Top 4 Insurance Claims to Avoid this 4th of July

Cooking Fires–  According to the U.S. Fire Administration, cooking fires are the leading cause of structure fires. Make sure that you if you are cooking outdoors you place the grill far enough away from the house that sparks and flames can’t ignite your siding. If your outdoor grill has a grease trap, make sure to empty it.  Grease traps can easily catch fire because the contents are so easy to ignite.  Also, make sure someone is always tending to the grill. Never leave a fire burning unattended. Make sure children and pets steer clear.

Car Accidents– Holidays always pose a higher risk for car accidents because of an increased volume of traffic and a greater chance of drinking and driving. If you are having guests at your home that might be consuming alcohol, be sure to keep an eye on everyone and don’t let anyone drive after consuming alcohol. Even if you aren’t drinking, try to avoid being on the roads as much as possible. Even the safest drivers can be injured by drunk drivers.  (Did you know that social host laws can now hold homeowners (and their homeowners insurance) responsible for car accidents that occur after a driver has consumed alcohol on their property?)

Fireworks Injuries- Fireworks laws vary from state to state but no matter where you are they are equally as dangerous. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that in 2006, 9200 people were treated for firework- related injuries in emergency rooms around the country. Leave the fireworks display to a professional and avoid having them near your property.

Boating Accidents– Over the course of the year there are about 8,000 boating accidents that take place in United States waters.  Since the weather around the 4th of July is typically perfect boating weather, many areas see an spike in boating accidents in the days surrounding our nation’s independence day. If you plan on boating this 4th of July avoid alcohol and remember that Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is just as dangerous as drinking and driving in an automobile. Be sure there are enough life jackets for all passengers and keep children well informed about standard boat safety. Do not let passengers swim while the motor is running and follow the rules of the open sea.

Wishing you a Happy and Safe 4th of July! Your Friends at HomeInsurance.com

Homeowners insurance covers loss or damage to your home; other structures on your property; personal property kept in your home; loss of use;  liability; and medical expenses for accidents that occur on your property. (Get the low down on Home Insurance coverage at Home Insurance 101).

Title insurance, on the other hand, protects your ownership in the real property. Title insurance guarantees that you have true entitlement to the property. Many lenders will require you to carry title insurance so they know for sure that you have clear ownership of the property and the home.

A title insurance company will conduct research before a loan is approved and they search for any outstanding liens, encumbrances or other defects that may hinder the property ownership from becoming solely yours. Once the Title Insurance company is sure that that property does not hold any such liens, the Title Insurance Company will  issue title insurance. This protects the owner from anyone else trying to claim ownership of the property.

“Are homeowners insurance and home insurance the same thing? My sister told me that home insurance only protects the house whereas homeowners insurance includes liability coverage- is this true?”

It’s a good question, but the truth is, when an insurance agent refers to home insurance or homeowners insurance they are typically talking about the same type of policy. A standard home insurance or homeowners insurance policy includes coverage for the structure of the home and liability.

Here’s how it works:

Your home insurance, or homeowners insurance, policy will include a certain amount of dwelling coverage. Dwelling coverage protects the structure of your home in the event it is destroyed or damaged in a covered peril. Your dwelling coverage is calculated based on the replacement cost of your home. (Here is a Dwelling Coverage calculator  that can help you determine how much dwelling coverage you may need).

Aside from dwelling coverage, your policy will typically also include coverage for other structures on your property such as detached garages and sheds. This coverage is calculated as a percentage of your dwelling coverage.

Your homeowners (or home insurance) policy will also usually include personal property coverage. This coverages replaces the contents of your home if they are lost in a covered peril. This is typically about 50-70% of whatever amount of dwelling coverage you have.

Loss of use is also usually included in a standard policy and pays for alternative living expenses in the event your home is damaged in a covered peril and you can not live in it.

MedPay is the portion of your home insurance policy that covers medical expenses in the event someone is injured on your property and a lawsuit is not involved.

Finally, your homeowners insurance will also include liability coverage. This portion of your homeowners insurance protects you in the event you are presented with a lawsuit. The minimum amount of liability coverage included in a home insurance policy is typically $100,000. However that figure can usually be increased to over a million dollars in coverage if neccessary (and depending on your provider).

So, when you refer to home insurance and homeowners insurance you are talking about the same standard type of policy as outlined above. For more details on home insurance coverage, visit Home Insurance 101.

Most homeowners are already aware that since their home insurance policy offers liability coverage there are certain dog breeds and dog related claims than can cause your insurance premiums to go up. The list of  “dangerous breeds” varies from one company to the next but most of them almost always include:

• Pit bulls
• Rottweilers
• German Shepherds
• Malamutes
• Huskies
• Chow Chows
• Dobermans

Other breeds considered dangerous by your insurance company may include American Staffordshire Terriers, Stafford Bull Terriers, Akitas, Great Danes and Bull Mastiffs. Many advocates of the breeds listed above defend the notion that an entire breed should not be considered “dangerous” simply because certain dogs of that breed are more prone to inflicting injuries. Insurance companies, however, use data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) which shows that these breeds are more likely to cause injuries and death than other breeds.

The truth is, any dog breed can cause an injury. So even if you have a Golden Retriever (which is a breed commonly known for non-aggressive behavior) that causes an insurance claim on your homeowners policy- expect to see some changes on your homeowners insurance.

