What Are the Safest Dallas Neighborhoods for Renters in 2025? (Crime & Rent Data)

Dallas is home to several safe, renter-friendly neighborhoods in 2025, including Uptown, Preston Hollow, and Oak Lawn. For renters concerned about crime and the cost of living, this guide offers insights into which parts of the city offer both security and affordability.

From walkable districts with a strong police presence to quiet residential zones with active neighborhood groups, these are the safest places to live in Dallas this year. Below, you'll find a data-driven breakdown of each neighborhood, including up-to-date rent prices, local crime stats, and what you can expect as a resident.

Is Dallas Safe for Renters?

Dallas can be relatively safe for renters in 2025, but it depends on which neighborhood you choose to live in. The city’s violent crime dropped 13.5% in early 2025, including a 33.7% decline in homicides and a 12.2% decrease in aggravated assaults, according to Dallas Police Department reports from late May  2025.

Property crime has also declined: Crimes against property (including burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft) were down an average of 13.2 % in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

Despite the improvements, CrimeGrade data still shows that Dallas still ranks around a D+ for violent crime and a D for property crime, with combined rates near 4.04 violent crimes per 1,000 residents and 28.9 property crimes per 1,000 residents.

Citywide statistics can mask local differences, so neighborhood‑level data is essential when renters are choosing where to live.

Dallas Crime Trends in 2025

The following trends suggest Dallas is on a steady safety improvement path thanks to increased patrols, community policing, and tech integrations in enforcement.

• Violent crimes are down roughly 14 %, led by a sharp drop in homicides and aggravated assaults.
• Property crimes fell around 13 % in Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024, with motor vehicle theft and burglary declines across the board.
• Crime-grade data estimates a crime cost of ~$253 per person and ~$724 per household in 2025.

Crime Index: A composite score (0-100) indicating how a city’s total crime compares to the national average. Lower scores are safer.

Violent vs. Property Crime Breakdown

Source: CrimeGrade.org, compiled 2024 to 2025 data for Dallas, Texas, based on FBI reporting estimates and geospatial interpolation of local incidents.

Motor vehicle theft remains one of the most significant property crime threats in Dallas, accounting for roughly 4.64 incidents per 1,000 people annually.

How Safer Neighborhoods Compare to Citywide Averages

Dallas renters, many of whom prioritize safety, can find a real sense of security in neighborhoods where local crime rates fall well below the city average of 24.37 combined incidents per 1,000 residents, based on CrimeGrade’s 2025 data.

Uptown reports a combined violent and property crime rate of nearly 18.3 per 1,000, making it one of the safest centrally located areas in the city. Its walkable layout, visible patrol presence, and active business community all contribute to a safer everyday experience. Residents often highlight the accessibility of the Katy Trail and local restaurants that feel secure even at night.

Lake Highlands also stands out, with estimated crime rates far below citywide norms. Its well-maintained parks, low-density zoning, and strong neighborhood associations create a suburban feel within city limits. It's especially popular with families and long-term renters seeking stability and quiet.

Source: CrimeGrade.org, Dallas, TX, 2025 interpolated data; crime rates calculated as combined violent and property crime per 1,000 residents.

How We Identified Dallas’ Safest Neighborhoods

To determine the safest neighborhoods in Dallas for renters in 2025, we analyzed current crime data alongside local rent prices and population estimates. Our approach focused on accuracy, relevance, and the needs of today’s renters.

Each neighborhood’s violent and property crime rates were benchmarked against both Dallas citywide averages and national norms. We prioritized low crime per capita rather than raw totals to reflect day-to-day safety. From there, we layered in July 2025 rent data to identify neighborhoods that offer both security and price accessibility.

Finally, we factored in walkability, school ratings, and access to public amenities, essential quality-of-life indicators that renters consistently value. Whether you’re moving solo or with a family, our list highlights the safest places to live in Dallas—backed by data, not guesswork.

Data Sources and Time Frames

Our rankings are built from a multisource dataset covering the most recent crime and rent trends in Dallas:

• Dallas Police Department crime analytics dashboard (January 2024 to June 2025).
• FBI National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) crime database (finalized 2023 data).
• Apartment List rent estimates (Q2 2025, using July 2025 pricing and >8,000 active listings).
• U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (2024 population estimates).
• Each data point was selected for its recency, transparency, and consistency.
• Neighborhood-level crime rates were sourced from CrimeGrade.org’s 2025 composite modeling, which uses both public records and population-adjusted interpolation.

