The Safest Neighborhoods In Columbus: 2022's Ultimate List

Cyril Balahadia
by Cyril Balahadia

The Arch City, Columbus, is the capital city of Ohio, and it’s one of the most unique places to live in the state. Columbus is safer than other notable cities in Ohio such as Cleveland, but some areas are safer than others. With that said, what are the safest neighborhoods in Columbus?

The safest neighborhoods in Columbus include Harrison West, Victorian Village, Far North, and Italian Village. Areas like Upper Arlington, Downtown, and the Brewery District are safer than the majority of Columbus, Ohio. Northwest Columbus, Worthington, and Clintonville are among the safest places to live in Columbus.

There is no such thing as a perfect neighborhood, but the 11 safest neighborhoods in Columbus come pretty close. Crime statistics and population data ultimately determine how safe a neighborhood is. Follow along as we explore the safest neighborhoods in Columbus.

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1. Northwest Columbus

Population: 45,000

Median Home Price: $176,633

Safety: Safer than 60% of Ohio

Northwest Columbus is a middle-class neighborhood that is safer than 60% of the cities in Ohio. Crime has seen a yearly 10% decrease over the last several years, and it looks like the drop will continue. Housing costs are low in Northwest Columbus, and it is primarily made up of apartments and condos.

The police are known to be reliable and responsive in Northwest Columbus which helps account for the low crime rate. Northwest Columbus spans 20 square miles, and there are plenty of entertainment and employment opportunities. There is a low poverty and unemployment rate in Northwest Columbus, and that helps keep the crime down.

2. Italian Village

Population: 5,003

Median Home Price: $334,391

Safety: Safer than 62% of Ohio

Overall crime is 38% below the national average in Italian Village, and that makes it one of the safest neighborhoods in Columbus. Aside from being one of the safest neighborhoods in Columbus, there are more reasons to check out this neighborhood.

Italian Village is historically significant and you can feel it when you see the old architecture and streets. The neighborhood is an inviting and artistic community with plenty of places to eat and entertainment opportunities.

From cafes to bakeries, pizzerias, and casual to fine dining, this neighborhood is truly a food haven! Violent crime is 46% below the national average and property crime is 36% below the national average in Italian Village.

3. Upper Arlington

Population: 36,800

Median Home Price: $467,090

Safety: Safer than 50% of Ohio

Another historic neighborhood, Upper Arlington was founded in 1913 by real estate developers named Ben and King Thompson. What used to be called “Country Club District”, Upper Arlington is now a beautiful suburb enjoyed by many.

It’s a quaint town, favored by a family looking to raise their kids in a safe environment. It is also conveniently located close to grocery stores, restaurants, bars, gyms, and different outdoor public places. Everything you will possibly need is within proximity.

4. Worthington

Population: 14,786

Median Home Price: $251,400

Safety: Safer than 57% of Ohio

Worthington is another safe neighborhood in Columbus where crime is below both the city and national average. The total crime in this neighborhood is 57% lower than the rest of Ohio. There are only 14 crimes per 1,000 residents in Worthington.

With a lot of retirees living here, this neighborhood is quiet and peaceful. There is also a high presence of police in this neighborhood, which adds a blanket of security across the area.

5. Downtown

Population: 9,270

Median Home Price: $285,700

Safety: Safer than 60% of Ohio

If you think that the safest neighborhoods in Columbus are only found in the middle-class area s, you are wrong! With a total crime that is 34% lower than Ohio, the Downtown area of the city also a safe place to be.

Located right in the center of the hustle and bustle of the city, the Downtown is a safe place for those who want to be close to where everything happens. With the Columbus Police Chief of Staff headquarters located in this area, you don’t have to worry about your safety when you’re here.

Unlike the common stereotype being thrown at city downtowns, this area is a walkable place even at the night. So, if you’re someone who likes enjoying the chaotic good vibe of a city, this will be a perfect place for you.

6. Brewery District

Population: 5,866

Median Home Price: $299,900

Safety: Safer than 87% of Ohio

Last but not least is the Brewery District. Also known as the Old German Brewing District, this neighborhood is in the south part of the city’s business district. The Brewery District is safer than 87% of Ohio cities and the crime rate is 38% lower than the US average.

As you would expect from the name, Brewery District is the best place to go if you like craft beer bars and music. This chic and lively neighborhood is popular among tourists and locals alike.

