If you’re planning to settle down or visit Atlanta, it’s important to be aware that like any other major city, there are safe and not-so-safe neighborhoods. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta, also known as the Big Peach.
Is Atlanta Safe?
The safety of Atlanta’s residents is on the rise as the city’s overall crime rate continues to decrease, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). In fact, 2022 was the safest year on record for Atlanta and 2023 is projected to be even safer, as crime rates continue to drop throughout the city.
It’s worth mentioning that Atlanta has a higher crime rate compared to other major cities, and the rate of violent crime is over two times the national average. If you’re planning to relocate to the city and safety is a top priority, it’s crucial to have knowledge of the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta.
7 Safest Neighborhoods in Atlanta
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- North Buckhead
- Candler Park
- Morningside/Lenox Park
- Virginia-Highland
- Inman Park
- Midtown Atlanta
- Poncey-Highland
1. North Buckhead
North Buckhead, encompassing Argonne Forest, Brandon, Brookhaven, Brookwood Hills, and Buckhead Village, is considered to be the safest neighborhood in Atlanta. With a population of approximately 9,000 residents, this affluent residential area located just north of Atlanta’s city center boasts lush and forested streets that offer a sense of tranquility and privacy. The local community is dedicated to maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere with walkable streets. Property crimes, such as burglary and theft, remain a concern in North Buckhead. However, the 2021 Buckhead Security Plan and other initiatives have led to a significant reduction in overall crime rates, which are now about 60% lower than the Atlanta average.
2. Candler Park
Candler Park, situated slightly northeast of downtown Atlanta, is considered the second safest neighborhood in the city. The area is known for its well-maintained yards, accessible sidewalks, outstanding parks, and close-knit community. The residents, irrespective of their age, can indulge in various activities like bike rides, live music, festivals, movie nights, and golf games, which are encouraged by the Candler Park Neighborhood Organization (CPNO). To ensure the safety of its residents, CPNO has developed a Neighborhood Watch program called the Candler Park/Lake Claire (CPLC) Patrol, which deploys off-duty officers. This patrol system has significantly contributed to reducing the overall crime rate to 40% of the average crime rate of Atlanta, securing Candler Park’s position as one of the safest areas in Atlanta.
3. Morningside/Lenox Park
Morningside/Lenox Park, located northeast of downtown Atlanta, is renowned for its safety and is considered as one of the most secure neighborhoods in the city. This highly-rated district boasts of magnificent historic homes and an easily accessible layout, making it an ideal location for shopping and entertainment. Additionally, it offers a wide range of parks, walking paths, community gardens, and farmer’s markets that make it a perfect fit for anyone interested in an active and healthy lifestyle. Although petty theft can be a bit of a concern in this area, the overall violent and property crime rates are nearly half of Atlanta’s average. Therefore, Morningside/Lenox Park is undoubtedly among the top safest places for Atlanta residents.
4. Virginia-Highland
Virginia-Highland, or “VaHi” as it’s commonly called, offers a safe and vibrant community in Atlanta. During the day, the neighborhood buzzes with activity as locals frequent boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, and brunch spots. At night, the bars serve up some of the best cocktails in the city, maintaining a welcoming and relaxed vibe that appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds. Though theft and robbery are the primary crimes in the area, community organizations like the Virginia-Highland Security Patrol are making strides to reduce their occurrence. As a result, Virginia-Highland boasts an overall crime rate that is 61% lower than the Atlanta city-wide average.
5. Inman Park
Inman Park, Atlanta’s historic neighborhood, has built a name for itself as a secure and accommodating community. The area’s cobblestone walkways, lush foliage, and bike-friendly roads, along with its Victorian-style houses, give it a character that is hard to match. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the ease of access that the neighborhood provides to the Atlanta Beltline’s Eastside Trail. On the other hand, if your interests lie in shopping and entertainment, Highland Avenue offers a variety of boutiques, restaurants, yoga studios, and business centers, among other things.
Although Inman Park has higher rates of robbery and theft compared to other neighborhoods on the list, its overall crime rate is still 45% lower than the Atlanta average. The Inman Park Neighborhood Association collaborates with law enforcement to make sure that the streets are secure and adequately patrolled, aiming to discourage crime in the area.
6. Midtown Atlanta
Midtown, located in Atlanta, is a secure neighborhood that is perfect for singles and young professionals. It is one of the best neighborhoods in Atlanta, offering a diverse range of food, art, business, and entertainment options. Midtown strikes a balance between work and play, providing its residents with a fulfilling lifestyle.
This community offers not only flourishing business prospects but also convenient access to some of Atlanta’s notable landmarks, including the High Museum of Art, the Fox Theater, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Piedmont Park, and the renowned Atlanta Botanical Gardens. The neighborhood prioritizes safety by establishing a close-knit partnership with local law enforcement, resulting in a secure environment for its residents. Moreover, initiatives like Court Watch and Midtown Blue have contributed to a significant decrease in crime rates, maintaining safety levels 60% lower than the average in Atlanta.
7. Poncey-Highland
Located just two miles northeast of downtown, Poncey-Highland is widely recognized as one of the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta. The area boasts an overall crime rate that is approximately 21% lower than the Atlanta average. The neighborhood is centered around Freedom Park, which offers numerous walking trails and is home to the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library And Museum. In addition to these attractions, Poncey-Highland is known for its eclectic atmosphere, thanks in part to the Plaza Theater and the deco-style Hotel Clermont. The neighborhood also features a trendy collection of restaurants and bars, making it a popular choice for young professionals and singles alike.
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