Insurance companies will typically choose to either not insure a homeowner who owns a “dangerous” dog or to offer them higher than normal premiums. This is because they consider that homeowner to be  more likely to file a liability claim than a non-dog owner or an owner of a non-aggressive dog.

The truth is, even a well behaved, non-agressive dog can display aggressive behavior out of the blue. So you should know how to prevent dog claims on your property in order to keep your insurance premiums down.

Here are a few tips:

Socialize your pooch: This applies especially to dogs who might be skittish or aggressive towards new people or other animals. Try taking your dog to a dog park or dog training class where there are other dogs around so that they get comfortable socializing with new animals and new people. Keep your dog leashed until you can be sure they are comfortable with new faces around them. This can help your dog when it comes to new people or animals entering your property.

Post a Sign: Keep a sign on your property or fence that lets visitors know that there is a dog on the premises. This may help deter neighbors or neighborhood children from entering a fenced-in area without knocking or making sure you are home and the dog is comfortable with them entering.

Fenced Off: This may seem obvious to most but some new dog owners may not realize the importance of having a fenced in area for their dog. This not only keeps your dog safe but can also prevent the pooch from roaming the neighborhood or chasing the neighbor’s child who is riding their bike down the street. Get a fence that your dog cannot dig under or squeeze through to make sure they are properly secured.

Spay/Neuter: Dogs that are spayed and neutered are often much less likely to roam. If your dog has not yet been spayed or neutered you should talk to your vet about this option.

For more information about dog-related liability claims visit: Lawsuits Can Take a Bite Out of Your Wallet; Be a Responsible Dog Owner.

Some homeowners insurance policies will provide limited coverage for a stamp collection, however, oftentimes the amount of limited coverage provided is not enough.

Here are some tips for properly insuring your stamp collection:

Estimate Value- The first step in protecting your collection is to obtain a professional appraisal on the value of your stamp collection. While you may have an estimated figure in mind, you will often need a documented appraisal by an expert in order to obtain the insurance coverage you need.

Assess your Needs- If you have a homeowners insurance policy you should call your homeowners insurance agent to find out how much coverage (if any) you have on your policy for your collection. This will tell you the difference that you need to cover. Some policies, for example, will provide up to $1,000 in contents coverage for stamps. Others may offer higher or lower limits.

Shop your Options- A stamp collector will typically have two options when it comes to insuring their collection:

• Scheduling an endorsement on their homeowners insurance policy
• Purchasing a separate personal articles floater

Talk to your homeowners insurance agent to find out what your homeowners insurance carrier can offer. However, you can also shop for a personal articles floater from a specialty insurer. Compare pricing, coverage and limits on each type of policy so that you are sure to get the coverage you need and are most comfortable with.

Inventory- Regardless of the type of policy you purchase, you will want to maintain a thorough inventory of every stamp in your collection so that you have proof of ownership in the event of a loss. Include photographs and receipts. For stamps and covers (envelopes) over $500 get a “cert” from the Philatelic Foundation, Professional Stamp Experts or the American Philatelic Society to help substantiate ownership and value. Store your inventory in a safe place outside of your home.

Revisit Your Coverage- An avid collector may find their collection’s value increasing frequently over time. Be sure that you always have enough coverage to protect your investment.

Protect- Like any valuable collection, a stamp collection needs to be protected. Keep your collection safe by keeping it in a fire and water proof safe. Protect it from theft by following these tips from the American Philatelic Society.

For additional information you should contact your insurance agent as they are always your best resource for determining the coverage you need.

St. Louis

This midwestern city makes our list not because of its low home insurance premiums and property tax but for its median home value of $95,000. St. Louis is a favorite for affordability due to the walkability of the downtown area as well as the low public transit fares. St. Louis is also home to more than 100 neighborhood parks for some free family fun. With the money you save, you can check out the city’s hopping brewery scene – don’t overlook Fitz’s Root Beer, either – or kick back at a St. Louis Cardinals game.

• Median home price: $95,500
• Average property tax:  $2,320
• Average home insurance premiums: $984
• Population: 318,172

Cincinnati

This Ohio city ranks highly because of low home prices and below average home insurance premiums. Cincinnati has tons of perks including a growing economy – it’s home to 10 Fortune 500 companies, including Kroger Co. and The Procter & Gamble Company.  In your free time, visit the Cincinnati Zoo or one of the many great area museums. Looking to spend the day outside? Head over to The Dan Beard 5-Mile Riverwalk Trail and take in views of the Cincinnati skyline and the beautiful Ohio River.

• Median home price: $96,100
• Average property tax: $2,362
• Average home insurance premiums: $702
• Population: 296,550

3. Winston-Salem, NC

Between the low cost of living, the moderate climate and fast job growth, homebuyers can’t go wrong in Winston-Salem, NC. This southern city comes with a rich historical background, beautiful tree-lined streets and more 35 nearby wineries. Wine isn’t your thing? Head to Foothills Brewing in downtown Winston-Salem and try out some local craft beer. And don’t worry, there’s plenty of free family fun as well. On a nice day (which is not rare in NC), local residents recommend heading to Salem Lake for a little fishing or bike riding.

