly a world apart. Voted one of CNN Money’s 100 Best Places to Live in 2009, this family-friendly village has everything you’d expect in a larger city without the drawbacks of things like heavy traffic or high crime. As proof, the Waunakee Police Department dealt with 20 burglary reports in 2014 and zero robberies.
12. Port Washington
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.1
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 8.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.3
Port Washington styles itself as an historic harbor village with a touch of New England charm punctuated by Midwestern friendliness. Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, the city is hive of activity; the maritime district is an especially desirable destination for visitors. The city offers a safe environment to both newcomers and lifelong residents all year-round.
11. Cedarburg
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 9.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.1
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.3
The arts are heavily celebrated in Cedarburg, with numerous festivals and cultural events held here throughout the year. The Cedarburg Police Department’s mission is to ensure that residents are safe, whether they’re attending one of these events, traveling to school or work, or taking a stroll around the block.
Students, staff (the school district), parents, families, community members and businesses share the belief that together we create synergy for a healthy, safe and thriving community.
Todd Bugnacki, Superintendent, Cedarburg School District
10. Hobart-Lawrence
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.2
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 6.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.2
The Hobart-Lawrence Police Department represents a joint effort by law enforcement to control crime in the village of Hobart and the town of Lawrence. Department members work together to increase citizen awareness about crime and promote safety. The result is that for 2014, the department reported fewer than 100 violent and property crimes combined, with no robberies and 20 burglaries.
What makes Lawrence safer?
How does that happen? Most community members are heavily involved in their local churches and local schools which I think helps promote this closeness and caring.
Randy Trem, Town Supervisor, Town of Lawrence
9. Portage
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.2
- Property crime 1,000: 6.0
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.6
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.1
Portage was selected as one of America’s 50 Best Communities in 2015 and it’s not difficult to see why. Small-town traditions are alive and well here and the city manages to evoke an old-fashioned feel while moving towards the future at full steam. Crime rates have been historically low, and that trend seems set to continue thanks to the efforts of the Portage Police Department.
8. Oregon
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.9
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 6.9
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.0
The Oregon Police Department seeks to educate residents on everything from how to identity theft scams to what kind of preventative measures work best against would-be burglars. Those initiatives, along with routine patrols, appear to be working, with the city reporting zero robberies and just three burglaries for 2014.
7. Mequon
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.3
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 6.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 2.0
The city of Mequon is all about preserving quality of life, and residents enjoy a profusion of safe, open spaces along with cool breezes off Lake Michigan. Excellent schools, quality healthcare, and a business-friendly atmosphere are just a few of the reasons why it’s one of Milwaukee’s most sought after suburbs.
6. Kronenwetter
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 5.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.9
Although it has a relatively small population, Kronenwetter is the largest village by land area in Wisconsin and the US. Crime is practically unheard of here, with just three violent crimes and 43 property crimes reported in 2014. Though it’s only a little more than a decade old, Kronenwetter’s police department clearly takes the job of keeping citizens safe seriously.
Did you know:
The police department is bringing on another full-time police officer this year, as well as some new part-time officers, keeping up with our ever growing community. On the Fire side, the Fire Department is working with our Village Treasurer and Village Board to look at replacement of some firefighting equipment while keeping the tax rate under control.
We are friendly community with Police Officers that are known to the residents. People don’t have a problem interacting with our well trained officers, and since the officers know the community they can follow up on small things that look out of place keeping things well maintained.
On the Fire Department side, we have a dedicated group of volunteers that also live in the community that are ready to be a first responder, as well as a firefighter when the need arises.
Being local residents make them willing to help out, and provide good information to residents on simple things to live their lives safer.
Richard Downey, SHRM-CP, Village Administrator of Kronenwetter
5. Grand Rapids
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.4
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.1
- Property crime 1,000: 4.6
- Burglary per 1,000: 1.2
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.6
Grand Rapids has been recognized as one of the best Wisconsin cities for raising a family, and the atmosphere of safety that permeates the city is a contributing factor. A strong spirit of community is evident in the various volunteer and recreational programs offered here, and it also plays a part in how the Grand Rapids Police Department approaches their duties.
