Atlanta is a city of contrasts, with one side buzzing with business and entertainment. However, you will find Atlantan neighborhoods that feel worlds apart when it comes to safety.
While parts of the city have long struggled with higher crime rates, some safest neighborhoods in Atlanta, such as Buckhead, Brookwood Hills, and Club, offer a secure lifestyle.
Below, we list Atlanta’s safest neighborhoods to help you find the perfect place to live in this city. Stay tuned through the end for detailed safety tips to live in Atlanta.
Is Atlanta Safe? A Quick Answer
Atlanta is less safe compared to other cities, as its overall crime rate is roughly double the national average. Reports find Atlanta safer than only 3% of the USA cities, giving a 1-in-139 chance of violent crime. In short, most of Atlanta is considered less safe.
However, a few of Atlanta's safest neighborhoods, like Brookwood Hills, Club Forest, and Vinings, all have far lower crime rates. Mostly, Downtown and some southwestern zones see the bulk of violent crime, whereas the areas listed below are family-friendly. Read this article to learn about other safest cities in Georgia.
Comparison of the Crime Statistics of Atlanta with Georgia
FBI data confirm that Atlanta’s crime rates far exceed Georgia’s or the United States' average. According to the FBI reports, Atlanta’s violent crime rate (707 per 100k) is about double Georgia’s (352 per 100k). Its property crime rate (3893 per 100k) is similarly far above the state’s numbers (1823 per 100k).
Combined, Atlanta’s annual totals (thousands of violent and property offenses) overwhelm the state’s. The table below from the NeighborhoodScout statistics summarizes these comparisons.
What are the Top 10 Safest Neighborhoods in Atlanta?
Using the statistics on different platforms, we identified Atlanta’s ten safest neighborhoods. Each of the following areas has a significantly lower crime rate than the city as a whole.
1. Buckhead
Buckhead is Atlanta’s largest northside district and one of its wealthiest. It has an A- rating, as its crime rate (15 per 1,000) is far lower than Atlanta’s average. Moreover, this place has a violent crime rate 29% less than the national average, so you can consider moving here.
With gated communities and private security patrols, Buckhead remains the safest neighborhood in Atlanta. Buckhead even features excellent schools, parks (Buckhead Heights Park), and shopping plazas like Lenox Square.
2. Brookwood Hills
Brookwood Hills is a small, gated enclave just west of Midtown. Its residents are extremely work-oriented, and Brookwood Hills has a higher income than 99.4% of the USA neighborhoods, having 0% childhood poverty.
Correspondingly, crime is almost nonexistent, as its reported violent crimes are virtually zero. Families appreciate the park-like setting (near Chess Park) and access to Midtown’s amenities without the urban crime worries.
3. Druid Hills
Druid Hills is a historic neighborhood east of Atlanta’s core, with overall crime 67% below the national average. Plus, this safest Atlanta place has violent crime 66% below, with only about a 1-in-132 chance of any crime.
Its quiet streets and large lots mean that incidents like burglary or assault are extremely rare. Families enjoy Druid Hills for its parks and strong schools, earning this community an A+ rating.
4. Club Forest
Club Forest is one of Atlanta’s safest areas, as several platforms have named this place at the top of the safety list. Almost all residents have high incomes, as just 0.6% of the United States neighborhoods are wealthier, and virtually no children live in poverty.
The streets are quiet, and local amenities (Cherokee Town Club, nearby parks) are upscale. Because many residents hire private security and maintain community watch programs, crime in Club Forest is extremely low.
5. Virginia-Highland
Virginia-Highland is a historic residential area known for its eateries and parks. Its total crime rate is 28% above the USA average, but violent crime is 53% below. In practice, this means most incidents are minor (thefts or vandalism) and major crimes are rare.
Importantly, it’s safer than 92% of Georgia cities because its active community patrols deter trouble. Families appreciate its sidewalks, local festivals, and neighborhood parks.
