Sioux Center, Iowa (Sioux County Radio) — Sioux Center is once again ranked the safest city in Iowa, according to new rankings based on national crime data.
How the Rankings Work
Organizations like SafeWise analyze data to compare cities based on per capita violent and property crime rates. SafeWise is a research and review site focused on home security, safety products, and community safety trends. It publishes data-driven reports to help people better understand safety risks in their communities.
By the Numbers
In the latest SafeWise report:
Sioux Center ranks #1 in Iowa
Orange City ranks #2
Sioux Center continues to post very low crime rates:
Violent crime rate: 0.5
Property crime rate: 0.8
Population: 8,643
Orange City also ranked highly:
Violent crime rate: 0.5
Property crime rate: 1.9
Population: 6,438
A Reflection of the Community
Sioux Center Mayor Dale Vander Berg says the recognition lines up with what residents experience day to day.
He says people feel safe because keeping the community safe takes effort from both residents and local leaders.
Vander Berg says that shared effort is a big reason Sioux Center continues to rank so highly.
He points to a culture where neighbors look out for each other and take pride in their community.
Law Enforcement Perspective
From the police side, Sgt. Jack Brundell says the community plays the biggest role in keeping crime low.
He says officers most often respond to minor issues like driving complaints, civil matters, and small thefts rather than serious violent crime.
A Regional Trend
Sioux County continues to stand out statewide for safety, with multiple communities ranking near the top. Along with Sioux Center and Orange City, the region consistently performs well in national comparisons based on crime rates and overall quality of life. The city of Algona also made Safewise’s top-10 list.
KIWA Staff Photo
