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

August 20, 2025
This guide ranks the safest neighborhoods in Oklahoma City using the latest data, including violent and property crime rates, average rent prices, and walkability.

Oklahoma City has plenty of neighborhoods where renters can feel safer in 2025, and this guide highlights nine that stand out for the right reasons. From peaceful residential pockets like The Village to lively, amenity-rich areas like Midtown, these communities combine lower crime rates, fair rents, and day-to-day comfort.

With safety ranking high for many apartment hunters, having clear data on crime can make your search quicker and your decision easier. We pulled the latest violent and property crime figures from CrimeGrade.org and the Oklahoma City Police Department, then matched them with verified rent data from Apartment List. We also cross-referenced rent data from Apartments.com and Rent.com to give you the most accurate snapshot of rents across OKC as of mid-2025.

Below, you’ll find a neighborhood-by-neighborhood look at average rent, safety metrics, nearby transit, and what day-to-day living feels like in each. Use this 2025 guide to narrow your search to Oklahoma City apartments that feel like a good fit from the start.

Is Oklahoma City Safe for Renters?

Safety in Oklahoma City in 2025 continues to improve, but results depend heavily on where you live. Here’s what the latest data shows:

Violent crime is down modestly, with early-year reports pointing to a 35% drop in homicides compared to the same period last year. Property crime and theft remain area-dependent, but the overall violent crime rate in Oklahoma City stands at approximately 4.679 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime is about 23.25 per 1,000, both hovering above state averages.

Vehicle theft is still a financial burden, with projected costs for 2025 estimated at $100 million citywide, or about $67 per resident.

While these figures show encouraging progress, CrimeGrade rates Oklahoma City as relatively high risk compared to other metros, giving it a D overall. That emphasizes the importance of looking at neighborhood-level data, not just citywide trends, to find rental areas where safety and daily life stay in sync.

Here’s what the most recent data reveals about crime trends in Oklahoma City:

  • Violent crime is easing slowly. Through March, robberies are down 24% compared to last year.
  • National crime trends are cooling. In the first half of 2025, serious offenses such as robbery dropped 30% and overall violent and property crime continued sliding from elevated pandemic-era peaks.
  • Crime-related costs per resident are relatively low. The tangible cost of violent crime in OKC is around $290 per person annually, about $32 higher than the national average.
  • Property crimes still account for a higher share of costs statewide. For comparison, the typical resident in Oklahoma (statewide) faces $573 in crime costs, showing how OKC is somewhat more affordable in this area.

While Oklahoma City’s overall CrimeGrade remains moderate, it’s neighborhood-level analysis that reveals where safety is improving—whether it's through tech-assisted policing or community outreach.

Violent vs. Property Crime Breakdown

Crime TypeRate Per 1,000 Residents
Assault3.201
Robbery0.3965
Rape1.015
Murder0.662
Total Violent Crime4.679
Burglary4.268
Theft14.51
Motor Vehicle Theft4.299
Arson0.1821
Total Property Crime23.27

Theft is the current major driver of crime in Oklahoma City, currently over 14.51 incidents per 1,000 residents.

How Safer Neighborhoods Compare to Citywide Averages

For renters who prioritize safety, certain Oklahoma City neighborhoods post crime rates well below the city average, making them smart choices for 2025. While entertainment-heavy areas like Bricktown see more incidents, many residential districts maintain consistently lower rates for both violent and property crime.

In Nichols Hills, for example, violent crime rates are among the lowest in the metro, partly due to limited through traffic, well-lit streets, and active neighborhood patrol programs. This area appeals to renters seeking a suburban feel without straying far from downtown.

Meanwhile, Mesta Park, located just north of Midtown, keeps crime below city norms while offering tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and walkable access to local shops and cafes. Its engaged neighborhood association and consistent police visibility contribute to a safer rental experience.

How We Identified Oklahoma City’s Safest Neighborhoods

To pinpoint the safest neighborhoods for renters in Oklahoma City in 2025, we analyzed the most recent violent and property crime data from CrimeGrade.org and the Oklahoma City Police Department. We compared neighborhood-level rates per 1,000 residents to both the citywide average and national benchmarks, giving a per-capita view that reflects how safe an area feels, not just raw incident counts.