6. Midtown
Being Atlanta’s central business district, Midtown is relatively safer than the rest of the city. Its nighttime condition is “Safe,” with about 4.5 violent and 12.3 property crimes per 1000 (roughly on par with Buckhead).
Moreover, a dedicated “Midtown Blue” police unit maintains patrols. There is nightlife, so normal precautions (going out in groups) apply, but Midtown’s safety is generally comparable.
7. Cabbagetown
Cabbagetown is a historic in-town neighborhood just east of downtown. Moreover, its crime rate is 55% above the national average, though it’s still safer than about 77% of Georgia cities. Crime here tends to be minor (graffiti or petty theft) rather than violent.
The streets and parks (including a stretch of the BeltLine) remain lively with families. With a strong community vibe and active neighborhood watch, Cabbagetown is considered one of the safest Atlanta neighborhoods.
8. Brookhaven
Based on the recent statistics, Brookhaven's overall crime rate is 17% higher than the national average. In the latest data, this neighborhood saw 258 violent crimes (464 per 100k), which is around 1% below the national average.
Despite these figures, over 61% of residents feel Brookhaven is safe for walking at night. Additionally, its tree-lined neighborhood and numerous parks (like Murphey Candler) contribute to this sense of safety.
9. Candler Park
Candler Park is a cozy neighborhood built around its namesake golf course and green space. CrimeGrade gives it a B, making this place safer than 66% of neighborhoods. Local police note the southeast section is the quietest in the whole neighborhood.
Moreover, this safest neighborhood in Atlanta hosts lively events, and its residents maintain a vigilant watch. Most streets are quiet residential lanes with kids playing nearby.
10. Vinings
Vinings is a community just west of Atlanta, appearing frequently on some of the safest Atlanta neighborhood lists. Vinings has a D– rating, which makes this place safer than only ~9% of areas. With about 52 crimes per 1000 residents, this neighborhood remains safe.
However, parts of Vinings (near Paces Ferry and Cumberland) see occasional property crimes. Nevertheless, the Chattahoochee waterfront areas are popular and generally calm.
Where Do Celebrities and the Wealthy Live in Atlanta?
Other than the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta, the following places are generally favored due to their affinity with celebrities.
- Buckhead: This high-end district houses many celebrities. For example, actor Josh Brolin and TV host Steve Harvey own homes here. Buckhead features gated mansions where numerous sports stars and executives live in security.
- Peachtree Hills: Being a small historic place near Buckhead, this neighborhood is home to Isla Fisher and Sacha Baron Cohen. Its quiet streets offer privacy and character, while providing easy access to Piedmont Road’s shops and cafes.
- McDonough: Known for Tyler Perry’s film studios, McDonough is where Tyler Perry and country star Zac Brown live. This upscale suburban area features sprawling estates and top-notch security.
- Tuxedo Park: As an exclusive Buckhead neighborhood, this place houses Coca-Cola heir Robert W. Woodruff and golfer Bobby Jones. More recently, actors Vince Vaughn and Robert Downey Jr. have also lived here.
Top 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Atlanta
By contrast, the following five neighborhoods consistently have the highest crime rates. Most of the places are picked after analyzing the AreaVibes crime numbers.
1. Adamsville
Its violent crime rate is 536% above the national average, and overall crime 356% above. In practical terms, about 1-in-10 residents is a crime victim. Overall, the area’s poverty and gang activity fuel frequent shootings and stabbings.
2. Mechanicsville
Being a crime-heavy area near Castleberry Hill, Mechanicsville sees crime 271% above the national norm (violent crimes 426% above). It is infamous for violent robberies and gang activity.
3. Sweet Auburn
The numbers show its crime rate is 347% above the USA average, and violent crime 371% above. Landmarks like the King Center haven’t stopped robberies and assaults near its busy tourist spots.
4. Vine City
Immediately west of Downtown, Vine City’s crime rate is 138% above average, and violent crimes 261% above. Street gangs and drug trafficking have plagued this poor neighborhood.
