Have you ever wondered where the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta are? Located in the eastern United States of Georgia, Atlanta is a vibrant metropolis, renowned for its inclusive atmosphere, dynamic culture, numerous opportunities, and distinguished universities. It has long been a popular place for studying, visiting, and settling. Whatever your intention for the city, understanding the city’s safety landscape is key to choosing safe places to stay in Atlanta and making the most of your time. You can use this blog to help you choose a neighbourhood where you can live comfortably and securely.
Is Atlanta Safe?
Atlanta is always reported as one of the most unsafe cities in the United States, with a low overall safety score and a higher crime rate than the national average. For locals, students, and visitors, getting to know where the safest neighborhoods are and how to stay safe in Atlanta is always the priority.
Atlanta Crime Rate
According to the Atlanta Police Foundation, the latest crime statistics in Atlanta have dropped significantly:
- Property crime is down by 13%
- Overall crime across Atlanta is down 10%
- Emergency 911 (E911) answer times have improved by nearly 50%
Violent crime has also seen a major decrease when compared to the same time last year:
- Homicide rates have dropped by 30%
- Shootings are down by 21%
- Motor vehicle thefts have decreased by an impressive 40%
However, Atlanta is still considered unsafe, with an overall safety score of just 3.0 out of 100 according to NeighborhoodScout. The violent crime rate is 7.18 per 100 (national level is about 4), and the property crime rate is 40.42 per 100 (national level is about 19). Therefore, if you’re going to Atlanta, it is important to notice on where to stay and how to stay safe.
Should You Feel Safe in Atlanta?
As mentioned before, the latest crime statistics show encouraging progress in public safety efforts. According to a survey on safety by Niche.com, about 75% of residents feel “very safe” or “somewhat safe” living in Atlanta. Even though Atlanta has a high crime rate overall, it still has plenty of safe neighborhoods where people feel safe.
Picking the safest area to stay in Atlanta can have a big impact on your life and growth in the city, allowing you to enjoy the city’s resources without stress. So, let’s take a look at some of the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta next.
Top 5 Safest Neighborhoods in Atlanta
Before going to more details, let’s quickly check the overall information and highlights for the top 5 safest neighborhoods in Atlanta:
| Community | Crime Rate (per 1,000 people) | Home Price (Median) | Home Rent (Median) | Perfect For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Buckhead | Violence crime rate is lower than the national average | $670,006 | $2,154 | High-income families, professionals; seeking luxury, safety, and proximity to business centers. |
| Cabbagetown | Crime rate is lower than 78% of communities in Atlanta | $539,241 | $1,770 | Young professionals, artists, students; seeking historical charm, walkability, and a vibrant community. |
| Virginia-Highland | Crime rate is 37% lower than the Atlanta average | $815,159 | $1,896 | Families, young couples; seeking historic homes, good schools, and high walkability. |
| Candler Park | Crime rate is lower than the national average | $692,103 | $1,628 | Families, outdoor enthusiasts; seeking a tight-knit community, ample green spaces, and excellent schools. |
| Ben Hill Forest | Crime rate is higher than the Atlanta average but home prices are affordable | $209,500 | $1,540 | First-time homebuyers, budget-conscious families; seeking lower home prices and more living space. |
#1 North Buckhead
- Crime Rate: Lower than the national average
- Home Price: $670,006
- Home Rent: $2,154
- Perfect For: High-income families, professionals; Seeking a luxurious, safe and business-centered life.
North Buckhead is the safest place to live in Atlanta. It boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Atlanta, with 1,773 crimes per 100,000 residents, significantly below the national average. The violent crime rate stands at 295 per 100,000 residents, while property crime is recorded at 1,478 per 100,000 residents. Impressively, both these figures are 70% lower than the national average, underscoring Buckhead’s reputation as a safe and secure community. Situated to the north of Downtown Atlanta and home to around 9,000 residents, North Buckhead includes Argonne Forest, Brandon, Brookhaven, Brookwood Hills, and Buckhead Village. It features verdant, tree-lined streets that offer a sense of tranquillity and seclusion.
North Buckhead is perfect for students at Georgia State University Buckhead Center, which can be reached in 30 minutes by bus, and Emory University, which is accessible by bike in 35 minutes.
#2 Cabbagetown
- Crime Rate: Lower than 78% Atlanta neighborhoods
- Home Price: $539,241
- Home Rent: $1,770
- Perfect For: Young professionals, artists, students; Seek historical charm, pedestrian-friendly and vibrant community life.
Cabbagetown is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta. Cabbagetown ranks in the 14th percentile for safety, meaning 86% of neighborhoods are safer. The area records a violent crime rate of 5.131 per 1,000 residents each year. Residents generally regard the southwest part of Cabbagetown as the safest concerning violent crime. The likelihood of experiencing such crime ranges from 1 in 145 in the western neighborhoods to 1 in 310 in the southwest sector. With its charming Victorian-era houses, Cabbagetown feels like a step back in time, lending an almost fairytale ambience to the community. As you wander through its streets, the nostalgic Victorian-style architecture creates a sense of travelling back to another era.
Nearby, Georgia State University and Georgia State University College of Law are both conveniently accessible within a 30-minute bus ride.
#3 Virginia-Highland
- Crime Rate: 37% lower than Atlanta’s crime rate
- Home Price: $815,159
- Home Rent: $1,896
- Perfect For: Families, young couples; Seek historic residences, excellent schools, and communities with a high walkability index.