Next, we paired this safety data with 2025 rent estimates from Apartment List, and cross-referenced with listings from Apartments.com and Rent.com to make sure recommendations fit a range of budgets.

Data Sources and Time Frames

Our 2025 rankings for Oklahoma City’s safest neighborhoods for renters use verified, multi-source data:

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)

FactorWeightDetails
Crime Rate50%Combined violent and property crime per 1,000 residents — lower is better
Rent Affordability20%Average one-bedroom rent compared to Oklahoma City’s citywide average of $1,153
Amenities20%Composite score including:

Parks per square mile (0–10 scale) Walk Score (0–100 scale) Grocery stores within 1 mile (0–5 scale)| |Commute|10%|Average peak-hour drive or transit time to downtown Oklahoma City|

Crime-to-Rent Ratio Explained

The crime-to-rent ratio shows how many reported crimes occur for every $1,000 of annual rent, letting you compare affordability and safety in one quick number. The lower the ratio, the more safety you’re getting for each housing dollar spent.

For example: If an Oklahoma City neighborhood has 120 reported crimes in a year and the average one-bedroom rent is $950/month ($11,400/year), the ratio comes out to 10.53 crimes per $1,000 of rent.

This figure is especially useful if you’re aiming for a place that balances lower housing costs with lower crime, not just one or the other

9 Safest Oklahoma City Neighborhoods for Renters

Hunting for a rental in Oklahoma City where safety is part of the package? These nine neighborhoods lead the way in 2025, backed by the latest violent and property crime statistics.

Each one combines above-average crime grades with renter-friendly housing options and local amenities, whether that’s walkable streets, nearby parks, or active neighborhood watch programs. The result: areas where you can feel good about both your home and your surroundings.

Newcastle - Small-Town Calm, Noticeable Safety

Looking for a quiet place that doesn’t compromise on cost or peace of mind? Newcastle delivers. With violent crime just 2.15 per 1,000 residents and one-bedrooms averaging $887, this small-town suburb keeps it safe and affordable. It’s not flashy, but that’s kind of the point.

Warwick Estates - Low-Key Living, High Peace of Mind

Tucked away but not out of reach, Warwick Estates is a safety-first suburb with budget-friendly rent. With a crime-to-rent ratio of 1.81, it offers big value for folks who want calm streets and simple living. Think less stress, more breathing room.

Edmond - Polished, Pricey, and Pretty Safe

  • Violent Crime: 2.419/1,000
  • Property Crime: 13.25/1,000
  • Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,517
  • Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 0.86

Edmond offers the perks of suburban life with the price tag to match. Rent averages $1,517, but crime stays low. Its 0.86 crime-to-rent ratio reflects a community that invests in safety. It’s a popular pick for professionals chasing that work-life sweet spot.

Edmond, one of the safest neighborhoods in Oklahoma City

Yukon - Peaceful Streets, Mid-Range Rent

  • Violent Crime: 2.334/1,000
  • Property Crime: 10.55/1,000
  • Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,136
  • Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 0.94

In Yukon, calm comes standard. With low crime and a one-bedroom average of $1,136, this western suburb feels safe without breaking the bank. It’s a solid choice for anyone who wants a quieter life, but still needs to hit the highway fast.

Jones - Rural Quiet with Rock-Bottom Rent

With rents averaging just $566, Jones is easy on your budget and your nerves. While property crime is slightly higher for the area, the ultra-low rent drives down your crime-to-rent ratio, making Jones one of the best safety values per dollar.

Mustang - Low Rent, Easy Living

Mustang lives up to its name, as unfussy, reliable, and growing fast. With one-bedrooms around $672 and crime rates on the low side, it’s a value-packed option for renters who want space to breathe and prices that let them.