Ranking Factors (Crime Rate, Rent, Amenities, Commute)

Each neighborhood was evaluated using the following weighted criteria to identify the safest areas for renters in Dallas:

Factor Weights

• Crime rate (50%): Based on combined violent and property crime per 1,000 residents; lower rates received higher scores.
• Rent affordability (20%): Average one-bedroom rent compared to the city average ($1,540 in July 2025); neighborhoods below this threshold scored better.
• Amenities (20%): Composite score based on:
  • Parks per square mile (scored zero to 10).
  • Walk score (scored zero to 100).
  • Grocery stores within one mile (scored zero to 5).
• Commute (10%): Average peak-hour drive time to Downtown Dallas; shorter commutes earned higher scores.

Each of the eight neighborhoods listed below ranked among the top performers across these combined factors, standing out for their mix of safety, accessibility, and renter-friendly features compared to the broader Dallas metro area.

Crime-to-Rent Ratio Explained

Crime-to-rent ratio: the number of reported crimes per $1,000 of average annual rent. A lower ratio means more safety for every dollar spent on housing.

For example, if a Dallas neighborhood reports 180 crimes per year and the average rent is $1,500 per month ($18,000 per year), the crime-to-rent ratio would be 10.0 crimes per $1,000 of rent.

This metric is especially useful for cost-conscious renters. Rather than focusing solely on low rent or low crime, the ratio helps balance both, revealing which Dallas neighborhoods offer the best overall value in terms of affordability and peace of mind.

8 Safest Dallas Neighborhoods for Renters

Looking for a secure place to call home in Dallas? These eight neighborhoods offer the best mix of low crime rates, renter-friendly pricing, and community-driven lifestyles, backed by comprehensive 2025 data on violent and property crime, rent prices, and safety initiatives.

Uptown

Walkable, well‑patrolled urban core

• Violent crime: 2.91 per 1,000
• Property crime: 18.6 per 1,000
• Average one‑bedroom rent: $2,075
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 1.34

Located just north of Downtown Dallas, Uptown is a high-density district known for its walkability, skyline views, and vibrant commercial core. The area offers an upscale urban lifestyle with quick access to the Katy Trail, popular dining corridors like McKinney Avenue, and a strong presence of retail and midrise apartments. Public spaces are clean and well-lit, and many buildings offer controlled access, concierge desks, or private security contracts to enhance safety around residential zones.

With violent crime at just 2.91 per 1,000 residents and property crime at 18.6 per 1,000, Uptown performs better than most central Dallas neighborhoods. The neighborhood’s Business Improvement District funds additional safety and sanitation services, while community walk groups and bike patrols add a visible layer of support. Uptown is less than 10 minutes from Downtown by car and 20 minutes via Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), making it ideal for professionals who want a lively but secure place to live.

Preston Hollow

Leafy, safe, and established

• Violent crime: 2.5 per 1,000
• Property crime: 4.7 per 1,000
• Average one‑bedroom rent: $1,090
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 0.42
• Calculated from interpolated data and verified rent

Known for its tree-lined streets, estate homes, and longtime Dallas families, Preston Hollow blends affluence with stability. It’s a peaceful neighborhood with gated properties, respected private schools, and a low-density layout that buffers residents from typical city congestion. The area’s strong HOA presence, private security details, and consistent infrastructure investment contribute to its long-standing reputation for safety.

Crime in Preston Hollow remains remarkably low, with violent incidents around 2.5 per 1,000 and property crime near 4.7 per 1,000, which are both well below Dallas averages (violent, property). Residents enjoy a quiet lifestyle with easy access to NorthPark Center, Hillcrest Avenue retail, and major arterials like US‑75. Commutes to Downtown typically take 15 to 20 minutes by car, making it a practical choice for those seeking calm without sacrificing city access.

Lake Highlands

Family-friendly, calm, and connected

• Violent crime: 2.7 per 1,000
• Property crime: 13.1 per 1,000
• Average one‑bedroom rent: $1,079
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 0.85

Located in Northeast Dallas, Lake Highlands is a popular choice for families, thanks to its reputable schools, roomy parks, and quiet residential pockets. The area features a mix of ranch-style homes and apartments, with abundant green space and community programs that foster engagement and pride of place. Frequent neighborhood patrols and well-kept roads enhance overall security.

With violent crime around 2.7 per 1,000 and property crime at 13.1 per 1,000, Lake Highlands stands out as a low-crime, high-comfort choice. Its eastern DART rail access makes commutes into Downtown or Deep Ellum relatively smooth, and it usually takes about 20 minutes by car. It’s an ideal option for renters who want suburban space within city limits.

