SafeHome.org Releases Halloween Safety Rankings
A new national study evaluates 152 U.S. cities based on crime rates and pedestrian safety metrics for Halloween.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Property Crime
Live Poll
Do you feel your local neighborhood has become safer for children to trick-or-treat in?
SafeHome.org has published its latest national ranking of 152 cities for trick-or-treating safety. The study evaluates each location using a combination of crime rates, pedestrian fatality data, registered sex offender figures, and law enforcement staffing levels.
Why it matters
Understanding these safety rankings helps residents gauge potential risks in their communities during Halloween festivities. The report highlights how varying public safety and crime data impact the overall security of neighborhoods for trick-or-treaters.
The study utilized a comprehensive set of metrics including violent and property crime rates, pedestrian fatalities, and law enforcement staffing levels. Results are currently based on these static annual indicators for 152 cities nationwide.
The players
SafeHome.org
This organization specializes in home security research and produces annual public safety reports for communities across the United States.
The details
Pembroke Pines, Florida, secured the top ranking for Halloween safety, followed by Yonkers, New York, in second place. Among California cities, Elk Grove placed 12th and Roseville placed 21st, while Oakland ranked 149th out of the 152 cities assessed.
Timeline
The 2026 study was released on October 21, 2026.
Elk Grove maintained its national ranking from the previous year in 2025.
Legal Context
This study follows the established pattern of assessing community safety by aggregating municipal crime and law enforcement data. It serves as an updated comparative tool within the broader context of tracking local property and violent crime trends across various jurisdictions.
Residents in high-ranking cities may find higher levels of confidence regarding neighborhood patrols and pedestrian safety measures. Conversely, individuals in lower-ranked areas might opt to utilize increased caution or take extra security steps while participating in evening holiday activities.
The takeaway
Parents are encouraged to review local safety data as part of their holiday planning to ensure a secure experience for trick-or-treaters. Utilizing official city safety reports can help families identify the most secure areas for activities in their own neighborhoods.
Further reading
For more information on local safety and regional data, visit the United States Property Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Sacramento Bee.
Live Poll
Do you feel your local neighborhood has become safer for children to trick-or-treat in?
