Are you planning to relocate to or visit the city of Atlanta?
This is one of the newest cities in the United States and wasn’t founded until the 19th century. This part of Georgia was once home to the Creek and Cherokee Indians and boasts a richly diverse culture.
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But like most major cities…
Certain parts of the city are notorious for having higher-than-average crime rates. However, the overall crime rate in Atlanta has been steadily declining in recent years. And certain areas are particularly safe.
So, let’s take a closer look at the…
Safest Neighborhoods in Atlanta
Overall Safety in the Big City
Atlanta is a city with a reputation that was blighted by high crime levels for several decades. Although it was once listed among America’s most violent cities, there has been a gradual decline in violent crime over the last decade. In 2005, the city recorded its lowest homicide figures since 1963.
If you are unfamiliar with the city, you should avoid visiting certain districts late at night. Avoid leaving anything of value on show in your vehicle. And avoid parking on deserted streets. It is also best to avoid walking in unfamiliar areas and taking shortcuts through poorly lit areas. But as long as you take certain precautions, you are sure to find that the city is a safe place to explore.
East Atlanta
This charming district can be found just a few miles to the east of the downtown district. There are several quaint areas complete with wide, leafy streets and huge homes. The area has a strong community feel and is home to one of the most prestigious universities in America.
Who lives there?
This district is popular among people who work in the downtown district. It is possible to make the commute into the main business district in just a couple of minutes. Residents also have access to several pretty parks and recreational centers, which are safe places to meet and unwind.
North Buckhead
Located just to the north of the downtown and midtown districts, this is one of the city’s most prosperous areas. North Buckland features high property rates. In fact, it is home to some of the city’s wealthiest residents. Buckhead Village is a popular place for residents to unwind as it has numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs.
Population density?
Around nine thousand people call North Buckland home, and the area boasts a family-friendly atmosphere. While this is one of the largest neighborhoods in the city, it is also one of the safest. This is largely due to the community’s commitment to keeping the streets safe and picturesque.
The streets that run through the area are wide, well-lit, and lined with trees and other lush greenery. Violent crime is virtually non-existent here, and the main types of crime are theft and burglary. However, a number of initiatives have been put in place in recent years, including the Buckhead Security Plan. This has contributed to making the area around 61% safer than the average for the city.
Nice work, North Buckhead!
Candler Park
Named after the large and lovely green zone that is the focal point of the area, Candler Park is a very safe community. In fact, the overall crime rate is 40% lower than the average for the city. This is largely due to a special Neighborhood Watch program. It was established by the Candler Park Neighborhood Organization.
The best part?
All residents of the area are encouraged to contribute to keeping it safe and attractive. This can be seen by taking a stroll along the accessible sidewalks past well-kept yards. There are several pretty parks in the area, all of which are well-used by the residents and safe after dark.
Movie nights, concerts, and live music are often held in Chandler Park throughout the year. The residents tend to be affluent, and the community is tightly-knit. Residents of all ages can be seen playing golf, running, and cycling during their free time.
Morningside and Lenox Park
These twin districts can be found just to the northeast of downtown. The area was founded in 1923 and boasts a large collection of beautiful historic homes. These homes are a beacon for wealthy residents, who also enjoy the proximity to the city’s entertainment options.
This part of the city hosts a number of excellent farmer’s markets and community gardens for residents to enjoy. The large and pretty parks are frequented by residents who are interested in leading an active lifestyle. These parks are known for being very safe, and a range of events are often held in these green zones.
How do Morningside and Lenox Park’s crime rates stack up?
In terms of property and violent crime, it is around 50% lower in this district than the citywide average. The area is home to around 3,500 residents. Most of whom own their own homes. Although property crime can be a little problematic, the area also has an excellent Neighborhood Watch program.
Virginia-Highland
Commonly known as VaHi, this affluent area is also one of the safest parts of the city. The area has a large number of cool coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Therefore, shopping and meeting for brunch are popular activities among the area’s residents. As well as visitors to the city. At night, residents can also enjoy some of the best cocktails in the whole city at local bars.
Virginia-Highland has a generally laid-back vibe and is a very safe place to explore on foot. The area attracts residents of all ages, who are served by the Virginia-Highland Security Patrol. Additionally, the already low crime rate continues to steadily decline and is currently around 60% lower than the city average.
Inman Park
With a crime rate 45% lower than the citywide average, this is another one of the safest zones in Atlanta. Inman Park visitors will enjoy a welcoming atmosphere. It is also one of the oldest parts of Atlanta. The district includes charming cobblestone lanes, Victorian-style homes, and several lovely green zones.
Love the outdoors?
Then this might be the place for you. The wide and well-lit streets are safe to explore both on foot and by bicycle. The Eastside Trail portion of the Atlanta Beltline is just a short stroll away and attracts many outdoor enthusiasts. The area is also scattered with business centers, yoga studios, and excellent eateries.
