The 10 Safest Cities in West Virginia to Raise a Family in 2026

According to the latest 2025 State of Safety report, several West Virginia towns achieved a "clean sheet" last year, reporting zero burglaries or violent incidents. These are the 10 safest communities to raise a family in 2026.

1. Grafton (Taylor County)

• The Data: Ranked as the #1 Safest City in West Virginia for the second consecutive year.
• Why It Wins: Grafton is a statistical anomaly in the best way possible. In the most recent reporting period, the city reported zero murders, rapes, or robberies. For parents, this historic railroad town offers more than just safety; it provides a tight-knit community where neighbors truly look out for one another.

2. Bridgeport (Harrison County)

• The Data: Consistently holds an A+ Overall Grade on Niche for safety and public schools.
• Why It Wins: Bridgeport is the "Gold Standard" for West Virginia families. While Grafton wins on raw crime stats, Bridgeport wins on amenities. It combines exceptionally low violent crime rates with one of the State best school systems and a thriving local economy, making it a magnet for professionals along the I-79 corridor.

3. Williamstown (Wood County)

• The Data: Reported the lowest property crime rate in the entire state (just 34 per 100,000 people).
• Why It Wins: Situated across the river from Marietta, Ohio, Williamstown is a quiet sanctuary. The police presence here is community-focused, and the local schools are top-tier. It is the kind of town where bicycles are left on front lawns without fear.

4. Winfield (Putnam County)

• The Data: A violent crime rate that is nearly non-existent compared to the national average.
• Why It Wins: Winfield is the crown jewel of Putnam County. As a riverside community, it offers a high quality of life with a "Mayberry" feel. The Winfield school district is a massive draw for families moving out of the Charleston metro area who want safety without sacrificing commute times.

5. Shepherdstown (Jefferson County)

• The Data: An "A" rating for Crime & Safety, with property crime dropping year-over-year.
• Why It Wins: Known as the oldest town in the state, Shepherdstown feels like a college town without the chaos. It attracts professors, artists, and D.C. commuters. The presence of Shepherd University adds a layer of campus security that benefits the entire borough.

6. Buckhannon (Upshur County)

• The Data: Reported zero rapes, burglaries, or motor vehicle thefts in the latest 2025 dataset.
• Why It Wins: Buckhannon is often voted one of the "Coolest Small Towns in America," but it is also one of the safest. It serves as a quiet, secure hub for the region, anchored by West Virginia Wesleyan College.

7. Weirton (Hancock/Brooke Counties)

• The Data: Consistently ranks as the safest "larger" city in the state (population 18,000+).
• Why It Wins: Usually, more people mean more crime. Weirton defies this rule. It maintains crime rates significantly lower than cities of similar size. For families who want safety but don't want to live in a tiny rural town, Weirton offers the perfect middle ground.

8. Lewisburg (Greenbrier County)

• The Data: Violent crime rates are 70% lower than the West Virginia average.
• Why It Wins: Lewisburg is famous for its arts scene and the State Fair, but locals know it as a safe fortress for families. The local police force is highly engaged, and the community is incredibly active in keeping the streets safe and walkable.

9. Ranson (Jefferson County)

• The Data: A newcomer to the "Top 5" lists in 2025 due to a sharp decline in violent crime.
• Why It Wins: Ranson is growing fast as part of the Eastern Panhandle boom. Despite the growth, it has managed to keep crime low through thoughtful city planning and community policing. It is becoming a top choice for families priced out of Northern Virginia.

10. Keyser (Mineral County)

• The Data: Reported fewer than 105 total property crimes for the entire year.
• Why It Wins: Nestled in the Potomac Highlands, Keyser is quiet, affordable, and secure. It is a "front porch" community where safety comes from visibility—everyone knows everyone, which is the best deterrent to crime.

⚠️ The "Danger Zones": Areas with Elevated Risks

While the towns above are secure, recent 2025/2026 data highlights areas where families should exercise caution:

• Beckley: Currently holds the highest property crime rate in the state (significantly higher than the national average).
• Bluefield: While property crime is low, it statistically has the highest violent crime rate per capita.
• Wheeling: While improving, specific neighborhoods still struggle with theft and drug-related offenses.