Small street in one of the safest neighborhoods in Oklahoma City

Choctaw - Room to Roam, Priced to Match

  • Violent Crime: 3.048/1,000
  • Property Crime: 12.35/1,000
  • Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,005
  • Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 1.28

Choctaw gives you that roomy, relaxed energy without straying too far from the city. The rent averages $1,005, but crime rates stay in check, making it a smart pick for renters looking for elbow room without anxiety.

Nicoma Park - Budget-Friendly, Rural Feel

Nicoma Park’s rent won’t scare you, but the higher property crime rate might give you pause. Even so, at $910 a month, the price is right, and the rural, communal feel is a nice vibe for anyone looking to spread out outside of the city center

Forest Park

With an average one-bedroom rent of $910, Forest Park offers a peaceful setting that won’t stretch your budget. It’s a fit for renters looking to enjoy green space, easy commutes, and solid value, without wandering too far from the city.

Safest Oklahoma City Neighborhood Comparison: Crime, Rent, Commute at a Glance

NeighborhoodOverall Crime Score (Compared to City Average)Average One-Bedroom ApartmentCommute to Downtown Oklahoma City (8:00-9:00 AM)
NewcastleOutstanding$88726 minutes
Warwick EstatesAbove Average$83322 minutes
EdmondAbove Average$1,51720 minutes
YukonOutstanding$1,13626 minutes
JonesAbove Average$56628 minutes
MustangOutstanding$67228 minutes
ChoctawOutstanding$1,00528 minutes
Nicoma ParkAbove Average$91022 minutes
Forest ParkAverage$91012 minutes

Rent Ranges Across OKC’s Safest Neighborhoods

Among OKC’s top-ranked safe neighborhoods, rents vary just as much as the vibes. One-bedrooms in Edmond average around $1,517, while more wallet-friendly areas like Jones and Mustang come in under $700. That’s a monthly spread of more than $800, all in neighborhoods with solid safety stats.

And higher rent doesn’t always mean safer streets. While Edmond offers a polished package with a low crime-to-rent ratio, budget spots like Newcastle and Mustang hold their own when it comes to safety.

Translation: You don’t have to pay top dollar to find a secure place that fits your lifestyle—and your rent range.

Commute Times to Downtown OKC and Will Rogers World Airport

We mapped out 2025 average morning commute times from each featured OKC-area neighborhood to two major destinations: Downtown Oklahoma City and Will Rogers World Airport.

Driving estimates reflect typical weekday traffic between 8:00–9:30 a.m., while public transit times are based on current EMBARK bus routes. You’ll notice a lack of extended public transit options in a lot of the safer neighborhoods, which is something to consider.

This side-by-side view helps renters compare convenience—whether you're heading to an office, catching a flight, or just trying to spend less time behind the wheel.

From Newcastle

  • Downtown OKC (via car) - 26 minutes
  • Downtown OKC (via public transit) - N/A
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via car) - 18 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via public transit) - N/A

From Warwick Estates

  • Downtown OKC (via car) - 22 minutes
  • Downtown OKC (via public transit) - N/A
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via car) - 22 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via public transit) - N/A

From Edmond

  • Downtown OKC (via car) - 20 minutes
  • Downtown OKC (via public transit) - 47 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via car) - 30 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via public transit) - N/A

From Yukon

  • Downtown OKC (via car) - 26 minutes
  • Downtown OKC (via public transit) - N/A
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via car) - 20 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via public transit) - N/A

From Jones

  • Downtown OKC (via car) - 28 minutes
  • Downtown OKC (via public transit) - N/A
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via car) - 35 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via public transit) - N/A

From Mustang

  • Downtown OKC (via car) - 16 minutes
  • Downtown OKC (via public transit) - N/A
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via car) - 28 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via public transit) - N/A

From Choctaw

  • Downtown OKC (via car) - 28 minutes
  • Downtown OKC (via public transit) - N/A
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via car) - 35 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via public transit) - N/A

From Nicoma Park

  • Downtown OKC (via car) - 22 minutes
  • Downtown OKC (via public transit) - 2 hours and 16 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via car) - 30 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via public transit) - N/A

From Forest Park

  • Downtown OKC (via car) - 12 minutes
  • Downtown OKC (via public transit) - 1 hour and 5 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via car) - 20 minutes
  • Will Rogers International Airport (via public transit) - N/A

Choosing the Right Safe Neighborhood for Your Lifestyle

Safety means different things to different renters. Maybe you want a quiet cul-de-sac near a school. Or maybe “safe” means you can walk your dog at 10 p.m. without a second thought. In Oklahoma City, you’ve got options. You just need to know where to look.

