9 Safest Denver Neighborhoods for Renters in 2025 (Crime & Rent Data)

Denver has no shortage of safe, renter-friendly neighborhoods, and this guide spotlights nine that rise above the rest. From quiet, suburban-feel areas like Gateway to amenity-rich hubs like Cherry Creek, these spots deliver the rare combination of lower crime rates, reasonable rents, and everyday peace of mind.

With safety high on the priority list for many renters, knowing which neighborhoods are statistically safer can make your search faster and your choice more confident. We pulled the latest violent and property crime stats from CrimeGrade.org and the Denver Police Department, along with a cross-reference of verified rent estimates from Apartment List, Apartments.com, and Rent.com, to find where your money (and peace of mind) goes further.

Below, you’ll get a neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown with average rent, safety metrics, nearby transit, and what life feels like in each. Use this 2025 guide to zero in on the Denver apartment that lets you feel good coming home.

Is Denver Safe for Renters?

Denver’s safety picture is improving as 2025 progresses, but exact numbers vary by neighborhood. According to recent data, violent crime is down about 9% overall, and the murder rate has plunged 49%, the steepest drop among major U.S. cities. Property crime is also down roughly 9%, and auto theft has seen a notable 33% decline year over year.

To top it off, Denver is reporting its lowest midyear homicide rate in over a decade, at 2.7 per 100,000 residents, thanks to smarter enforcement, 95% of police roles filled, visible presence in hot spots like LoDo and East Colfax, and a strong 83% homicide solve rate.

Still, not all streets are created equal. Some districts, especially nightlife corridors and business strips, see higher incident levels than quiet residential pockets. And overall, the city has a relatively low crime grade compared to the rest of the U.S., at a D-.

That’s why relying on neighborhood-level data matters most. Our guide dives into where renters will find the safest vibes, not just citywide averages.

Denver Crime Trends in 2025

• Reported violent crime in Denver is down more than 30% year to date in 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with more than one thousand fewer assaults and robberies reported citywide.
• The murder rate has dropped an unprecedented 49%, marking Denver’s lowest midyear homicide rate in over a decade.
• According to CrimeGrade.org (2025), the estimated cost of crime per Denver resident is approximately $710 per year, $246 more than the national average.

Analysts point to expanded patrol staffing, targeted enforcement in nightlife districts, and community-led safety initiatives as driving factors, with forecasts showing continued declines into late 2025.

Violent vs. Property Crime Breakdown

Theft is driving a large portion of property crime in Denver, currently over 16.65 incidents per 1,000 residents, making it one of the fastest-growing crime categories in the city.

How Safer Neighborhoods Compare to Citywide Averages

For renters who put peace of mind at the top of the list, several Denver neighborhoods post crime rates well below city averages, making them top contenders in 2025. While Denver’s overall crime rate sits higher in nightlife-heavy districts, certain pockets consistently come in lower for both violent and property crime.

Gateway, for example, reports some of the lowest incident rates in the city, thanks in part to its quieter streets, nearby open space, and active community watch efforts. It’s a favorite among families and long-term renters seeking calm without moving to the suburbs.

Closer to the city’s core, Washington Park manages to keep crime rates below the citywide average while offering a lively but safe environment. Its green spaces, walkable streets, and steady community presence make it a solid pick for renters who want central access without compromising security.

How We Identified Denver’s Safest Neighborhoods

To highlight the safest Denver neighborhoods for renters in 2025, we combined the latest crime statistics with verified rent data and neighborhood livability metrics. This approach ensures each recommendation balances day-to-day security with affordability and overall quality of life.

We focused on violent and property crime rates per 1,000 residents, comparing them to both Denver’s citywide averages and national benchmarks. This per-capita view offers a clearer picture of how safe an area feels, not just the raw number of incidents. Using 2025 Apartment List rent estimates, we filtered for neighborhoods that deliver strong safety without pushing you past your budget.

We also factored in walk scores, transit access, and public school ratings where relevant. From quiet residential streets to centrally located hubs, each pick is backed by hard data so you can rent with confidence.