5. Center Hill
In far northwest Atlanta, Center Hill’s crime is similarly high (223% above average, violent 211% above). Police say gang disputes often flare here.
How to Keep Your Home Safe in the Dangerous Neighborhoods in Atlanta?
No matter if you live in the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta or the dangerous ones, taking proactive security steps makes a big difference. Here are some practical strategies:
1. Vigilance in Daily Behavior
While living in the dangerous neighborhoods, lock doors and windows at all times. You have to avoid leaving valuables visible. Moreover, always vary your routine and avoid discussing travel plans openly. When walking at night, stay alert to your surroundings and trust your instincts.
2. Exterior and Access Control
To secure the home’s perimeter, we recommend you install sturdy gates and deadbolts on every entrance. On top of that, keep shrubs and fences trimmed to eliminate hiding spots.
For extra safety, use motion-activated floodlight cameras from eufy by driveways and doors. Moreover, lock all vehicles and store ladders or tools out of sight.
3. Secure Your Home with Cameras
House safety measures, including security camera installation, are needed for dangerous neighborhoods in Atlanta. For example, eufy SoloCam E30 has a 360° vision with a 2K clarity during day and night. On the other hand, eufy Cam S330 comes with BionicMind technology for smart AI detection.
These cameras capture sharp video day and night and record locally. They send smartphone alerts for motion. Moreover, these modern models use AI to ignore pets and reduce false alarms. Just a few well-placed cameras covering doors and windows greatly improve security.
4. Community and Situational Awareness
Residents need to join local watch groups to share information about recent crimes or suspicious persons. When arriving home at night, park in well-lit areas and call a family member to confirm you arrived safely.
If you notice suspicious activity, report it immediately. In general, neighborhoods where residents look out for each other tend to be safer.
5. Install Advanced Security System
For families living in higher-risk areas, the eufy ExpertSecure System provides unmatched peace of mind. It seamlessly integrates security cameras, video doorbells, and smart alarms under one platform, backed by 24/7 expert monitoring and local AI-powered video verification.
When armed remotely via the eufy app, the system instantly detects unauthorized door or window openings. If an intrusion is confirmed through live video, the monitoring team promptly contacts you and dispatches authorities.
Even during power or internet outages, the built-in 24-hour battery and dual 4G LTE backup keep your home protected without interruption. After installation of this system, your homes in Atlanta will remain safe in case of every threat.
Conclusion
Atlanta’s crime rate is high compared to national figures, but choosing a safe neighborhood can greatly reduce risk. We identified the city’s safest places (mostly north and east of downtown) versus its most dangerous districts.
Even in the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta, it’s wise to use good security practices. For this, modern tools like eufy’s wireless cameras and its ExpertSecure alarm system can greatly improve your safety.
These devices provide high-definition monitoring and 24/7 alerts, helping protect your home. Used together with the precautions above, they give families extra peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Midtown Atlanta safe at night?
Midtown is generally considered relatively safe after dark. Street Awareness rates this place “Safe,” with about 4.5 violent and 12.3 property crimes per 1000. The area’s busy parks and nightlife mean streets stay populated. Normal precautions apply, but Midtown’s night safety is similar to that of the safest Atlanta neighborhood, Buckhead’s.
Where do wealthy black families live in Atlanta?
Cascade Heights is known as a predominantly Black neighborhood. It long hosted many of Atlanta’s Black business and political leaders, making it a center of Black wealth. Many well-off African-American families live there. Other wealthy areas include upscale suburbs or parts of Buckhead, but Cascade Heights is most often cited.
Is Buckhead safer than Midtown?
Statistically, yes, Buckhead is relatively safer than the Midtown area. Recent data show its violent crime (3.9 per 1000) is marginally lower than Midtown’s (4.5). However, both areas are rated “Safe” for night walking on different lists. In practice, Buckhead’s quieter residential blocks can feel more secure, but Midtown is also relatively safe with normal urban precautions.
