According to research from The Travel, two Putnam County, NY towns have been named some of the safest places in America for retirees. This information was compiled through an analysis of crime rates in various small towns across the United States, emphasizing safety as a critical factor for seniors when choosing a retirement destination.

The data sources include local crime statistics and insights from the 2024 Global Peace Index, which ranked the U.S. 132 out of 163 countries, highlighting the varying levels of safety across different regions.

Here are the Top 7 safest towns in America according to the study:

1. Clinton, Massachusetts (Crime rate: 0.84 per 1,000 residents)
2. Cold Spring, New York (Crime rate: 1.50 per 1,000 residents)
3. Wayland, Massachusetts (Crime rate: 1.90 per 1,000 residents)
4. Cape Elizabeth, Maine (Crime rate: 2.71 per 1,000 residents)
5. Wimberly, Texas (Crime rate: 4.84 per 1,000 residents)
6. Carmel, New York (Crime rate: 5.04 per 1,000 residents)
7. Marco Island, Florida (Crime rate: 6.06 per 1,000 residents)

Look at Carmel! 

Carmel, NY, is a cute little town tucked away in the gorgeous Hudson Valley, known for its chill vibes and friendly community. With a crime rate of just 5.04 per 1,000 residents, it's a great spot for retirees looking for peace of mind. You’ll find plenty of cultural happenings, artsy events, and charming boutiques that give it that cozy small-town feel. Plus, the stunning nature all around makes it perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.

It's also super convenient, being less than two hours from New York City. That means retirees can enjoy the city buzz whenever they want while still having their quiet retreat to come back to. With a lively community and lots of activities, Carmel is a solid choice for seniors wanting a peaceful but engaging place to settle down.

Now, I grew up in Brewster, NY, just a stone’s throw from Carmel. Sure, it’s historic, beautiful, and safe, but let’s be real—we weren’t fans of the Carmel crowd. You know how it goes—small-town rivalries have a way of messing with all that peace and charm!

Another Putnam County Town Makes the List

It's worth noting that Cold Spring, NY, which is not far from Carmel, also ranks as one of the safest towns in America. This nearby gem offers similar outdoor recreation options and a quaint atmosphere, further enriching the retirement experience in the region.

P.S. I used to live on Marco Island—it's beautiful, but let's be honest, the safety there is partly because everyone is one million years old.

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Gallery Credit: Lou Milano

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Gallery Credit: Lou Milano