Oak Lawn

Urban buzz with a safer core

• Violent crime: 3.0 per 1,000
• Property crime: 17.2 per 1,000
• Average one‑bedroom rent: $2,560
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 0.65

Oak Lawn offers one of the most diverse and culturally vibrant pockets of Dallas, popular among young professionals, creatives, and the LGBTQ+ community. The neighborhood balances nightlife with residential calm, and tree-lined side streets offer a retreat from the busier corridors of Cedar Springs Road and Lemmon Avenue. Regular police patrols, active local nonprofits, and residential buildings with controlled access help maintain security.

Crime levels in Oak Lawn are comfortably below citywide averages, with violent crime at 3.0 per 1,000 and property crime near 17.2 per 1,000. Walkability is high, and many renters appreciate being within a 15-minute drive from Downtown, Uptown, and Love Field. Oak Lawn offers the safety of a residential zone with the energy of a central urban hub.

Deep Ellum

Artsy, revitalized, and safer than expected

• Violent crime: 3.4 per 1,000
• Property crime: 20.2 per 1,000
• Average one‑bedroom rent: $1,874
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 1.28

Deep Ellum has long been Dallas’ center for live music, street art, and underground culture, but in recent years, it’s also become a magnet for new apartment buildings and creative tech spaces. With wider sidewalks, security cameras, and increased DPD patrols on weekends, the neighborhood has significantly improved its safety reputation while retaining its edge.

Violent crime in Deep Ellum hovers near 3.4 per 1,000, and property crime rates average around 20.2 per 1,000, still well below central Dallas highs. With quick DART access and commutes that take less than 10 minutes to most of the city’s major job centers, Deep Ellum appeals to renters looking for culture, connectivity, and a crime rate that’s steadily dropping.

Downtown Dallas

Dense, developed, and policed

• Violent crime: 3.7 per 1,000
• Property crime: 22.5 per 1,000
• Average one‑bedroom rent: $2,276
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: ~0.96

Downtown Dallas, the central business district, has undergone massive redevelopment in recent years, bringing with it high-end apartment towers, new retail corridors, and expanded parks like Klyde Warren. Security improvements include DPD camera integration, foot patrols along Main Street, and security partnerships with Downtown BID groups. Residents benefit from 24/7 building security and badge-access garage entry in most residential buildings.

Despite its size, Downtown Dallas reports violent crime at just 3.7 per 1,000 and property crime around 22.5 per 1,000, on par with much quieter urban areas. The location allows for walkable commutes to jobs in government, law, and finance, with direct DART access to the Medical District and beyond. For those who prioritize proximity and views, Downtown offers an increasingly safe living option.

Vickery

Stabilized, affordable, and transit‑accessible

• Violent crime: 3.2 per 1,000
• Property crime: 19.5 per 1,000
• Average one‑bedroom rent: $1,316
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 1.05
• Calculated from interpolated crime rate data and verified rent

Vickery is one of Dallas’ most ethnically diverse and fastest-changing neighborhoods, with a growing number of apartments, churches, and nonprofit-led safety initiatives. Long associated with affordability, the area now benefits from increased infrastructure investment and partnerships between local landlords and the DPD.

Recent crime reductions bring Vickery to around 3.2 per 1,000 in violent crime and 19.5 per 1,000 in property crime—a notable improvement over early 2020s trends. With access to US‑75, DART bus routes, and retail hubs like NorthPark Center, renters here enjoy shorter commutes and more square footage for their money, all while safety continues to trend up.

Highland Hills

Budget-friendly and gaining ground

• Violent crime: 3.9 per 1,000
• Property crime: 20.7 per 1,000
• Average one‑bedroom rent: $1,280
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 1.19

Situated in southern Dallas near Loop 12, Highland Hills is a residential neighborhood with large apartment communities, modest ranch-style homes, and a growing slate of city-led improvements. Sidewalk upgrades, brighter street lighting, and regular bulk waste pickups have all contributed to cleaner, safer blocks. While it was once overlooked, Highland Hills is now gaining attention from renters looking for an affordable cost of living in Dallas without sacrificing basic safety.

Violent crime in the area sits at around 3.9 per 1,000, and property crime hovers near 20.7 per 1,000, making it one of the most stable southern Dallas neighborhoods in its price tier. Commutes Downtown average about 25 minutes via Interstate 80. For those prioritizing low rent and steady progress, Highland Hills offers space, budget-friendliness, convenience, and ever-improving peace of mind.