7. Far North

Population: 32,523

Median Home Price: $186,456

Safety: Safer than 89% of Ohio

With a crime rate that is 16% lower than the national average, Far North always makes its presence on the lists of the safest and best places to live in Columbus. This neighborhood offers a dense suburban feel to everyone who comes here.

Far North boasts plenty of parks and restaurants for everyone to enjoy. There are also highly rated public schools, pet walking areas, picnic areas, and other common areas. You’ll also enjoy skiing and kayaking. There are abundant lakes and green areas.

8. Bexley

Population: 13,786

Median Home Price: $337,683

Safety: Safer than 95% of Ohio

Bexley is a first-ring suburb of Columbus, which is most famous for its historic and close-knit neighborhoods. Today, this area boasts a vintage, classy vibe that draws many younger professionals to live here.

Compared to most neighborhoods in Columbus, Bexley is 95% safer. This is a well-connected area with great access to medical facilities.

Bexley also offers a walkable main street environment. And due to its proximity to some prestigious private schools, Bexley was named as the home of Capital University.

9. Clintonville

Population: 30,675

Median Home Price: $209,483

Safety: Safer than 95% of Ohio

Another prime neighborhood in Columbus is Clintonville. With its extremely low crime rate, it’s considered to be safer than 95% of the cities in Ohio.

On top of that statistics, this neighborhood also has a strong community spirit, which makes it even a perfect option for those who are looking to move. You can expect the residents of Clintonville to be welcoming and friendly. Walk along the streets of this neighborhood and receive greetings and smiles.

Living in Clintonville, you’ll enjoy the bars, coffee shops, restaurants, and parks. Many young professionals choose to live in this neighborhood. With many amenities located within this area, Clintonville isn’t only safe but also livable.

10. Victorian Village

Population: 9,866

Median Home Price: $380,866

Safety: Safer than 97% of Ohio

Living up to its name, Victorian Village is a neighborhood composed of many Victorian architectures. Aside from its beauty, it is also conveniently located to common areas of interest. The downtown area, Ohio State University, and local bike trail are all within walking distance.

Although crime activities used to be a big problem in Victorian Village a few decades ago, it is now 74% safer than the rest of the city. The streets are well-lit, which gives you peace of mind when talking at night.

11. Harrison West

Population: 1,347

Median Home Price: $335,383

Safety: Safer than 97% of Ohio

Harrison West is a historic, urban area located in the northwest downtown of the city. It is situated only a few blocks along the Olentangy River and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

This neighborhood offers a youthful vibe and is home to many young professionals and small families. Harrison West’s crime rates have been steadily going down by 12% every year.

Aside from its overall unique appeal, people who live here tend to look out for each other, which even adds to the area’s sense of collective security. On top of that, the police station is only a few minutes away.

Columbus Crime

Crime is generally a big problem in Ohio, apart from Columbus, which doesn’t rank on the FBI’s list of 50 most dangerous cities in the US.

Your chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime is one in 203. Violent crimes include rape, murder, assault, and robbery. On the other hand, your chance of becoming a victim of property crime is one in 29. Property crime includes vehicle theft, theft, and burglary.

Compared to other communities in the US of the same size, the crime rate in Columbus is significantly lower. This data shows the analysis performed by the FBI.

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus is home to many safe neighborhoods, such as Bexley and Victorian Village. However, Columbus has an element of danger, and property crime affects 1 in 31 residents. There are over 150 crimes per square mile in Columbus, and most of them occur in only a handful of neighborhoods.

The most dangerous neighborhoods in Columbus include Milo Grogan and South Linden. Violent crime is 112% more common in neighborhoods like Franklinton than the national average. Take a look at the Columbus neighborhoods below that you should avoid:

Rank

Neighborhood

Population

Violent Crimes / 100K

Crime Rate Percentage

1

Franklinton

7,306

792

60%

2

Olentangy River Road

3,967

784

58%

3

Linden

8,700

772

56%

4

Milo Grogan

1,513

725

47%

5

Hilltop

65,257

686

39%

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Summing It Up

The safest neighborhoods in Ohio include Victorian Village, Italian Village, Harrison West, and Clintonville. Bexley, Far North, Downtown, and the Brewery District are all safer than the average neighborhood in Columbus. Upper Arlington and Northwest Columbus round out the safest neighborhoods in Columbus, Ohio.

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Cyril Balahadia
Cyril Balahadia

Coming from a family of woodcarvers, Cyril has always been fascinated with wooden interiors and home decorating. While she followed the path of writing as her career, her interests in home improvements still remain.

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