4. Freedom
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 3.8
- Burglary per 1,000: 2.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.5
Freedom’s population is small but growing steadily, and an influx of new residents hasn’t derailed the city’s track record for safety. One of only three cities in our rankings to report zero violent crimes for 2014, it’s most deserving of a spot in the top five. The FBI’s crime data also shows that it fared well for property crime, with 14 burglaries reported.
3. Jackson
- Violent crime per 1,000: 1.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 3.3
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.4
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.2
When it comes to leading the charge against crime, the Jackson Police Department is worthy of praise. The department was the first in Washington County to institute a K9 police unit, the first to equip officers with mobile computers, and the only Washington County agency to earn accreditation. The city’s extremely low crime rate is a mark of local law enforcement’s innovative drive.
2. Mukwonago Town
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.7
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 3.1
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.5
- CreditDonkey safety score: 1.1
Mukwonago Town mostly surrounds the village of Mukwonago, which is roughly the same size in terms of population. Life here is largely peaceful and crime is not a regular occurrence. Burglaries are rare, and residents are encouraged to keep an eye on one another and their surroundings through the town’s Neighborhood Watch program.
1. Oconomowoc Town
- Violent crime per 1,000: 0.0
- Robbery per 1,000: 0.0
- Property crime 1,000: 2.5
- Burglary per 1,000: 0.3
- CreditDonkey safety score: 0.7
With zero rapes, robberies, murders or aggravated assaults and only 22 property crimes reported in 2014, the town of Oconomowoc firmly establishes itself as the safest city in Wisconsin. The local police department uses programs like Crime Stoppers and Shop with the Cops to maintain a positive connection with the community so crime can be stamped out before it starts.
Conclusion
Just because a particular city didn’t make it onto our list doesn’t mean it’s not safe. Some cities don’t report their crime data to the FBI, which means they were not factored into our rankings.
If your city did make the list, congratulations! Knowing that you’re less likely to be the victim of a burglary or robbery can help you sleep easier at night. Still worried about security? Read up on what could make you a target for burglars, and take the necessary steps to safeguard your home.
The Top 50 Safest Cities in Wisconsin
| Rank | City | Population | Total # of Violent Crimes1 | Total # of Property Crimes2 | Violent Crime Per 1,000 | Robbery Per 1,000 | Property Crime Per 1,000 | Burglary Per 1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oconomowoc Town | 8,653 | 0 | 22 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 2.5 | 0.3 |
| 2 | Mukwonago Town | 8,090 | 6 | 25 | 0.7 | 0.0 | 3.1 | 0.5 |
| 3 | Jackson | 6,739 | 7 | 22 | 1.0 | 0.0 | 3.3 | 0.4 |
| 4 | Freedom | 5,997 | 0 | 23 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 3.8 | 2.3 |
| 5 | Grand Rapids | 7,587 | 3 | 35 | 0.4 | 0.1 | 4.6 | 1.2 |
| 6 | Kronenwetter | 7,416 | 3 | 43 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 5.8 | 1.2 |
| 7 | Mequon | 23,389 | 8 | 148 | 0.3 | 0.0 | 6.3 | 1.4 |