• Median home price: $112,100
• Average property tax: $1,462
• Average home insurance premiums: $611
• Population: 234,349

4. Tucson, AZ

Looking for an affordable desert oasis? Here you’ll find beautiful homes, sunny weather and plenty of things to do. Additionally, Tucson is home to a growing job market. In fact, in 2013 it was named the second best city to find a job by CareerBliss.com. A great place for people with an active lifestyle, the city is surrounded by five mountain ranges where residents can go hiking, rock climbing or mountain biking. And if you need any more convincing, the city experiences an average of 350 days of sunshine per year.

• Median home price: $130,500
• Average property tax: $1,678
• Average home insurance premiums: $625
• Population: 524,295

5. Richmond, VA

Richmond makes our list because of its below average home insurance premiums and moderately priced homes – plus it’s a great place to put down roots. This up and coming city has a buzzing craft beer scene and a variety of farm-to-table restaurants. On weekends, residents can enjoy activities including rafting and kayaking on the James River or pedaling through some of Richmond’s many biking trails. Don’t forget historic sites including Monument Avenue and the Richmond Liberty Trail.

• Median home price: $140,100
• Average property tax: $2,202
• Average home insurance premiums: $737
• Population: 210,309

Ranking Criteria
HomeInsurance.com used the number of mentions on best places to live, most affordable places to live, and other lists to qualify the top 5 cities. We focused on mid-sized cities with populations ranging from 100,000-600,000.

Sources
https://homeinsurance.com/rates-in-your-state/
http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/index.html
http://money.cnn.com/interactive/real-estate/property-tax/
http://www.zillow.com/local-info/

Suddenly, you’re talking national-championship caliber experience.

HomeInsurance.com took a look at cities, max population 150,000, with relatively low population densities, that could claim these collegiate necessities. The goal? To find the hidden gems among college towns in America – in many cases, the path less traveled.

The results showcase a diverse array from all regions that would appeal to aspiring students and faculty alike.

1. Fargo, ND: You’re darn tootin’

Its status as a flourishing arts scene and lively community of bars and restaurants, as well as North Dakota State University’s athletic success, pushes Fargo to the top of the list. The Bison won an opening-round tournament in the college  basketball tournament and are three-time defending national champs in the second-highest level of college football.

Fargo’s Plains Arts Museum is the biggest from Minneapolis to Seattle.

2. Bellingham, WA: Just-right java and temperatures

Life at Western Washington University is mostly pleasant – the mean temperature in this Seattle suburb is 55-75 F for 74 days a year. It’s perfect weather for a gallery walk uptown, or to check out local music and poetry slams. One warning – it rains an average of about 35 inches a year.

You can’t be this close to Seattle without the perks of a stellar coffee-house scene, either.

3. Dayton, OH: Taking flight

An average rent of $615 makes Dayton, Ohio a great collegiate destination – and leaves you extra money to spend at a local coffee house, such as Boston Stoker or Winans Fine Chocolates and Coffee. The Dayton Flyers men’s basketball team made it to the regional finals in 2014.

The Dayton Art Institute and Dayton Philharmonic also are draws.

4. Gainesville, FL: Fun in the sun

OK, Gainesville really isn’t all that hidden – is anywhere in Florida? But the Florida sun isn’t the only attraction. The University of Florida’s football team might have had a rebuilding year, but Billy Donovan’s men’s basketball program is among college basketball’s elite.

Gainesville has long been a force in the live music scene, too.

5. Charlottesville, VA: Wahoo are you?

Set between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Chesapeake Bay, Charlottesville sidesteps many extremes in weather. Nice days and a pedestrian friendly downtown make for a beautiful stroll to Cafe Cubano or Mudhouse.

Sports-wise, it helps that the University of Virginia is back again among the men’s basketball elite of the Atlantic Coast Conference.

6. Albany, NY: Capital city rocks the arts

New York’s capital is hardly hidden, either, though few think of it as a college town. The city, however, is home to a branch of the State University of New York, as well as several private colleges. And few college towns offer such a walker-friendly, restaurant-abundant and coffee-shop wealthy community. There’s even an underground art scene in Albany. The Albany Center Gallery celebrates the work of regional artists in contemporary visual art.

7. Kenosha, WI: Lakeside living

Don’t let Kenosha’s spot along Lake Michigan fool you – there are plenty of sunny days for the home of the Carthage College Red Men and Lady Reds. It’s easy to get where you’re going by foot downtown and around the Carthage lakeside campus.

Kenosha has a wealth of ethnic fare and scenic dining by the lake. That makes the top 10 even prettier.

8. Dubuque, IA: Walking the walk

At just more than $600 for average rent, this Mississippi River town is the second-most affordable housing option on our list. The University of Dubuque has a storied athletics history, with regular spots among conference leaders for the football and basketball teams.

Walkscore.com calls Dubuque a ‘Walker’s Paradise’: So much of its downtown is walkable in a 20-minute time frame.

9 (tie). Norman, OK: The stars come out

Blake Griffin and Adrian Peterson are among the famous athletics alumni of the University of Oklahoma – part of a heritage that makes Norman shine brightly. The Norman Arts Council powers the cultural scene, including the Norman Music Festival each spring.

Icons such as Legend’s and The Garage are eclectic mainstays in the Norman social landscape.

Appleton, WI: You won’t fall from from the trees

Tree-lined, safe, and affordable: Living in Appleton is easy. For a town in Wisconsin, it rates well for pleasant days (60). Downtown Appleton is home to places like Copper Rock Coffee Company, which regularly hosts live music.