Virginia-Highland is considered one of the safest places to live in Atlanta. It is in the 42nd percentile for safety, indicating that it is safer than 42% of other areas. The rate of violent crime here is relatively low, with 3.232 incidents per 1,000 residents each year. For many, the northeastern part of the neighbourhood is perceived as the safest, with a minimal chance of encountering violence, approximated at 1 in 662. This vibrant community flourishes with its residents frequently visit local shops, dining spots, and cafes. As evening approaches, the neighborhood’s bars become lively venues offering some of the finest cocktails, cultivating a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Additionally, students from the Georgia Institute of Technology and Georgia State University find Virginia-Highland appealing due to its convenient location: it is just a 30-minute bus ride to both campuses.
#4 Candler Park
- Crime Rate: Lower than the national average
- Home Price: $692,103
- Home Rent: $1,628
- Perfect For: Families, outdoor enthusiasts; Seek a close sense of community, abundant green Spaces and excellent schools.
Candler Park is among the safe neighborhoods in Atlanta, Georgia. It boasts a commendable safety rating in the 65th percentile, signifying that it is safer than 35% of other neighbourhoods. The area records a property crime rate of 18.64 incidents per 1,000 residents each year. Residents particularly perceive the west side as the most secure. In the northwest regions, the probability of falling victim to property crime is remarkably low at 1 in 105. Candler Park is celebrated for its secure residential areas, pristine sidewalks, breathtaking parks, and cohesive community spirit. Local authorities have introduced the Candler Park/Lake Claire Patrol, a visionary community watch programme. The Patrol has reduced the crime rate to 40% of the average rate.
The proximity to prominent universities such as Agnes Scott College and the Devry University Decatur Campus makes Candler Park a favourable choice for students, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted haven in the city.
#5 Ben Hill Forest
- Crime Rate: Higher than Atlanta’s crime rate, but housing is affordable
- Home Price:$209,500
- Home Rent: $1,540
- Perfect For: First-time home buyers and families with limited budgets; Seeking relatively lower housing prices and larger living space.
Listed among the safest places to stay in Atlanta, Ben Hill Forest boasts a violent crime rate of just 5.575 per 1,000 residents annually. Residents in the south part of this community feel particularly secure, with the likelihood of experiencing violent crime being as low as 1 in 244. An impressive 61% of residents have shared their sense of safety, affirming that crime is practically non-existent in their area. Known for its historical importance and rich cultural diversity, Ben Hill Forest features tree-lined streets and welcoming residents, perfectly blending tradition with modern living.
Atlanta Safe Moving Guide
Having picked your safest place to stay in Atlanta? Before moving, it is critical to do more research and thinking, including but not limited to:
1. Assess the true safety level of the community: It is always better to check the latest crime map of the Atlanta Police Department to get an updated, reliable, and detailed picture. Also, remember to do on-site investigations, especially at night.
2. Balance between safety and affordability: If you have enough budget, staying in a modern apartment in the safe areas in the city centre is always the first choice. Of course, if you’re seeking affordability, opting for safer but more suburban areas is recommended.
3. Neighborhood safety factors – more than crime rate: Apart from date on crime rate, the influence of non-data factors such as community activity, lighting, sidewalks, and community patrols on a sense of security.
Conclusion
There are several safe neighborhoods in Atlanta, GA, with a strong community spirit. North Buckhead‘s harmonious blend of affluence and tranquillity epitomises peaceful student living. Steeped in history and artistic vibrancy, Cabbagetown nurtures an intimate community atmosphere. Virginia-Highland, famous for its charming streets and lively local businesses, offers families and young professionals a secure haven. Candler Park provides a wholesome environment for all residents with its lush green spaces and engaging community events. Lastly, Ben Hill Forest delivers tranquillity and seclusion, making it an ideal refuge for those seeking comfort and peace. Each of these neighborhoods uniquely enriches international students’ lives with the utmost safety in Atlanta.
FAQ
What is the safest part of Atlanta, GA?
Ansley Park is renowned for its tree-lined streets, charming parks, and elegant homes. Its well-established community fosters a sense of security and belonging among residents. The proximity to vital amenities, cultural centres, and excellent schools adds to Ansley Park’s appeal as a safe and inviting place to live.
What city in Atlanta has the lowest crime rate?
The city of Brookhaven frequently distinguishes itself by its impressively low crime rate. Brookhaven is in the northeastern Atlanta suburbs, celebrated with its community-focused ethos, meticulously kept parks, and vital public services. The proactive community involvement has cultivated a tranquil setting where residents can flourish without undue worries about their safety.
What is the best place to live in Atlanta, Georgia?
Virginia-Highland is an iconic neighbourhood that blends historic elegance with modern amenities. It offers a unique lifestyle that attracts a diverse community. With tree-lined streets, eclectic boutiques, and a vibrant dining scene, Virginia-Highland delivers a rare sense of comfort and belonging.
Is Midtown or Buckhead safer?
Buckhead is generally considered safer than Midtown, with lower crime rates in certain areas. However, both neighborhoods have their ups and downs in terms of safety. Midtown has more nightlife and density, which can lead to higher crime in some parts, while Buckhead is quieter and more residential.
What is the no go area in Atlanta?
In Atlanta, certain areas like parts of Southwest Atlanta, west of downtown, and some neighborhoods in Bankhead are often considered higher-risk due to crime. These “no-go” zones aren’t strictly off-limits but require extra caution, especially at night. Crime can vary block by block, so awareness is key.
What is the nicest part of Atlanta to live in?
Some of the nicest areas to live in Atlanta include Virginia Highland, Inman Park, and Ansley Park, known for their charming neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, and proximity to parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Buckhead is also a popular choice for upscale living and excellent schools.
