Purcellville ranked second safest city in Virginia

The Purcellville Police Department announced that the Town of Purcellville was ranked the Second “Safest City” in Virginia for 2025 by SafeWise. Using the latest FBI National Incident-Based Reporting System data available, Purcellville received the number two ranking as the safest city in Virginia. 

Despite Purcellville’s low crime rate of 0.3 per 1,000 residents for violent crime , and 6.0 for property crime, which decreased from .04 VC and 6.2 PC from the previous year, Purcellville moved down one spot, to take second place this year.

The NIBRS program categorizes crime into two broad classifications: violent crimes and non-violent crimes. The FBI compiles violent crimes from four offenses: murder and non-negligent manslaughter, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. Violent crimes under the NIBRS program are offenses that involve force or threat of force.

Property crime included the offenses of burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. The object of theft-type offense is the taking of money or property, but there is no force or threat against the victims. The total number of crimes reported by each city was computed by adding the violent crimes and property crimes.  The crime rate was determined by the number of crimes per 1,000 population.

“The “safest” cities rankings are intended to highlight cities with low crime rates and ignite conversation and action around making all communities safer. With Purcellville ranking in the top two spots last year and this year, it exemplifies the dedication of our officers working together with community members to continue to build trust and strengthen relationships to help make safety a priority for us all,” stated Interim Chief Sara Lombraña.

The full report can be viewed at https://www.safewise.com/blog/safest-cities-virginia/.