As for sports, Lawrence University’s football team has won 16 conference titles.

Criteria

Rankings are based on:

• Off-campus housing costs (median gross rent in 2011 by city-data.com)
• Sports (men’s basketball and football winning percentage, combined)
• Pleasant days – via http://www.kellegous.com/j/2014/02/03/pleasant-places/
• Walk score http://www.walkscore.com/
• Eats/spirits score from U.S. Census data for establishments in the city
• Number of coffee houses in town on Yelp

To rank home insurance costs in these top U.S. suburbs, we ran quotes with leading U.S. carriers on the same three-bedroom, two-bathroom, 2,000-square-foot home in each community.  The only variable? Location. As it turns out, where you are in the U.S. can have you paying up to three times as much for coverage than the owner of a comparable house in another suburb.

What is it about location that impacts home insurance costs so heavily? Risk of natural disaster, local building costs, and the area’s insured loss history have a lot to do with it.

10) Arlington (Dallas), TX: Average premium $1,761

Why it’s high: Dallas’ suburbs  are the most expensive of the areas we studied to insure a home: The Dallas area has experienced the highest cost of property damage for the past 10 years for the cities on the list, with $1.601 billion in repairs. It also ranks highest with total Federal Emergency Management Agency-declared disasters. Total insurance premiums may reach even higher because of flood insurance requirements in some areas.

9)    Lakewood (Denver), CO: Average premium $1,379

Why it’s high: Although Denver’s natural disaster numbers are relatively low, the area experienced some of the most expensive property damage, piling up nearly $147.782 million during the past 10 years. The Denver area also experiences something called the Denver Convergence Vorticity Zone, an area particularly susceptible to high winds, tornadoes, and other extreme weather. This makes Lakewood, like other Denver suburbs, an expensive place to insure a home.

8)    Highland Park (Chicago), IL: Average premium $876

Why it’s high: Located on Lake Michigan in a quaint suburb north of Chicago, Highland Park experiences two extremes. On one hand, the lake can act as a regulating force for temperature swings and storms. On the other, lake effect wind, snow, and ice can become crippling in the winter. This back and forth tug, in addition to the third highest construction costs on our list, keeps Highland Park area premiums high. For example, the sample home we quoted in Highland Park would carry a $352,000 replacement cost price tag. The same home in other cities on our list would cost only about $250,000 to replace. That extra replacement cost coverage has a big impact on premiums.

7)    Franklin (Nashville), TN: Average premium $844

Why it’s in the middle: During the past 10 years, FEMA has declared 16 natural disasters for the area – the second greatest number on our list. The county also has experienced $1.593 billion in property damage losses from tornadoes, thunderstorms, and other disasters. On the other hand, local construction costs are lower than in other parts of the country, so the homes in the area don’t require as much dwelling coverage as they would in other cities on the list.

6)    Hudson (New York City), NY: Average premium $837

Why it’s in the middle: Hudson shares the Big Apple’s weather problems. Like New York City, it’s pulled between two extremes. Hudson experiences the lowest property damage costs (only $1.434 million during the past 10 years) and fewest total weather events (only 102 since 2004). Nonetheless, it also has the highest number of major disaster declarations by FEMA (22) and some of the highest local construction costs. This give and take is what keeps Hudson squarely in the middle of our list for both premiums and disasters.

Now compare those with some of the lesser expensive suburbs to insure a home- all of which fall below the national average homeowners insurance premium:

5)    Merion Station (Philadelphia), PA: Average premium $704

Why it’s in the middle: FEMA has only declared 17 total disasters for Pennsylvania in the past 10 years; that’s the lowest number on our list. Accordingly, Pennsylvania typically sets low rates statewide, second only to Arizona on our list. Relatively high construction costs may counteract some of the low risks involved, however, to bump up your rates. It may not always be sunny in Philadelphia, but at least the homeowners insurance premiums won’t break your bank.

4)    Alamo Heights (San Antonio): Average premium $702

Why it’s in the middle: Texas typically has higher statewide rates because it is vulnerable to every major natural disaster: Tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, drought, wildfires, and thunderstorms all plague Texas, causing property damage and considerable insurance risk. San Antonio shares the top number of FEMA-declared natural disasters on our list with Dallas. Nonetheless, Alamo Heights is one of the least expensive on our list for home replacement costs – which means homes in the area require less dwelling coverage. Since insurers know that rebuilding is easier and less expensive than in other parts of the country, premiums typically are lower.

3)    West Hollywood (Los Angeles), CA: Average premium $684

Why it’s low:  Similar to much of the West Coast, especially recently, West Hollywood frequently experiences dry spells. Droughts, while devastating to local businesses, don’t generate a great deal of insurance claims. The Los Angeles area has only experienced nine natural disaster days with injury in the last 10 years. The clear skies over West Hollywood may lower residents’ premiums below the national average ($831 as of May 31), but the high cost of building in the star-struck town raises it to the middle of our list. Our sample home in West Hollywood had the highest replacement cost compared with the same home in any other city assessed. It required $388,000 in dwelling coverage, so it’s a good thing disaster risk is lower in the area.

