Study shows Texas is third safest state in America – NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth

In a year marked by rising gun violence and an alarming number of climate disasters, Texas ranks as the third safest state in the U.S., according to a new report from personal finance website WalletHub.

The study, which seeks to highlight the safest states in America, underscores the significant challenges Texas faces in ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents. Overall, the Lone Star State ranked 48th out of 50 states.

What contributed to Texas’ low ranking?

Analysts examined 52 key metrics to assess overall security in the United States. These factors ranged from violent crime rates and traffic fatalities to financial losses due to climate disasters. Here’s how Texas performed in key areas:

• Murders and non-negligent homicides per capita: Texas ranks 33 in this category, indicating higher than average levels of violent crime compared to other states.
• Attacks per capita: Come in around 32The state also had to contend with a high number of attacks.
• Losses from climate disasters: Texas ranks 41This highlights its vulnerability to costly climate-related events such as hurricanes and floods. In 2024 alone, the country has already experienced 20 climate disasters, each causing over $1 billion in damage, with Texas hit particularly hard.
• Fatal accidents at work: Texas placed 30 in work-related deaths, reflecting the state’s challenges in maintaining workplace safety.
• Traffic fatalities: Traffic safety remains a problem in Texas’ rankings 36 for traffic fatalities, highlighting the need for better traffic regulation and safety enforcement.
• Law enforcement personnel per capita: Texas ranks on the better side 18 for the presence of law enforcement, suggesting a strong police force.
• Uninsured population: Texas ranked last in a critical health security metric (50) for the highest proportion of uninsured residents, which can significantly impact access to necessary medical services.

“The safest states in America protect their residents from harm in a variety of ways, from low crime rates and maintaining safe streets to strong economies and job markets that prevent people from getting into dangerous financial situations,” said WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo .

“They also have a high level of occupational safety and disaster preparedness. “In addition, states become safer through the efforts of individual residents, such as forming a neighborhood watch or working in firefighting and emergency medical services at high rates.”

Security concerns in context

The report’s findings come at a time when gun violence remains a major problem across the country. Nearly 14,000 gun-related deaths have been reported this year. Combined with Texas’ high uninsured rate and vulnerability to natural disasters, the state faces complex challenges in providing a safe environment for its residents.

WalletHub’s report not only highlights areas for improvement, but also serves as a call to action for policymakers, local leaders and communities to prioritize public safety measures. Texas’ rankings in several categories demonstrate the need for stronger infrastructure, better access to health care and improved public safety initiatives.

As Texas struggles with its current safety ratings, understanding key areas of concern can guide efforts to create a safer and more resilient future for its citizens.

Of particular concern is the particularly high uninsured rate in Texas, which ranks last at 50th, leaving millions of residents without adequate health insurance coverage. Combined with high rates of traffic fatalities, climate-related financial losses and significant levels of violent crime, the Lone Star State faces an uphill battle in keeping its people safe.

The full report, methodology and additional expert commentary can be read on WalletHub’s website.