Rapid City is among the top 100 safest cities in America according to a recent report released by WalletHub.
WalletHub compared more than 180 cities across 41 key indicators of safety. The data set ranges from traffic fatalities and assaults per capita to the unemployment rate. Rapid City ranked 81 this year. In 2023, Rapid City was #92.
“In Rapid City, we are focused on being a safe place to raise a family, grow a business, and enjoy life,” shared Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun. “As our community grows, we remain focused on responding to that growth by strengthening public safety and supporting law enforcement. It’s great to see our efforts paying off and we remain committed to enforcing the law and prioritizing the safety of our great community.”
Rapid City Police Chief Don Hedrick added, “The safety of our community is our paramount priority. Our officers and staff call this city home and are proud to go to work every day personally invested in the well-being of our community. We will continue to tirelessly strive to keep Rapid City as safe and vibrant as possible for all community members.”
The study accounts for hazard types beyond physical harm. For example, taking out an unaffordable second mortgage, forgoing health insurance or even falling victim to identity theft.
“When people think about safety in a city, their minds probably immediately go to things like the crime rate, auto fatality rate or risk of natural disasters. The safest cities in America protect residents from these threats of bodily harm and property damage, but on top of that, they also help secure people’s financial safety. Financial safety includes things like minimizing the risk of fraud and identity theft, keeping the population employed and insured, and combating homelessness,” said Chip Lupo, WalletHub Analyst.
Top 5 Safest Cities in the U.S. according to WalletHub were:
- South Burlington, VT
- Casper, WY
- Warwick, RI
- Burlington, VT
- Boise, ID
“As we work toward elevating the economy for all, we are proud of the improvements our community has seen,” said Elevate Rapid City President/CEO, Tom Johnson. For the first time this year, Rapid City’s average weekly wages surpassed $1,000. We have partners coming together to address key topics like affordable housing and childcare. A healthy economy is one of many ways we keep our people safe. I am confident that in 2025 we will see Rapid City continue to rise in its rank as a Safest City in America.”