Data Sources and Time Frames

Our rankings for Denver’s safest neighborhoods for renters in 2025 use verified, multisource data:

• Denver Police Department open data catalog (January 2024 through June 2025).
• FBI National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) crime data (finalized 2023 stats).
• Apartment List Rent estimates (Q2 2025, based on 5,000+ active listings).
• U.S. Census American Community Survey (2024 population estimates).
• CrimeGrade.org data (2025 update).

This dataset reflects the most current safety and housing conditions available, helping renters make informed choices in 2025.

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

Crime-to-Rent Ratio Explained

The crime-to-rent ratio measures how many reported crimes occur per $1,000 of annual rent, giving you a quick way to compare affordability and safety in one number. A lower ratio means you’re getting more security for every housing dollar.

For example, if a Denver neighborhood reports 150 crimes per year and the average one-bedroom rent is $1,500 per month ($18,000 annually), the ratio is 8.33 crimes per $1,000 of rent.

This metric is especially useful if you want more than just the cheapest rent or the safest ZIP code—you want both to work together.

9 Safest Denver Neighborhoods for Renters

Looking for a secure place to rent in Denver? These nine neighborhoods stand out in 2025 for their strong safety scores, based on the latest violent and property crime data. Each offers a winning mix of lower-than-average crime rates, renter-friendly housing options, and neighborhood perks, whether that’s walkable streets, nearby parks, or active community patrol programs.

Gateway

Quiet, suburban access

• Violent crime: 4.019/1,000
• Property crime: 12.920/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,702
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 0.83

On Denver’s eastern edge, Gateway offers a quieter, more suburban feel with easy access to open space and Denver International Airport. Violent crime is just 4.019 per 1,000 residents, well below the city average, and property crime is a modest 12.920 per 1,000.

With one-bedroom rents averaging $1,702, the low crime-to-rent ratio makes it one of Denver’s best safety values. Gateway’s mix of newer developments, local parks, and quick highway access appeals to professionals and families who want peace without sacrificing connectivity.

West Highland

Historic and lively

• Violent crime: 6.289/1,000
• Property crime: 42.050/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,715
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 1.48

West Highland blends historic charm with a lively local scene. Violent crime rates are 6.289 per 1,000, better than many other central neighborhoods, while property crime stands at 42.050 per 1,000.

One-bedroom rents average $2,715, giving it a moderate crime-to-rent ratio. Residents enjoy leafy streets, craft eateries, and proximity to Sloan Lake, making it ideal for renters who want community and character with relative safety.

Central Park

Family-friendly master plan

• Violent crime: 4.834/1,000
• Property crime: 32.880/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,098
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 1.49

Central Park, formerly known as Stapleton, offers family-friendly streets and abundant parks. Violent crime is 4.834 per 1,000, and property crime is 32.880 per 1,000, both near city averages.

One-bedroom rents average $2,098, reflecting the neighborhood’s desirability. Its trails, playgrounds, and town center shops make it a standout for renters who prioritize safety and outdoor access.

Hilltop

Leafy streets and new construction

• Violent crime: 2.334/1,000
• Property crime: 16.960/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,723
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 1.08

Hilltop lives up to its name, perched above the city chaos with a calmer, more residential feel. With violent crime at just 2.334 per 1,000 and property crime at 16.960 per 1,000, safety scores here beat Denver averages by a mile.

And the rent is way lower than you'd expect for a neighborhood this chill. At $1,723 for a one-bedroom, it’s a solid deal for renters who want peace of mind (and maybe a bit more square footage). With quiet streets, tree-lined sidewalks, and a steady pace, Hilltop is ideal for anyone looking to step off the gas without stepping out of the city.

Wellshire

Family-oriented with nearby golf courses

• Violent crime: 3.909/1,000
• Property crime: 26.990/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,661
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 1.55

Wellshire is a calm residential neighborhood that feels worlds away from Downtown Denver, even though it’s only a short drive. Anchored by the Wellshire Golf Course and tree-lined streets, the neighborhood draws families and long-term renters who value space and stability. Local schools have solid reputations, and nearby parks make it easy to enjoy outdoor time without leaving the area.

The combination of a low crime rate and a low average one-bedroom rent—the lowest on this list—makes Wellshire a great value for both safety and affordability.