2)    Chula Vista (San Diego), CA: Average premium $628

Why it’s low: Chula Vista has a relatively low frequency of major natural disaster declarations by FEMA. Additionally, the suburb boasts a low crime rate and Mediterranean-style weather. These pleasant characteristics make Chula Vista a great place to live and a good place to insure a home. The natural disasters that Chula Vista does face include earthquakes, floods, high winds, and wildfires, which bump up the city’s disaster risk significantly. However, insured losses between 2010 and 2013 were low – helping to keep homeowners insurance affordable for the community. (Residents might be required to purchase either earthquake or flood insurance or both, thereby bumping up total insurance costs.)

1)    Mesa (Phoenix), AZ: Average premium $555

Why it’s low: Mesa is in the Sonoran Desert, making it hot much of the year but not as prone to violent storm damage. Of the states we evaluated, Arizona had the lowest statewide rates. However, no state is excluded from natural disasters and losses.  High winds, wildfires, and even floods impact Arizona from time to time.  A standard home insurance policy excludes coverage for flood damage, so residents of Mesa may have to purchase a separate flood insurance policy, therefore bumping up their total insurance costs. In the end, Mesa had a low number of major disaster declarations by FEMA, as well as low insured losses, helping to keep homeowners insurance premiums down.

Where does your suburb measure up? In general, if your area has a high risk of natural disaster, a history of large insured losses, and higher than average building costs- the insurance premiums will reflect it.

Data Sources:

1. Average premiums: Proprietary quoting data from HomeInsurance.com. Rates were compared with up to four carriers in each location.

2. Insured loss risk was tabulated from the Verisk Analytics ISO Property Claim Service Map. A rating of 1-10 was assigned based on the risk designations. http://www.verisk.com/property-claim-services/natural-disasters.html

3. Total recorded weather events from Jan. 1, 2004 to Jan.1, 2014 NOAA National Climatic Data Center Storm Events Database from Jan.1, 2004 to Jan. 1, 2014. http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/

4. Total cost of property damage from Jan. 1, 2004 to Jan.1, 2014: NOAA National Climatic Data Center Storm Events Database from Jan.1, 2004 to Jan. 1, 2014.  http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/

5. FEMA major disaster declarations from Jan.1, 2004 to Jan.1, 2014. http://www.fema.gov/disasters/grid/state-tribal-government

6. FEMA major disaster declarations from Jan.1, 2004 to Jan.1, 2014. http://www.fema.gov/disasters/grid/state-tribal-government

7. Total weather event days with personal injury or death from Jan. 1, 2004 to Jan.1, 2014: NOAA

8. Dwelling Coverage (Coverage A) was calculated by HomeInsurance.com proprietary quoting tools, using one standard home size in each suburb analyzed. The sample home quoted was a 2000-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bathroom brick house.

However, the hurricane – which had reached wind speeds of 125 mph – barreled on, filling Lake Okeechobee with rainwater, causing it to overflow and spill out like a tidal wave. The category 4 Okeechobee Hurricane claimed about 2,500 lives and washed away towns entirely.

Of course, most hurricanes that hit the Sunshine State aren’t that intense or deadly. However, the Atlantic Oceanographic & Meteorological Laboratory’s Hurricane Research Division reports that 40% of U.S. hurricanes hit Florida. With hurricane season officially beginning June 1, HomeInsurance.com has ranked the 10 most hurricane-safe cities in the state.

1. Leesburg

Leesburg is Florida’s most hurricane safe city due to its hurricane and tropical storm scores of zero combined with a low flood score. The city occupies about 24 square miles of central Florida’s Lake County and is home to more than 21,000 residents.

Leesburg’s population has risen over the years due to many retirees flying south and Orlando residents loving the location but not the crowdedness of the city. Leesburg hosts a motorcycle festival called Leesburg Bikefest every spring, which has drawn more than 250,000 visitors to the city each year since 1997.

2. Orlando

Orlando is the largest city on our list with more than 255,000 people calling the Orange County city home. Orlando has the second lowest combined tropical storm, flood, and hurricane scores on our list, which make enjoying the “Theme Park Capital of the World” that much more enjoyable.

More than 62 million visitors flocked to Orlando in 2014 to see Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and the Wet ‘n Wild water park, to name a few. Orlando also has beautiful golf courses, professional sports teams including the Magic, and rich culture.

3. Sanford

Yet another central Florida city joins the ranks of the most hurricane safe cities. Sanford is situated in Seminole County and is home to more than 56,000 Floridians. Being in Sanford is like traveling back in time due to the city’s brick-lined streets and old Victorian homes.

Sanford residents form strong community bonds as they come together in the downtown area for jazz concerts in Magnolia Square, monthly street parties, and plays and musicals at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center. Residents also stay active by using walking and jogging trails that overlook Lake Monroe.

4. Kissimmee

Like Leesburg, Kissimmee is featured among Florida’s most hurricane safe cities due to scores of zero referencing hurricanes and tropical storms. Kissimmee stretches across more than 17 square miles of Osceola County.

More than 65,000 people reside in Kissimmee and love to explore the central Florida city by going on airboat rides to see the native wildlife. Kissimmee is full of adventure and is located near Orlando, which allows residents to enjoy the benefits of the bigger city without the hustle and bustle. Kissimmee is a tranquil city that provides protection from severe storms.

5. Palatka

Palatka is the smallest city on our list with about 10,500 residents. Though the Putnam County city is tiny, it has plenty of culture and activities to keep its residents pleased. Palatka is home to the Ravine Gardens State Park, which features two popular annual festivals – the Blue Crab Festival and the Florida Azalea Festival. Parks and historical districts are speckled across the 7.5 square mile city.