Neighborhood Comparison: Crime, Rent, Commute at a Glance

Average Rent Differences Across Ranked Neighborhoods

Among the safest Dallas neighborhoods, rent varies widely. One-bedroom units in Oak Lawn average around $2,560 per month, while options in Vickery ($1,316) and Highland Hills ($1,280) remain far more affordable. That’s a difference of over $1,200 per month between neighborhoods that all rank well on safety and amenities.

Even so, higher rent doesn’t always guarantee lower crime. While upscale areas like Preston Hollow and Oak Lawn benefit from private patrols and gated access, several lower-cost neighborhoods like Lake Highlands (averaging $1,250 per month) maintain low crime rates through strong community engagement and consistent infrastructure investment.

Average Commute Time to Downtown, Medical District, and Las Colinas

We calculated 2025 Dallas commute times from each ranked neighborhood to three major employment centers:

• Downtown Dallas: Central hub for business, government, law, and tech.
• University of Texas Southwestern Medical District: Major healthcare and biotech employer zone.
• Las Colinas: Corporate and financial powerhouse home to several Fortune 500 headquarters.

These hubs were selected because they directly serve the neighborhoods in this guide:

• Downtown Dallas: Anchors areas like Uptown, Deep Ellum, and Downtown Dallas itself, all within five to 10 minutes by car.
• University of Texas Southwestern Medical District: A key employer for residents of Oak Lawn, Preston Hollow, and Vickery, each offering commutes that are under 15 minutes by car.
• Las Colinas: Pulls renters from northern and northwestern pockets like Preston Hollow, Vickery, and Lake Highlands, where corporate workers balance safety and access.

Drive times reflect typical weekday traffic (8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.), and DART estimates use official route data.

From Uptown

• Downtown Dallas (via McKinney Avenue): 5 minutes
• Medical District (via Harry Hines Boulevard): 8 minutes
• Las Colinas (via TX‑114 West): 22 minutes

From Preston Hollow

• Downtown Dallas (via Dallas North Tollway South): 15 minutes
• Medical District (via Dallas North Tollway South): 10 minutes
• Las Colinas (via TX‑635 West): 20 minutes

From Oak Lawn

• Downtown Dallas (via Oak Lawn Avenue): 8 minutes
• Medical District (via Oak Lawn Avenue): 6 minutes
• Las Colinas (via TX‑114 West): 24 minutes

From Lake Highlands

• Downtown Dallas (via US‑75 South): 20 minutes
• Medical District (via Dallas North Tollway): 22 minutes
• Las Colinas (via Interstate 635 West): 19 minutes

From Deep Ellum

• Downtown Dallas (via Main Street): 5 minutes
• Medical District (via Harry Hines Boulevard): 12 minutes
• Las Colinas (via TX-114 West): 26 minutes

From Downtown Dallas

• Downtown Dallas: 0 minutes
• Medical District (via Interstate 35E North): 10 minutes
• Las Colinas (via Interstate 35E North): 22 minutes

From Vickery

• Downtown Dallas (via Ross Avenue): 15 minutes
• Medical District (via Harry Hines Boulevard): 20 minutes
• Las Colinas (via Interstate 635 West): 30 minutes

From Highland Hills

• Downtown Dallas (via Interstate 30 West): 25 minutes
• Medical District (via Interstate 30 West): 30 minutes
• Las Colinas (via Interstate 30 West): 35 minutes

Choosing the Right Safe Neighborhood for Your Lifestyle

Safety looks different for everyone. Whether you’re after peaceful, residential blocks or lively, walkable neighborhoods with nightlife and transit access, the key is finding a balance between personal security and everyday convenience. Here's how to match your safety priorities with your lifestyle and without overpaying.

Public Transit-Friendly Yet Safe Areas

If you don’t own a car but still want to feel secure, these neighborhoods combine reliable public transit with lower crime rates. These are ideal for renters who value both safety and mobility.

• Old East Dallas/Henderson: Walk score: 73; Transit access: DART Green Line at Baylor Station, bus lines 76, 81, and 409
• Uptown: Walk Score: 96; Transit access: McKinney Avenue Trolley (M-Line), DART bus service, and close to Cityplace/Uptown Station (Red, Blue, and Orange lines)

These walkable Dallas neighborhoods are also well-equipped for short-distance travel. With easy access to scooters, bike shares, and local rideshare services, getting from your doorstep to a train or bus stop is fast, safe, and hassle-free, all with no car needed.

