10 Safest Neighborhoods in Philadelphia (2024)
- Pennypack Park
- Bustleton
- Somerton
- Chestnut Hill
- Fox Chase
- Wharton-Hawthorne-Bella Vista
- Manayunk
- University City
- Fairmount-Spring Garden
- Whitman
1. Pennypack Park
The safest neighborhood in Philadelphia is Pennypack Park. The neighborhood is characterized by its proximity to its namesake park and the recreational opportunities it offers residents. The area has a mix of residential homes, schools, and local businesses, creating a safe and vibrant community. The crime rate in Pennypack Park is 71% below that of the city average, making it the safest place to live in Philadelphia.
Residents of the Pennypack Park neighborhood enjoy the park's natural beauty, which features hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views along Pennypack Creek. With a balance of urban conveniences and the tranquility of a park setting, the Pennypack Park neighborhood offers a unique and desirable living experience in the City of Brotherly Love.
2. Bustleton
Bustleton is another one of the safest neighborhoods in Philly. Aptly named for its bustling blend of urban amenities, this neighborhood is ideal for those who want to be close – but not too close – to the city center. In addition to a diverse mix of housing options, business opportunities, and local cuisine, Bustleton also has a choice assortment of greenspaces, walking trails, and cycling paths.
Residents can also enjoy easy access to the city center, making this location perfect for commuters. With a reputation for being one of the best areas in all of Philly, it's no wonder that crime in this area sits roughly 67% below the Philadelphia average.
3. Somerton
With a rock-solid overall crime rate 64% below the city average in 2023, Somerton is the third-safest neighborhood in Philadelphia. In addition, residences in Somerton are more affordable than in other areas of the city, making it a great area for first-time home buyers.
Despite the lower cost of living, this neighborhood is home to many job opportunities and provides commuters with easy access to inner Philadelphia, New York City, Lakewood, and Baltimore. Residents can also enjoy a wide array of top-tier amenities, including museums, parks, zoos, universities, and more. Overall, Somerton is a safe place for business professionals interested in easy transit.
4. Chestnut Hill
Chestnut Hill has long been known as one of Philadelphia's safest neighborhoods. An affluent community on the northeast side of Philly, Chestnut Hill is known for its upscale residences, complete with high-end finishes and a slightly higher cost of living. Violent crime in Chestnut Hills is extremely low for the area, with property crime making up a majority of the neighborhood's misconduct. Overall, the total crime rate in this neighborhood falls roughly 61% below Philadelphia's average, making Chestnut Hills a perfect place for safe city living.
5. Fox Chase
Boasting a crime rate 59% lower than the city average, Fox Chase is also one of the safest places to live in Philly. Located in the northeastern sector of Philadelphia, this area is known for its many acres of parks and green spaces. Whether it be meadows, wetlands, woods, or fields, Fox Chase has it all, keeping the local community active and outdoors. As a result, it is the best neighborhood in the city for those interested in living in a safe area with unparalleled access to walking, hiking, biking, horseback riding, or anyone with a general love for nature.
6. Wharton-Hawthorne-Bella Vista
Another one of the safest places to live in Philadelphia is the Wharton-Hawthorne-Bella Vista area. While the area is known for having great views, and authentic local cuisine, it's also an extremely safe neighborhood. This part of town has some of the best bakeries, restaurants, and local eateries in all of Philly. In addition to grabbing a traditional cheesesteak at Genos and Pat's King of Steaks, be sure to check out the historic Italian Market, America's oldest and most continuously operated outdoor food market. With a safety rating 41% lower than Philadelphia's average, Bella Vista is the best spot to grab a bite to eat.
7. Manayunk
Filled with Victorian-style homes, a variety of local restaurants and bars, and a fun-filled community, Manayunk is a safe place for singles and young professionals. This area possesses a lively, upbeat atmosphere and has recently become one of Philly's best neighborhoods for those who need a mix of both work and play. From food trucks and festivals to live music and local bookstores, there's something for everyone at Manayunk. And, with a safety rating 36% below the Philadelphia average, this city is also one of the safest places to grab a drink with a friend or two.
8. University City
Located west of Center City, University City is another one of the safest neighborhoods in Philly. As its name suggests, this area is home to a number of universities, including the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. University City is home to a mix of residents, including students, professors, and young professionals, giving it a hip and energetic atmosphere. It has had a relatively low crime rate, which is 29% lower than the city average. University City is considered a safe area to live and work in.
9. Fairmount-Spring Garden
One of the safest areas for artists and history buffs, Fairmount is home to some of Philadelphia's most beloved art museums and cultural institutions. Often referred to as the "Art Museum area" for its collection of European paintings, historical sites, and stunning Victorian Architecture, this area attracts a more intellectual crowd. This helps the area maintain a safety rating 22% lower than the city's average, keeping it one of Philly's safest neighborhoods.
10. Whitman
With an overall crime rate 19% below the Philadelphia average, Whitman is a pinnacle for safety amongst families and retirees. Located in south Philadelphia, this neighborhood is known for its low-key vibe and affordable home prices. It also has an excellent selection of both local school systems and greenspaces, making it a premier option for those interested in having children. Other family-friendly outings include the Whitman Public Library, watching a Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park, or enjoying the playground at Mifflin Square Park. Whatever the fun, Whitman has it covered.
Safest Neighborhoods in Philly Bottom Line
Most of the safest neighborhoods in Philly are more suburban and located in less busy parts of town. This is due to rising crime rates in the Center City area of Philadelphia between 2020 and 2023. However, if you want to live in the heart of the city, the Society Hill and Rittenhouse Square neighborhoods are relatively safe.