Car-Lite and Still Connected

Skipping the car? These neighborhoods let you stay mobile without a long haul:

  • Downtown OKC – Walk to work, catch a show, or hop on the streetcar—it’s all within reach.
  • Midtown – Compact, central, and brimming with coffee shops, coworking, and crosswalks.
  • The Paseo – Artsy charm meets bike-friendly streets and a growing mix of local spots.

Up-and-coming affordable pockets to watch

These neighborhoods are balancing budget-friendly rent with promising safety trends:

  • Tuttle – A peaceful escape with small-town warmth and wallet-friendly pricing, all within a manageable drive to OKC.
  • Warr Acres – Quiet, welcoming, and refreshingly affordable, this suburb delivers the essentials—local shops, schools, and steady calm.
  • Mesta Park – Close to Midtown and downtown, this walkable, art-forward neighborhood blends vintage charm with fresh energy—and an active street-side vibe that feels safe and connected.

What to look for:

  • Steady declines in crime over the past few years
  • Improved lighting, sidewalks, and public spaces
  • New retail or residential projects bringing more eyes (and energy) to the area

Check the block before you sign

Even in safe-rated spots, things can shift from one street to the next. Before you move:

  • Plug the address into the OKC Crime Map or check local reports
  • Browse Nextdoor or Citizen for recent chatter
  • Visit at night to see what lighting and foot traffic really look like
  • Ask the landlord about locks, cameras, or any recent security upgrades \

A little recon now means a smoother, safer move, whether your dream spot is in a cozy ranch home or a modern mid-rise downtown.

How Apartment List’s Quiz Matches You Faster

OKC has everything from tucked-away suburbs to downtown lofts, but sifting through listings that don’t fit? Hard pass. Our quick quiz (it really takes under 90 seconds) learns what matters most to you—like your budget, commute to downtown or Tinker, and how high safety ranks on your list. Then we match you with apartments that actually check your boxes.

Skip the scroll-fest. Answer a few questions, get smarter matches, and tour the places you’ll actually want to live.

Take the quiz and see your matches today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oklahoma City’s Safest Neighborhoods

Which safe OKC neighborhoods offer the lowest average rent?

Jones, Mustang, and Warwick Estates all offer one-bedroom rents under $850 with lower-than-average violent crime. These spots are ideal for renters who want peace of mind without paying premium prices.

Are there safe areas close to Downtown OKC?

Absolutely. Neighborhoods like Mesta Park and Midtown pair walkable streets and historic charm with solid safety stats—and you're just minutes from the heart of the city.

How current Is the crime data in this guide?

All safety data is based on reports filed from January 2024 to June 2025, pulled from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, FBI NIBRS database, and CrimeGrade.org.

What online tools help monitor neighborhood safety in OKC?

To get a clearer picture of local safety, check out the OKC Police Department crime map, the Citizen app, SpotCrime, or CrimeGrade.org. They’re handy tools for reviewing recent incidents before signing a lease.

Which safe OKC neighborhoods have the quickest commutes?

Edmond, Yukon, and Choctaw offer quick drive times to both Downtown OKC and Will Rogers World Airport, many under 25 minutes during non-peak hours.

Do safety levels change after dark?

Like most cities, OKC sees a bit more property crime after dark. That said, areas with active nightlife, good lighting, and frequent patrols, like Midtown and Bricktown, tend to feel more secure in the evenings.

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Tyler Connaghan
CONTENT WRITER
For over a decade, Tyler Connaghan has excelled in content strategy, specializing in article writing and website content creation. Through his deep interest in knowledge and partnerships with notable real estate firms, he has refined his skill in producing content that highlights the rental sector's key aspects. Read More

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