The safest places in the U.S. during a nuclear war are rural areas far from urban centers, military bases, and nuclear power plants. These include regions in Maine, Central Idaho, Eastern Montana, and the Dakotas. The most unsafe places are major cities, ports, and military installations, especially along the East Coast and near California.
Scroll down for a full target zone map, survival checklist, and list of safe zones by state.
Summary Table: Risk Zones at a Glance
| Zone Type | Examples | Risk Level |
| Major Cities | NYC, LA, DC, Houston | 🔴 Extreme |
| Military Targets | NORAD, missile silos, naval bases | 🔴 Extreme |
| Rural Areas (North) | North Dakota, Maine, Montana | 🟢 Low |
| Seismic/Urban Mix | Oregon, Northern CA | 🟡 Medium |
| Nuclear Plants Nearby | South Carolina, Illinois | 🔴 High |
Nuclear Target Map
Related Article: US Nuclear Target Map: Most Safe and Unsafe Areas
Where Is It Safest to Live in a Nuclear War?
The safest places are typically rural, inland, and distant from both military targets and major urban areas. Top options include Maine, Central Idaho, Eastern Montana, and the Dakotas. These locations lack nuclear plants, military installations, and strategic infrastructure, making them less likely targets. Their wind patterns also reduce fallout exposure compared to central or coastal areas.
Map of U.S. Nuclear Targets (With Safe Zones Highlighted)
Red zones represent likely targets, including cities, military bases, and industrial hubs. Blue zones reflect remote, low-population areas considered relatively safer. While no place is truly safe, these zones offer the best chance of survival.
Which Cities Are the Most Likely Targets?
Major U.S. cities are likely targets due to their population density and strategic infrastructure. These include:
- – New York, NY
– Washington D.C.
– Los Angeles, CA
– Chicago, IL
– Houston, TX
– Miami, FL
– San Francisco, CA
– Phoenix, AZ
– Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
– Jacksonville, FL
What About Fallout Zones?
Fallout risk depends on wind patterns, bomb size, and terrain. States with elevated risk due to fallout include: Colorado, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. These areas may be distant from direct blasts but are positioned to receive drift from westward detonations.
Essential Survival Items
- – Gas Masks (with filters)
- – Potassium Iodide Tablets
- – Portable Geiger Counter
- – EMP Protection Bags
- – Battery-powered Radios
Tips for Choosing a Safer Relocation Area
- – Choose rural areas far from urban centers
- – Avoid coasts and military-heavy states
- – Check for nuclear plant proximity
- – Consider earthquake risk
- – Assess prevailing wind patterns
How Many Nukes Are Aimed at the U.S.?
An estimated 13,000 nuclear warheads exist globally, with over 90% held by Russia and the United States. Estimated arsenals:
- – Russia: 6,490
- – United States: 5,550
- – China: 350
- – France: 290
- – UK: 225
- – Pakistan: 165
- – India: 156
- – Israel: 90
- – North Korea: 50
Final Thoughts
Nuclear war, while unlikely, remains one of the most devastating threats. While no place is perfectly safe, you can boost your odds with preparation. Choose strategic locations, store emergency supplies, and stay informed. Planning ahead gives you the best chance at survival.
Jim James Jr. is the founder of SurvivalFreedom.com and the author of over 1,500 in-depth guides on survival, preparedness, and practical problem-solving. With a background in history, research, and real-world testing, Jim breaks down complex topics into clear, actionable advice. He is a published author and expert on the outdoors and survivalism.
From food storage to firearm maintenance to fixing things around the house, Jim helps readers stay self-reliant with solutions that actually work—no fluff, just facts.