Up-and-Coming Affordable Pockets to Watch

You don’t have to move to a gated community or the far suburbs to find a safe place to live. Several up-and-coming Dallas neighborhoods are showing steady safety gains while still keeping rents within reach:

• Bachman-Northwest Highway: This northwest Dallas neighborhood is seeing safety gains thanks to recent infrastructure upgrades and transit access near Bachman Lake.
• Redbird: With city-led investment and new commercial development, Redbird is becoming a more secure, budget-friendly option in southern Dallas.
• Five Mile Creek: Nestled near parks and greenbelts, Five Mile Creek offers improving safety and quiet residential streets at accessible price points.

Key indicators include:

• New mixed-use construction (retail and residential).
• Three-year crime trend decline in DPD stats.
• Increased lighting, surveillance, or community patrols.

Check Block-Level Safety Before Signing a Lease

Not all streets are created equal—even in neighborhoods known for being safe. Your specific block can make a big difference. Here’s how to do your due diligence before signing a lease:

• Look up the address on the Dallas Police Department crime map for recent reports.
• Check community safety apps like Nextdoor, Citizen, or Neighbors by Ring.
• Drive or walk the neighborhood at night—look for working streetlights, steady foot traffic, and overall comfort level.
• Ask the landlord or property manager about security features—many rentals now include smart locks, video doorbells, or motion-sensor lighting, sometimes at a discount.

Doing a little homework upfront helps you avoid surprises—and gives you real peace of mind once you move in.

How Apartment List’s Quiz Matches You Faster

Looking for a safer place to move to Dallas without spending hours scrolling through listings? Apartment List’s smart quiz takes under 90 seconds and matches you with rentals based on what actually matters, like your budget, commute time, and safety preferences. It’s a fast, personalized way to find secure apartments that fit your lifestyle on day one. Take the quiz and see your matches today. With Apartment List, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dallas’ Safest Neighborhoods

Which Dallas neighborhoods are both safe and affordable?

Lake Highlands and Highland Hills top the list, with violent crime rates under 3.0 per 1,000 residents and average one-bedroom rents below $1,300, according to Apartment List’s July 2025 data. These areas offer strong value for renters who want peace of mind without paying premium prices.

Are there safe places to live close to Downtown Dallas?

Yes, Uptown and Deep Ellum both sit within a five- to 10-minute commute to the city center and post violent crime rates below 4.0 per 1,000. These neighborhoods balance proximity with lower crime and walkable amenities.

How current is the crime data in this guide?

All crime statistics reflect the most recent available data from January 2024 through June 2025, using sources like the Dallas Police Department, CrimeGrade.org, and the FBI NIBRS system.

What tools can I use to check safety before renting?

Try the Dallas PD online crime map, the Citizen app, or Neighbors by Ring. These tools help renters track recent incidents and get a feel for block-level safety before signing a lease.

Which safe Dallas neighborhood has the shortest commute to the Medical District?

Oak Lawn offers one of the shortest commutes, just six minutes by car, while maintaining a violent crime rate near 3.0 per 1,000. Preston Hollow and Vickery are also nearby with strong safety scores.

Do safety levels change after dark in Dallas?

Yes. Property crime often rises in the evening across most Dallas neighborhoods. However, areas like Preston Hollow, Uptown, and Oak Lawn tend to maintain consistent lighting, foot traffic, and active patrols that help deter overnight incidents.

How can I check crime on the exact block of an apartment?

Use the Dallas Police Department’s online crime map. Enter the property address and filter by date range and distance (0.1 miles is a reasonable radius for block-level clarity).

What smart-home features help renters stay safe?

Look for units with smart locks, video doorbells, and motion-sensor lighting. Many Dallas apartments offer these as upgrades—or even include them—and they may help reduce your renters insurance premium.

How much should I spend on rent in Dallas?

Use the 30% rule as a guide: Spend no more than 30% of your income on rent. With average one-bedroom rent in Dallas at $1,540, you’d need to earn about $5,133 per month or $61,600 per year to stay on budget.

How much does an apartment cost in Dallas?

Trying to figure out how much an apartment costs in Dallas? As of July 2025, rent in Dallas is $1,540 for a one-bedroom, $2,233 for a two-bedroom, and $1,415 for a studio. Affordable areas like Highland Hills average $1,280, while upscale neighborhoods such as Oak Lawn rent for around $2,560.