6. Lake City

This Columbia County city is home to more than 12,000 residents and ranks as No. 6 on our list of most hurricane safe cities in the Sunshine State. In fact, Lake City’s placement on the list is mostly attributed to the hurricane score of 0, combined with low tropical storm and flood scores. Lake City occupies about 12 square miles of northcentral Florida.

The city features several festivals including the Olustee Battle Festival which re-enacts the Battle of Olustee and the Alligator Warrior Festival which strives to demonstrate how the original residents of the area lived in the 19^th century are both hosted in or near Lake City.

7. Naples

Naples extends over more than 16 miles of Collier County and has about 19,500 residents. The southern Florida city is one of the wealthiest in the country and is a popular tourist and retirement destination. Residents and tourists alike enjoy the fair weather of Naples while exploring the land reserves, 10-mile-long beach, vineyards, golf courses, art galleries, and shopping opportunities.

8. Ocala

Ocala secured the No. 8 slot because of low flood and tropical storm scores, along with a hurricane score of zero. Ocala has a population of more than 53,000 and is located among 38 square miles of Marion County.

Residents of Ocala enjoy the fantastic weather at the nearby Silver Springs Nature Theme Park, the Ocala National Forest – the second largest forest in the Sunshine State – and along the Florida National Scenic Trail and Ocklawaha River.

9. Gainesville

Gainesville is the final city with a hurricane score of zero, which is why it made its way onto our top 10 list of most hurricane safe cities in Florida. More than 127,000 folks call the city home, and it spans about 62 square miles of Alachua County.

The University of Florida is in Gainesville, and like most college towns, it has endless culture. Gainesville is home to the Florida Museum of Natural History, Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Hippodrome State Theater, and the Harn Museum of Art. Add in the University of Florida College of Fine Arts musical, dance, and art shows, and you’ve got the perfect city for anyone that appreciates the arts. Any Gator football and basketball fans love residing in the city, too.

10. Fernandina Beach

The 10^th Sunshine State city on the list is Fernandina Beach. More than 11,500 people reside in the Nassau County city, and it ranks on our list due to low combined tropical storm, hurricane, and flood scores. Fernandina Beach is known as the “Isle of Eight Flags” because it’s the only American municipality that has featured the national flags of eight countries – Great Britain, France, the Patriot Republic of Florida, Spain, Mexico, the Latin American Patriots’ Green Cross of Florida, United States, and the Confederate States of America. The city spans more than 15 square miles of Florida, and residents most enjoy celebrating the city’s culture and fair weather at the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival.

So if you’re looking to escape to Florida for a week or to move there permanently, choose any of these 10 cities to be at less of a risk for severe weather strikes. Florida home insurance covers damage from high winds but not from flooding. Permanent residents should consider a separate flood policy for that.

Following is full listing of the cities considered:

Methodology

Hurricane, Tropical Storm and Flood scores are out of a possible 20 points where 0 is the best and 20 is the worst score.  For the hurricanes, tropical storms, and flood scores, HomeInsurance.com analysts reviewed all individual storm events identified by the NOAA Storm Events Database from 1965 to October 2014 and weighted scores as follows: # of storm event occurrences (35%), # of direct storm event related deaths (25%), # of direct storm related incidents of property damage (25%) and # of direct storm event related injuries (15%).

The total score is also weighted as follows: Hurricanes (50%), Tropical Storms (35%), and Floods (15%). The Tropical Storm score encompasses incidents of both tropical storms and tropical depressions. The Flood score encompasses incidents of floods, flash floods, coastal floods and storm surges.

For data sources only available on a county level, cites were assigned points based on the information for the county in which the city is predominantly located. Analysts only looked at FL cities with a population of 10,000 or above. Tiebreakers were given to cities with a larger population.

Photo credit for preview image: Flickr user/Jim Moore

HomeInsurance.com  recently crunched the numbers to determine which U.S. cities are growing the fastest and why they might be popular with movers. We started by turning to the U.S. Census to determine the 50 metropolitan and micropolitan areas that have shown the greatest percentage growth since 2010 – because of a tie for 50^th we ended up with 51 cities.

From there, we ranked them further on factors as home value, combine household income and the average costs of home and renters insurance. Yes, we got some of the standard top cities to move to such as Raleigh, NC, and Austin, TX. But we also found some hidden gems as well.. If you’re seeking a change of scenery, make sure you check out these 25 cities.

1. Heber, UT

Heber City is situated among the mountains of northcentral Utah. The micropolitan area  is home to about 13,000 residents. If you love spending time outdoors, this picturesque city is ideal. In Heber City, you can hike the Uinta Mountains that surround the town, fish on the Provo River, enjoy water sports on Mirror Lake, cross country ski, golf, or go for a walk through Jordanelle State Park.

2. Dickinson, ND

Dickinson is a town rich in history that spans about 10 square miles of southwest North Dakota. With the recent oil boom, new residents have been flocking to the city. The Dakota Dinosaur Museum is a popular attraction in the city that features displays from all over the world as well as a Triceratops skill discovered near Dickinson. Residents can also explore the Theodore Roosevelt Center, art galleries, the Ukrainian Cultural Institute, or go for a scenic drive along the Enchanted Highway or one of the nearby byways.