Washington Park

Green space in the city

• Violent crime: 4.924/1,000
• Property crime: 34.910/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,840
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 1.80

Washington Park is known for its namesake green space and community feel. Violent crime is 4.924 per 1,000, while property crime is 34.910 per 1,000. One-bedroom rents average $1,840, giving renters a solid safety return for the price.

The park’s lakes, trails, and sports fields are steps from home, making it a favorite for active residents.

University Park

Campus-adjacent calm

• Violent crime: 4.591/1,000
• Property crime: 32.860/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,686
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 1.85

University Park blends a campus-adjacent location with low crime, at 4.591 violent crimes per 1,000 and 32.860 property crimes per 1,000. One-bedroom rents average $1,686, putting safety well within reach for students and professionals.

The area’s tree-lined streets, cafes, and light rail access make it convenient without the noise of busier districts.

Cherry Creek

Upscale and well-kept

• Violent crime: 4.508/1,000
• Property crime: 41.200/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,522
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 1.51

Cherry Creek offers luxury shopping and dining alongside notable safety. Violent crime is 4.508 per 1,000, though property crime is higher at 41.200 per 1,000. With one-bedroom rents averaging $2,522, it’s a premium pick for those who value low violent crime rates and high-end amenities.

The Cherry Creek Trail and upscale boutiques are neighborhood staples.

Platt Park

Charming and community-focused

• Violent crime: 5.663/1,000
• Property crime: 39.130/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $1,947
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 1.81

Platt Park offers small-town charm with city convenience. Known for its tree-lined streets, local boutiques, and the popular South Pearl Street farmers market, it’s a neighborhood where neighbors still wave hello.

Violent crime rates sit at 5.663 per 1,000 residents, with property crime at 39.130 per 1,000, both below Denver’s busier districts. One-bedroom rents average $1,947, giving it a solid crime-to-rent ratio of 1.81. Light rail access makes commutes easy, while nearby parks and walkable dining spots keep weekends relaxed.

Neighborhood Comparison: Crime, Rent, Commute at a Glance

Average rent differences across ranked neighborhoods

Among Denver’s safest neighborhoods, rents span a wide range. One-bedroom apartments in Cherry Creek average about $2,522, while more budget-friendly options like Wellshire sit closer to $1,660. That’s a monthly gap of nearly $1,200, even though all three boast strong safety numbers.

Higher rent doesn’t always translate to lower crime, either. While premium areas like Central Park and Cherry Creek pair relatively low crime with master-planned amenities, several mid-priced spots, such as Washington Park and Platt Park, offer competitive safety without top-tier pricing. For renters, that means it’s possible to find a secure neighborhood that fits your budget, whether you’re looking for luxury, affordability, or something in between.

Average Commute Time to Downtown Denver and Denver International Airport

We calculated 2025 average commute times from each featured Denver neighborhood to two of the metro’s major employment hubs: Downtown Denver and the Denver International Airport (DIA).

Driving times reflect typical weekday traffic between 8:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., while public transit estimates are based on official Regional Transportation District (RTD) light rail and bus route data. This side-by-side view helps renters weigh both convenience to the city’s core and ease of airport access—a must for frequent flyers and hospitality workers alike.

From Gateway

• Downtown Denver (via car): 35 minutes
• Downtown Denver (via public transit): 1 hour and 11 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via car): 10 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via public transit): 38 minutes

From West Highland

• Downtown Denver (via car): 16 minutes
• Downtown Denver (via public transit): 35 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via car): 30 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via public transit): 1 hour and 4 minutes

From Central Park

• Downtown Denver (via car): 22 minutes
• Downtown Denver (via public transit): 41 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via car): 18 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via public transit): 34 minutes

From Hilltop

• Downtown Denver (via car): 20 minutes
• Downtown Denver (via public transit): 39 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via car): 30 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via public transit): 1 hour and 13 minutes

From Wellshire

• Downtown Denver (via car): 24 minutes
• Downtown Denver (via public transit): 53 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via car): 30 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via public transit): 1 hour and 18 minutes

From Washington Park

• Downtown Denver (via car): 18 minutes
• Downtown Denver (via public transit): 32 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via car): 40 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via public transit): 1 hour and 23 minutes