Midtown
The Midtown district is set between the financial and commercial areas of downtown. The close proximity to attractions and amenities means that the residential area is becoming very popular. This is also one of the safest sections of Atlanta, and there are some excellent property options to choose from.
This area is particularly popular among young professionals and single people. This district covers 3.8 square miles and enjoys a fairly low population density. The streets tend to be wide, well-lit, and relatively free from crime.
The common thread here?
The residents of Midtown are committed to maintaining close connections with local law enforcement. Programs such as Midtown Blue and Court Watch have been established to help keep the area safe. As a result, the crime rate here is around 60% lower than the average for the city.
Plus, residents will rarely have a problem walking through Midtown late at night. And this part of the city boasts some exciting nightlife venues to explore. Among the most popular options are the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Fabulous Fox Theatre. Also, the Atlanta Ballet Company, and Woodruff Arts Center.
Poncey-Highland
And finally, on my rundown of Safest Neighborhoods in Atlanta, this affluent area can be found just two miles from the downtown district and is a popular residential district. People who work in the financial district can get to work in a mere matter of minutes. Poncey-Highland also showcases several excellent schools. Plus, parks and other amenities for families to enjoy.
This part of the city is centered around Freedom Park. And there are numerous pretty walking trails to explore. So, people who have a love for the Great Outdoors are sure to find that this is a great area to live in. Overall, the crime rate here is around 21% lower than the average for Atlanta.
Nightlife?
Residents also have a wide range of entertainment and nightlife opportunities right on their doorstep. The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum is a particularly popular attraction among families. There is always something new to discover at the Plaza Theater. Plus, there are numerous nearby chic bars and restaurants.
Wining and Dining in Atlanta
This city boasts a vibrant nightlife that new residents are sure to love. There is a thriving music scene, while theater is also popular here. Food lovers will also find an excellent range of restaurants to try.
Nightlife
The nightlife scene is richly varied, and new residents can have a lot of fun checking out bars and clubs. Most nightlife zones are safe, and there are plenty of family-friendly options.
The Downtown area offers many drinking venues of varying types, as well as places offering dancing and live music.
The city also includes a large gay scene. The Cheshire Bridge road area offers a variety of gay nightspots and businesses. The midtown area has an excellent selection of nightclubs. And the hottest venues in this district regularly host live bands and DJs until the early hours of the morning.
Music and theater
Atlanta prides itself on its cultural diversity, and the live performances found throughout the city are all exceptional. The live music scene offers everything from classical concerts to a thriving local band menagerie playing at venues across the city. The annual Atlantis Music Conference & Festival is one of the most eagerly anticipated events.
Eating out
Atlanta’s dining scene is rich and varied and as vibrant and colorful as every other aspect of its culture. The cuisine comprises an eclectic mix of traditional local food with popular international influence. Plus, the Downtown district offers a huge selection of eateries cooking up an equally extensive variety of dishes.
And traditional food?
Traditional Southern restaurants serve popular meat dishes like buttermilk fried chicken and gravy. Other southern delights include fried catfish, okra pancakes, and macaroni and cheese. The Midtown area also offers a huge number of American restaurants, as well as countless international eateries.
Where to eat?
The city’s international restaurant scene is exceptional, and almost every conceivable cuisine is covered. In the downtown district, you will find Italian, Latin, Chinese, Cuban, Spanish, and Japanese restaurants. Midtown is the best place to go to sample authentic Greek cuisine. As well as Thai, Indian, Caribbean, and Cajun fare.
Getting Around the City of Atlanta
If you are new to the city, getting around may seem a little overwhelming at first. Fortunately, Atlanta is blessed with an excellent transportation network that is known for being very safe.
Let’s take a closer look at the different ways of navigating the city.
Trains
The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority provides train services in the city with connections between the most important destinations. During the week, services begin at 05:00 and finish at 01:00, and operate every 10 minutes. On the weekends and public holidays, services start an hour later and finish at 00:20. Running every fifteen minutes.
Buses
MARTA provides bus services throughout the city, with a large number of destinations covered by its network. Services operate regularly, throughout the day, with decreased frequency and operating hours at weekends and on public holidays. Plus, extra shuttle services are offered during peak tourist seasons to serve the city’s increased population.
Taxis
Taxi services in Atlanta differ from other cities in the United States. Cabs cannot be hailed or flagged down in the street and must be booked by phone. There are many immigrant drivers, and it is best to book with a reputable company to ensure a fair rate.
Now that we’ve covered the safest neighborhoods in Atlanta…
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Ok, back to today’s safest neighborhood report…
Final Thoughts
Although Atlanta was once connected to high violent crime rates, the city has become much safer in recent years. There are several parts of the city where all types of crime are particularly low. These are great places for young couples and families to relocate to. And there are numerous housing options.
However, like any big city, there are areas that are best avoided, particularly after dark. So, while you are getting to know the city, it is best to stick to well-lit and populated areas. But with a little common sense, you are sure to find that this is a safe and remarkably interesting place to live.
Enjoy your visit, or move to Atlanta!