3. Williston, ND

Williston is a northwest North Dakota town that has been named the nation’s fastest-growing micropolitan area for the past three years due to the North Dakota oil boom.

History buffs would love to explore Fort Buford, the Cut Bluff Overlook, the Old Armory, and the Fort Union Trading Post – all of which offer insights into the eras of Lewis and Clark, pioneers, fur trading, and the early days of the military. If nature is more of your scene, enjoy the site called The Confluence, which is where the Missouri River and Yellowstone River meet or Lake Sakakawea for outdoor recreation.

4. Vernal, UT

The beautiful city of Vernal sits in the northeastern portion of the state just 20 miles from the Colorado border.

If you have a sense of adventure, Vernal is the location for you. Climb to Kings Peak in Ashley National Forest; explore the natural art gallery complete with paintings and etchings from ancient cultures at Nine Mile Canyon; walk along the Dinosaur Trackway to see exposed tracks left by hundreds of dinosaurs in the sandstone at Red Fleet State Park; and enjoy the sights at Steinaker State Park, the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum, Western Heritage Museum, and Dry Fork Petroglyphs.

5. Raleigh, NC

The capital city of North Carolina is a fantastic place for music lovers. Raleigh is home to the Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion at Walnut Creek as well as several amphitheaters. That means the city attracts many national and international artists.

The city also has theaters that allow for performances from the North Carolina Symphony, the Carolina Ballet, Theatre in the Park, the Opera Company of North Carolina, the North Carolina Theatre, the Burning Coal Theatre Company, and Broadway Series South, alongside performances from North Carolina State University, which is located in the city.

6. Bismarck, ND

Bismarck is an interesting spot for new residents. The capital of North Dakota is known for points of interest such as Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, which features partial reconstructions of Fort Abraham Lincoln and On-a-Slant Village – an earthlodge village previously inhabited by the Mandan tribe.

Bismarck also has plenty of outdoor recreation with five golf courses, year-round fishing on the Missouri River, and hunting game such as deer, waterfowl, and pheasant. This bigger town has a strong sense of community, making it an easy adjustment for any newcomers. In 2007, nearly 9,000 residents came together to break the record for most snow angels in one place. Now that’s a close-knit community.

7. The Villages, FL

This central Florida destination earns a spot on our list due to the fact that it has doubled in size since the 2010 census. The Villages was formed as a retirement community and has 39 golf courses as well as nightly activities held in the three town squares. The Villages micro area now includes more than 114,000 residents.

8. Austin, TX

Austin is a city filled to the brim with character. Known for being the Live Music Capital of the World and the location of the SXSW music festival, Austin has nearly 200 venues for music lovers to hear all kinds of music from rock to blues to hip hop.

The city is known for its creative residents and is home to several art museums and galleries such as the Harry Ransom Center and Contemporary at the Jones Center that you can tour, but the attractions don’t stop there. Go on a guided historic walking tour or stop by the Bullock Texas State History Museum to learn more about the city’s – and state’s – story or just explore the recreational opportunities, nightlife, fine dining, and shopping.

9. Minot, ND

Minot is known as the “Magic City,” which references its momentous population growth. The city is big on the arts and has more than 40 organizations – including a youth/punk concert organization and an opera company – with membership to the Minot Area Council on the Arts.

It’s not all about the arts, though. Minot operates 17 parks for those who lead an active lifestyle, and hosts the annual North Dakota State Fair at the Fair Grounds.

10. Midland, TX

If Friday Night Lights is near and dear to your heart, you’d love Midland, Texas, which is one of two cities that inspired the TV show. Midland is a town with a strong sports presence. Whether you’re cheering on high school football, the Midland Rockhounds or West Texas Drillers baseball teams, the Odessa Jackalopes hockey team, the West Texas United Sockers soccer team, the Sandhills Rodeo, or the West Texas Wildcatters football league, Midland is ideal for sports fanatics.

If sports isn’t your thing, no problem. Midland is a well-rounded city that also offers plenty of recreation, nightlife, and arts and culture.

11. Summit Park, UT

Summit Park spans more than 21 square miles of northcentral Utah. The town is situated among the mountains, which makes for a picturesque landscape surrounding the residences.

Being a smaller town, it has a strong sense of community. Neighbors take turns opening up their homes to fellow residents for a potluck-style meal and happy hour. Sounds like nurture and nature to us.

12. Hilton Head, SC

Beach bums would love relocating to Hilton Head Island. The gorgeous city has quaint beaches, a local winery, watersports, golf courses, shopping, fine dining, and recreation.

Hilton Head is the perfect place for families as it offers interactive children’s museums, adventure cruises, dolphin watching, and much more. Families have endless choices to bond and enjoy the fantastic weather, and parents have several fun activities to take advantage of when they want a night out without the kids.

13. St. George, UT

St. George is perfect for those who love being outdoors and learning about the history of the west. With the annual St. George Arts Festival, the springtime is filled with events such as Art in the Park and Concerts in the Park, which take place in Vernon Worthen Park. Families can head to Sunset on the Square during the summer months to watch popular movies on a large inflatable screen at Town Square Park. Runners enjoy taking part in the St. George Marathon, which is one of the Boston-qualifying marathons.

There are several other outdoor festivals for friends and families to enjoy. History buffs can stroll through the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site to learn more about the creatures that walked the Earth long before our existence.

