83: Is Europe actually safer than the U.S.?
Is Europe Safer Than the U.S.? A Real Look at Safety Abroad
If you’re thinking about moving overseas, you might have wondered: Is Europe safer than the U.S.? It’s a question I get often—and while it sounds simple, the reality is much more layered. In this post, we’ll break down the data and compare Europe and the U.S. across multiple areas: crime, healthcare, transportation, politics, and day-to-day life.
What Does “Safety” Really Mean When Comparing Europe and the U.S.?
Before answering “Is Europe safer than the U.S.?”, we need to define what safety includes. People often think of things like:
- Gun violence
- Mass shootings
- Street crime
- Natural disasters
- Healthcare access
- Political and social stability
- Feeling safe walking at night
Both regions may be “safe” globally, but how that safety is experienced daily can vary a lot.
Gun Violence and Crime: Is Europe Safer for Public Safety?
Gun violence is one of the clearest areas where Europe appears safer than the U.S. In 2023:
- The U.S. recorded over 48,000 gun deaths (13 per 100,000 people).
- In the UK, that number was just 0.2 per 100,000. Most of Europe falls within a similar range.
- The U.S. had over 600 mass shootings in 2023—more than any other developed nation.
When it comes to violent crime:
- U.S.: 4.7 incidents per 1,000 people
- France: 1.3
- Germany: 0.6
- Spain: 0.9
Europe may feel safer than America in terms of violent incidents. However, many European cities like Barcelona and Rome are known for petty crimes like pickpocketing, especially in tourist areas.
Is Healthcare in Europe Safer Than the U.S.?
When considering healthcare as part of safety, Europe comes out ahead:
- Over 40% of U.S. adults delay care due to cost.
- Medical debt is a leading cause of bankruptcy in the U.S.
- In contrast, most Europeans have access to universal or highly subsidized healthcare.
For example:
- In Germany, public health insurance (covering dental, mental health, and emergencies) costs €300–€400/month.
- In the UK, the NHS covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and ambulance rides with no out-of-pocket costs.
So, in terms of healthcare safety, Europe is safer than the U.S. for many people.
Transportation and Urban Safety:
Public infrastructure also plays into how safe life in Europe vs. the U.S. feels:
- U.S. traffic deaths: 12.7 per 100,000 people
- EU average: 4.7 per 100,000
- Sweden & Norway: around 2.0
European cities are built for walkability and public transit, while most U.S. cities prioritize cars. Pedestrian deaths in the U.S. are rising—over 7,500 in 2022.
If you’re looking for a city where biking, walking, or taking the train feels normal and safe, Europe may be safer than America for everyday mobility.
Political and Social Stability: Is Europe a Safer Region to Live In?
Political climate affects how safe people feel. According to the 2023 Global Peace Index:
- 8 of the top 10 most peaceful countries are in Europe (Iceland, Ireland, Portugal, Austria, etc.).
- The U.S. ranked 131 out of 163—lower than places like Haiti and Rwanda.
While Europe isn’t immune to protests or political tension, the U.S. sees more polarization and social unrest, which may contribute to a less stable feeling overall.
Emotional and Cultural Safety: Where Do People Feel Safer?
Is Europe safer than the U.S. emotionally? It depends. A 2023 Gallup poll showed:
- 44% of Americans feel safe walking alone at night
- 79% in Norway, 77% in Spain, 74% in Germany said the same
Cultural safety can also depend on:
- Language barriers
- Belonging to a marginalized group
- Age, gender, or financial situation
Some Americans feel more at ease in Europe due to slower lifestyles and trust in institutions. Others may find the adjustment challenging.
Final Thoughts: Is Europe Safer Than the U.S.?
Statistically speaking, yes—Europe is generally safer than the U.S. when it comes to gun violence, public health, transportation safety, and political stability. But that doesn’t mean Europe is perfect—or the right choice for everyone.
But your sense of safety is personal. It really depends on your priorities, lifestyle, and comfort zone.
If safety is one of your top concerns and you’re wondering where in Europe might be a good fit, take my free quiz at jordangiberson.com/quiz. It’s designed to help you find a city that fits your values—safety included.
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