From University Park

• Downtown Denver (via car): 20 minutes
• Downtown Denver (via public transit): 37 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via car): 35 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via public transit): 1 hour and 10 minutes

From Cherry Creek

• Downtown Denver (via car): 14 minutes
• Downtown Denver (via public transit): 27 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via car): 35 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via public transit): 1 hour and 13 minutes

From Platt Park

• Downtown Denver (via car): 18 minutes
• Downtown Denver (via public transit): 30 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via car): 35 minutes
• Denver International Airport (via public transit): 1 hour and 7 minutes

Choosing the Right Safe Neighborhood for Your Lifestyle

Safety isn’t one-size-fits-all. Maybe you’re looking for a calm block near a playground. Or maybe your definition of “safe” includes well-lit sidewalks after a late show and a quick ride home. In Denver, you can get both—if you know where to focus your search.

Transit-Friendly Yet Safe Areas for Car-Free Living

Car-free in the Mile High City? These neighborhoods keep you connected and comfortable:

• Capitol Hill: Walk everywhere, grab a bus in minutes, and hop on the nearby light rail for longer trips.
• Downtown Denver: Union Station is your all-in-one transit hub, and you’re steps from coffee, coworking, and concerts.
• University Park: Light rail to Downtown, bike lanes to campus, and quiet streets when you need to recharge.

Up-and-Coming Affordable Pockets to Watch

Looking to save without sacrificing peace of mind? These areas are showing safety gains and steady investment:

• Gateway: Newer apartments, expanding retail, and some of Denver’s lowest crime rates.
• Virginia Village: Midcentury homes, improving lighting, and better bike infrastructure on the way.

What to look for:

• Declining multiyear crime trends in neighborhood stats.
• Recent lighting upgrades and active neighborhood watch groups.
• New mixed-use projects bringing daily needs closer to home.

Check the Block Before You Sign

Even in safe-rated areas, the vibe can change from one street to the next. Before you commit:

• Plug the address into the Denver Police Department Crime Map.
• Scan Nextdoor and Citizen for recent activity.
• Visit at night to check the lighting and foot traffic.
• Ask about building security, such as door locks, cameras, or recent upgrades.

A little homework now means a smoother, safer move later—whether your perfect spot is a leafy side street or a high-rise with mountain views.

How Apartment List’s Quiz Matches You Faster

Denver’s neighborhoods are as varied as its weather, so why waste hours sifting through apartments that miss the mark? Our quick quiz (under 90 seconds, promise) uses your must-haves—think commute time to LoDo, budget sweet spot, and how high safety ranks on your list—to zero in on the right fit. You’ll get personalized, renter-ready options that feel made for you, minus the guesswork.

Skip the click marathon. Answer a few questions, get smarter matches, and start touring the places you’ll actually want to call home.

Take the quiz and see your matches today. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

Frequently Asked Questions About Denver’s Safest Neighborhoods

Which safe Denver neighborhoods offer the lowest average rent?

Gateway and Hilltop top the list for renters who want both affordability and peace of mind. Each posts one-bedroom rents under $1,700 and violent crime rates well below the city’s busier neighborhoods.

Are there safe areas close to Downtown Denver?

Yes. Cherry Creek, West Highland, and Hilltop offer central access with lower-than-average violent crime, walkable streets, and strong RTD transit connections for an easy commute.

How current is the crime data in this guide?

All safety metrics reflect reports filed between January 2024 and June 2025, sourced from the Denver Police Department, the FBI NIBRS database, and CrimeGrade.org.

What online tools help monitor neighborhood safety in Denver?

Use the Denver Police Department crime map, CrimeGrade.org, the Citizen app, and SpotCrime to track neighborhood-specific incidents before committing to a lease.

Which safe Denver neighborhoods have the quickest commutes?

University Park, Central Park, and Gateway offer short transit or drive times to both Downtown Denver and Denver International Airport, often under 30 minutes outside of rush hour.

Do safety levels change after dark?

Yes. While most neighborhoods see a slight uptick in property crime at night, areas like Cherry Creek and Central Park maintain steadier safety thanks to active patrols, better lighting, and lively evening businesses.