Safe Places to Move in Florida: Why Charlotte County Tops the List
February 14th, 2026

Safe Places to Move in Florida: Why Charlotte County Stands Out
Florida has long been known for sunshine and sandy coastlines — but today, safety is one of the leading priorities for families, retirees, and remote workers choosing where to live.
The good news: crime in Florida has steadily declined over the last decade according to statewide reports. And among its safest communities, Charlotte County continues to perform better than the Florida average in key public safety measures.¹
If you’re searching for safe places to move in Florida, Charlotte County deserves serious attention.
Safety in Florida: The 2025 Outlook
Florida continues to attract hundreds of new residents each day – migration estimates recently ranged from about 900 to 1,200 new arrivals per day during the 2021-22 period.¹ As major metro areas become more crowded and expensive, many are now seeking quieter, safer coastal counties for relocation. ¹ (See U.S. Census Bureau / state migration estimates)
Safest communities tend to share a few strengths:
✔ Strong community engagement
✔ Proactive policing strategies
✔ Partnerships across schools, public agencies, and neighborhoods
📍 Based on the latest crime data available:
| Violent Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents) | Source |
|---|---|
| Florida State Average: 3.07 | FDLE 2023 |
| Charlotte County: 2.07 | FDLE 2023 |
➡️ That’s 32% lower than the statewide average — a meaningful difference for public safety and peace of mind.¹
Charlotte County, Florida: Sunshine Meets Security
Located between Sarasota and Fort Myers, Charlotte County is often called one of Florida’s hidden gems — known for its harbors, natural beauty, and calm sense of community.
📊 Here’s how Charlotte County compares Statewide:
| Crime Type (per 1,000 residents) | Charlotte County | Florida Avg. | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assault | Lower than statewide | — | FDLE 2023 |
| Robbery | Lower than statewide | — | FDLE 2023 |
| Rape | Slightly lower than statewide | — | FDLE 2023 |
| Murder | Lower than statewide | — | FDLE 2023 |
| Total Violent Crime | 2.07 | 3.07 | FDLE 2023 |
📌 Translation:
Safer streets. Calmer neighborhoods. More confidence for families.
Compared to regional averages in the Southeastern U.S., Florida — and Charlotte County in particular — remains one of the safest relocation options available.³
Why Safety Fuels Growth & Quality of Life
Low crime isn’t just about protection — it boosts the entire community:
- Property values tend to stay resilient
- Parents feel secure raising children here
- Employers find it easier to attract and retain talent
- New residents participate in local life faster and stay longer
Safety becomes a competitive advantage — socially and economically.
This is exactly what’s happening in Charlotte County.
Community Policing That Works
Charlotte County’s success isn’t accidental.
The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes:
👮 Community-based policing
👥 Youth + resident partnerships
🏘️ Neighborhood Watch support
🚔 Preventive patrol programs
Residents regularly note that officers know their communities — and that makes safety feel personal.
A Well-Rounded Lifestyle Beyond Safety
Charlotte County strengthens its appeal with:
🌴 Miles of waterfront parks + natural preserves
🎓 Strong school pathways into careers (CTE + local colleges)
🎭 A growing arts + culture scene
🚗 Shorter commutes and affordable coastal living
It’s a place where you don’t have to choose between lifestyle and security.
New Residents Agree
Recent movers say:
“We left a larger city to find peace of mind — and we found it.”
“People look out for each other here.”
“We feel safe raising our kids in Charlotte County.”
Community trust is part of daily life.
Tips for Choosing Safe Places to Live in Florida
🔹 Compare FDLE county-level crime statistics
🔹 Tour neighborhoods during the day and night
🔹 Look for active community participation
🔹 Pay attention to school + public investment trends
Home isn’t just a house — it’s the environment around it.
The Bottom Line
Charlotte County offers something rare in Florida:
✨ A safe, peaceful community
✨ With real opportunity and steady growth
✨ In a coastal location you’ll love to call home
For those seeking a safe place to move in Florida —
Charlotte County is one of the smartest moves you can make in 2025 and beyond.
📌 Want to Learn More About Relocating?
Explore resources tailored for new residents:
👉 Cleared4Takeoff.com
📚 Sources
- Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), 2023 Uniform Crime Report – County Violent Crime Data
https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/FSAC/County-Profiles/Charlotte - U.S. Census + U-Haul Growth Index Migration Trends (2024 Estimates)
https://www.census.gov/newsroom.html - FBI Crime Data Explorer — State Violent Crime Comparisons (2022 Latest)
https://cde.ucr.cjis.gov/