| 8 | Oregon | 9,788 | 9 | 68 | 0.9 | 0.0 | 6.9 | 0.3 |
| 9 | Portage | 10,147 | 17 | 61 | 1.7 | 0.2 | 6.0 | 0.6 |
| 10 | Hobart-Lawrence | 12,408 | 3 | 85 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 6.9 | 1.6 |
| 11 | Cedarburg | 11,493 | 0 | 104 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 9.0 | 0.1 |
| 12 | Port Washington | 11,366 | 12 | 91 | 1.1 | 0.0 | 8.0 | 0.2 |
| 13 | Waunakee | 13,017 | 12 | 92 | 0.9 | 0.0 | 7.1 | 1.5 |
| 14 | Hartland | 9,210 | 7 | 80 | 0.8 | 0.0 | 8.7 | 0.9 |
| 15 | Elm Grove | 5,953 | 1 | 55 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 9.2 | 1.3 |
| 16 | Fox Valley Metro | 20,650 | 25 | 180 | 1.2 | 0.1 | 8.7 | 1.5 |
| 17 | Richland Center | 5,055 | 1 | 51 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 10.1 | 1.4 |
| 18 | Muskego | 24,654 | 7 | 213 | 0.3 | 0.0 | 8.6 | 2.8 |
| 19 | Sturtevant | 6,995 | 1 | 68 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 9.7 | 1.9 |
| 20 | Bloomfield | 6,281 | 6 | 71 | 1.0 | 0.0 | 11.3 | 0.3 |
| 21 | Town of Menasha | 19,019 | 19 | 180 | 1.0 | 0.1 | 9.5 | 2.1 |
| 22 | Deforest | 9,482 | 13 | 103 | 1.4 | 0.0 | 10.9 | 0.7 |
| 23 | Sheboygan Falls | 7,769 | 4 | 90 | 0.5 | 0.1 | 11.6 | 0.8 |
| 24 | Waupun | 11,326 | 15 | 115 | 1.3 | 0.0 | 10.2 | 1.7 |
| 25 | Grafton | 11,536 | 10 | 136 | 0.9 | 0.0 | 11.8 | 0.6 |
| 26 | Altoona | 7,141 | 5 | 80 | 0.7 | 0.0 | 11.2 | 1.5 |
| 27 | Ripon | 7,768 | 10 | 86 | 1.3 | 0.1 | 11.1 | 1.3 |
| 28 | Holmen | 9,506 | 11 | 96 | 1.2 | 0.0 | 10.1 | 2.5 |
| 29 | Menomonee Falls | 35,997 | 8 | 443 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 12.3 | 1.3 |
| 30 | Cottage Grove | 6,546 | 3 | 84 | 0.5 | 0.0 | 12.8 | 0.8 |
| 31 | Mayville | 5,034 | 2 | 62 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 12.3 | 1.4 |
| 32 | Chippewa Falls | 13,733 | 28 | 143 | 2.0 | 0.0 | 10.4 | 1.7 |
| 33 | Fox Point | 6,697 | 8 | 80 | 1.2 | 0.4 | 11.9 | 1.2 |
| 34 | Kaukauna | 15,786 | 22 | 191 | 1.4 | 0.0 | 12.1 | 1.5 |
| 35 | Twin Lakes | 6,110 | 3 | 73 | 0.5 | 0.2 | 11.9 | 2.5 |
| 36 | Caledonia | 24,746 | 41 | 277 | 1.7 | 0.2 | 11.2 | 2.2 |
| 37 | Milton | 5,568 | 10 | 61 | 1.8 | 0.4 | 11.0 | 2.2 |
| 38 | Whitefish Bay | 14,129 | 4 | 178 | 0.3 | 0.1 | 12.6 | 2.3 |
| 39 | North Fond du Lac | 5,051 | 7 | 65 | 1.4 | 0.0 | 12.9 | 1.6 |
| 40 | Plover | 12,315 | 10 | 165 | 0.8 | 0.1 | 13.4 | 1.6 |
| 41 | Verona | 12,078 | 7 | 175 | 0.6 | 0.1 | 14.5 | 0.8 |
| 42 | Elkhorn | 9,936 | 7 | 136 | 0.7 | 0.1 | 13.7 | 1.6 |
| 43 | Sturgeon Bay | 9,084 | 3 | 129 | 0.3 | 0.0 | 14.2 | 2.3 |
| 44 | Hales Corners | 7,771 | 3 | 125 | 0.4 | 0.1 | 16.1 | 1.0 |
| 45 | Fort Atkinson | 12,506 | 13 | 182 | 1.0 | 0.2 | 14.6 | 1.9 |
| 46 | Delavan Town | 5,331 | 0 | 80 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 15.0 | 2.8 |
| 47 | West Salem | 5,023 | 6 | 73 | 1.2 | 0.2 | 14.5 | 2.0 |
| 48 | Plymouth | 8,380 | 5 | 135 | 0.6 | 0.1 | 16.1 | 1.2 |
| 49 | Reedsburg | 9,599 | 8 | 163 | 0.8 | 0.0 | 17.0 | 0.2 |
| 50 | Middleton | 18,647 | 12 | 285 | 0.6 | 0.4 | 15.3 | 1.9 |
2Property crime includes burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
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| Safest Cities in Wisconsin 2016 © CreditDonkey |
Rebecca Lake is a journalist at CreditDonkey, a home security comparison and reviews website. Write to Rebecca Lake at rebecca@creditdonkey.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for our latest posts.
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