14. Daphne, AL

This southwest Alabama town lies on the shoreline of Mobile Bay and stretches across about 17.5 square miles of land. Daphne is known as the Jubilee City due to the phenomenon where fish, shrimp, and blue crabs come into shallow waters, allowing locals to easily wade into the bay, catch them, and yell “jubilee!” per tradition.

Thus, Daphne has amazing seafood for residents and visitors to enjoy year-round. That sounds pretty enticing.

15. Naples, FL

Naples is known as a fantastic vacation destination with its white sand beaches and activities and adventures in the Everglades, but it’s a wonderful place to reside, too. Whether you prefer to enjoy the serenity of the beach or go on a swamp buggy adventure, an Everglade air boat ride, or a nature tour of the Everglades, you’ll never be bored in Naples.

Like many Florida towns, Naples has an abundance of top-notch golf courses and fine restaurants.

16. Charleston, SC

Charleston is the oldest city in South Carolina as well as the fastest-growing city in the state, and it’s the perfect destination for those seeking a town that embodies the ‘Southern hospitality’ mantra. The city is known for its beauty, which is due in large part to the well-preserved architecture. Each year, the city has the Festival of Houses and Gardens, which allows residents and visitors to tour the Old & Historic District and see the 18th century architecture up close.

Charleston also hosts a number of other festivals including the prestigious Spoleto Festival USA – a 17-day art festival featuring more than 100 artists of all varieties.

17. Bozeman, MT

Bozeman, home to Montana State University, has been steadily climbing up the list of biggest cities in the state. Bozeman has been named the best place for skiing in the West and is an ideal spot for winter sports as well as other recreation.

This beautiful city is full of adventure with the Lewis and Clark Caverns, Madison Buffalo Jump State Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Missouri Headwaters State Park all in the vicinity.

18. Andrews, TX

Andrews is a town in West Texas named after the first soldier to die in the Texas Revolution. It spans nearly five square miles, and officials have been making strides to better the town and attract new residents and businesses.

Andrews offers venues for golf and other recreation, a bird viewing trail, and many festivals to attend such as the Wild Wild West Fest.

19. Bend, OR

The slogan of Bend is ‘It’s where you go to play.’ Bend combines the thrills of outdoor recreation such as rafting, paddle boarding, mountain biking, and hiking with the sophistication of a regular city. Bend also has many breweries – more per capita than any other Oregon city – allowing residents to work hard and play hard. The Bend Ale Trail is perfect for those who love a good brew.

20. Casper, WY

Casper sits at the foot of the Casper Mountain and is the second largest city in the state. Casper is known for being an oil town as well as a cowboy haven. Explore the city by biking, walking, or running through the parks and trails; touring the Fort Caspar Museum; or hitting the links at the Casper Municipal Golf Course.

21. Denver, CO

The Mile High City is situated among the Rocky Mountains and has endless things for residents to do – no matter what their interests may be, despite the season. Adventure lovers can raft, zipline, ski, bike, hike, etc. all around Denver.

Sports fans can rejoice as Denver is home to seven professional teams including the Nuggets, Rockies, and Broncos. Art and music enthusiasts have tons of galleries to take in and concert venues to check out including Red Rocks. Factor in the world-class dining and unparalleled scenery and you get an incredibly well-rounded city.

22. Fort Collins, CO

Fort Collins lies in the northern part of the state and offers a small town vibe while having all the perks of a bigger city. As the home of Colorado State University, much of the city’s culture derives from the institution. The downtown area hosts several festivals which feature local businesses, music, and food vendors. Fort Collins is home to several microbreweries and hosts the Colorado Brewer’s Festival each summer.

23. Fargo, ND

Fargo is the largest city in North Dakota, spanning more than 48 square miles. The city is home to North Dakota State University, and Bison fans love to flock there for sporting events. Fargo is also the location of the Plains Art Museum, which is the largest art museum in the state. For a smaller town, Fargo offers plenty of activities for residents to enjoy.

24. Odessa, TX

Odessa stretches over 44 square miles of West Texas. Odessa is an interesting town as it has the Globe of the Great Southwest – a carbon copy of William Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre – which hosts the Shakespeare Festival as well as other plays.

Another appealing point of interest is Odessa’s Presidential Museum and Leadership Library, which is dedicated to the office of the presidency rather than one specific former leader of the nation

25. Sioux Falls, SD

The city of Sioux Falls is the largest in all of South Dakota and is the fastest-growing city in the state. The city sits along the banks of the Big Sioux River, making for gorgeous scenery. It hosts many annual events including the SculptureWalk, which features pieces that often reflect historically significant events; First Fridays, which take place on the first Friday of each month of summer and allow local vendors to gather and put on a big event for residents; Party in the Park which is an annual music festival at Terrace Park; and several others..

Following is a listing of the cities considered:

Methodology

We started with the 51 U.S. metropolitan and micropolitan statistical areas that show the greatest percentage growth according to the U.S. Census Burea between 2010 and 2014 – we planned to take the top 50 but a tie for 50^th place resulted in the extra city. All scores are out of a possible 51 points where 51 is the best and 0 is the worst score.  The total score weighted as follows: Largest percentage population growth (40%), estimated household income (20%), averge housing value (20%), average home insurance premium (10%), and average renters insurance premium (10%).

Sources: The U.S. Census Bureau, www.city-data.com, and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

Photo credit for preview image: Flickr user/Nathan O’Nions