When it comes to buying a home, many people consider a variety of factors such as location, schools, and property values. However, one increasingly important factor is the risk of natural disasters. For those looking to avoid the devastation hurricanes can cause, knowing the safest states from hurricanes is crucial. In this article, we will explore the states that pose the lowest risk for hurricanes, based on data from Realtor.com, and what makes them ideal for those seeking safer ground.
Understanding Hurricane Risk
Hurricanes are among the most powerful and destructive natural disasters in the world. They bring torrential rain, strong winds, and flooding, which can cause significant damage to homes and infrastructure. While states along the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico are most vulnerable, there are several states across the U.S. that offer much lower hurricane risk, giving homeowners peace of mind.
Top 10 Safest States From Hurricanes
According to Realtor.com, these are the top 10 states with the lowest risk of hurricane damage based on the share of homes located in low-risk areas:
Nevada
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- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 90.6%
- Total property values at the lowest risk: $440.4 billion
As a landlocked state with no direct access to oceans, Nevada enjoys one of the lowest hurricane risks in the country. The state’s desert climate and geographic isolation from coastal areas protect it from the destructive forces of hurricanes.
Nebraska
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- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 90.2%
- Total property values at the lowest risk: $159 billion
Located in the Midwest, Nebraska benefits from its inland position, far away from the threat of hurricanes. With over 90% of its homes in low-risk areas, it’s an attractive state for those seeking safety from natural disasters.
Colorado
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- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 89.5%
- Total property values at the lowest risk: $1,062.6 billion
Known for its mountainous landscape, Colorado is another state with a very low risk of hurricanes. Its inland position shields it from coastal storms, making it one of the safest places to call home.
Kansas
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- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 88.8%
- Total property values at the lowest risk: $209.3 billion
Although Kansas is more commonly associated with tornadoes, its hurricane risk is incredibly low due to its distance from coastal regions. Almost 89% of homes in the state are considered to be in low-risk areas.
Minnesota
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- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 88.5%
- Total property values at the lowest risk: $588.5 billion
With its cold climate and position far from the ocean, Minnesota ranks high in terms of safety from hurricanes. This state offers both affordability and security from natural disasters.
Iowa
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- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 88.4%
- Total property values at the lowest risk: $244.9 billion
Similar to other Midwest states, Iowa benefits from its distance from the coast. The lack of hurricane activity in the state makes it a safe choice for homeowners concerned about extreme weather.
Washington
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- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 88.2%
- Total property values at the lowest risk: $1,299.5 billion
While Washington is often known for its rainy weather, its geographic location in the Pacific Northwest puts it at low risk for hurricanes. The state also offers beautiful landscapes and mild summers, adding to its appeal.
Ohio
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- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 87.6%
- Total property values at the lowest risk: $890.9 billion
Ohio’s inland position and distance from the Atlantic Ocean make it a safer state from hurricanes. With nearly 88% of homes in low-risk areas, Ohio is a practical choice for those seeking a balance between affordability and safety.
South Dakota
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- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 87.4%
- Total property values at the lowest risk: $68 billion
South Dakota is another Midwest state with very low hurricane risk. Its flat landscapes and inland position ensure that homeowners are far removed from the dangers of coastal storms.
Missouri
- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 87%
- Total property values at the lowest risk: $483.2 billion
Missouri rounds out the list of states with the lowest hurricane risk. While the state can experience occasional severe weather, hurricanes pose minimal threat to its residents.
Why Choose a Hurricane-Safe State?
Living in one of the safest states from hurricanes doesn’t just offer protection from these powerful storms—it can also lead to lower home insurance premiums. Homeowners in high-risk states often face skyrocketing premiums or even struggle to find coverage at all. In some areas, such as hurricane-prone Florida, homeowners have opted to forgo insurance altogether, leaving them vulnerable to massive out-of-pocket costs in the event of storm damage.
In safer states, you can enjoy the comfort of knowing your home is less likely to be destroyed by hurricanes or floods, which also helps to keep property values stable. Additionally, Realtor.com offers an environmental risk score, which assesses a property’s risk for hurricanes and other natural disasters like floods and wildfires. Prospective homeowners can use this tool to find properties in states with the lowest hurricane risk, making informed decisions about where to buy their next home.
Safer States Provide Peace of Mind
For those concerned about the increasing frequency and intensity of hurricanes due to climate change, choosing to live in one of the safest states from hurricanes is a smart investment. Whether you prefer the desert landscapes of Nevada or the rolling plains of Nebraska, these states offer a respite from the devastation hurricanes can bring. By opting for a property in a low-risk state, you not only protect your home but also safeguard your financial future.
As Realtor.com notes, many of the safest states from hurricanes also rank high in affordability, making them even more attractive to prospective homebuyers. Whether you’re looking for a new home or considering relocating, keeping hurricane safety in mind is key to making the best decision for you and your family.
