A new nationwide study by Omega Law has identified New Mexico as the state with the highest rate of residential crime in America. According to the analysis of FBI crime data, New Mexico recorded an alarming 3,465.75 residential crimes per 100,000 residents, making homes in the state the most vulnerable in the nation.
By comparison, Hawaii was found to be the safest state for residents, with just 627.52 residential crimes per 100,000 people — nearly six times lower than New Mexico.
Regional Differences in Residential Crime
The study revealed significant disparities between states when it comes to home safety.
- New Mexico ranks first with 3,465.75 residential crimes per 100,000 residents.
- Kansas takes second place with 2,865.15 residential crimes per 100,000 residents.
- Tennessee ranks third at 2,733.73 residential crimes per 100,000 people.
- South Carolina follows with 2,693.54 residential crimes per 100,000 residents.
- Louisiana rounds out the top five at 2,688.16 residential crimes per 100,000 residents.
“These numbers tell an important story about regional safety patterns across America,” said a spokesperson from Omega Law. “Factors such as economic conditions, population density, and local law enforcement resources all play a role in shaping crime levels. What stands out most in our study is the nearly six-fold difference between the most and least dangerous states.”
Top Five States for Residential Crime
| Rank | State | Residential Crimes per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Mexico | 3,465.75 |
| 2 | Kansas | 2,865.15 |
| 3 | Tennessee | 2,733.73 |
| 4 | South Carolina | 2,693.54 |
| 5 | Louisiana | 2,688.16 |
Safest States for Homes
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Hawaii emerged as the safest state for residences. The analysis found that residential crime in Hawaii occurs at a rate nearly six times lower than in New Mexico.
- Hawaii ranked safest with 627.52 residential crimes per 100,000 residents.
- New Jersey followed with 1,037.23.
- Vermont placed third lowest with 1,110.49.
- New Hampshire came fourth with 1,229.13.
- Maine completed the top five safest at 1,245.23 residential crimes per 100,000 people.
The concentration of Northeastern states in the safest rankings highlights regional differences. “It is clear that certain areas of the country — particularly the Northeast — consistently report lower residential crime rates,” the OmegaLaw.com spokesperson noted.
Top Five Safest States for Residential Crime
| Rank | State | Residential Crimes per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|
| 50 | Hawaii | 627.52 |
| 49 | New Jersey | 1,037.23 |
| 48 | Vermont | 1,110.49 |
| 47 | New Hampshire | 1,229.13 |
| 46 | Maine | 1,245.23 |
What the Findings Mean for Homeowners
The analysis highlights the importance of homeowners understanding their local crime risk. Even in states with comparatively low rates, crime remains a concern.
“We recommend that residents review local crime statistics and take reasonable precautions based on their findings,” the spokesperson said. “Basic measures such as installing home security systems, reinforcing locks, and building community watch programs remain essential, no matter where you live.”
The spokesperson added, “The stark difference between states like New Mexico and Hawaii shows that residential crime risk isn’t evenly distributed across America. Homeowners should be aware of the broader trends in their region to make informed safety decisions.”
About the Study
The analysis was conducted by Omega Law using official FBI crime statistics. The study examined crimes occurring in residences and homes across all 50 states, calculating rates per 100,000 residents to ensure comparability.
