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

Philadelphia has plenty of safe neighborhoods for renters in 2025, and this guide highlights nine that stand out. From leafy enclaves like Chestnut Hill to amenity-rich city neighborhoods like Bella Vista, these areas offer the rare combo of lower crime rates, livable rent, and everyday peace of mind.

With safety top of mind for many renters, understanding which parts of the city are statistically safer can make a huge difference. We used the latest violent and property crime data from CrimeGrade.org and the Philadelphia Police Department, plus verified rent estimates from Apartment List, to pinpoint where your money (and peace of mind) goes further.

Below, you’ll find a neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown that includes average rent, safety metrics, nearby transit, and what life’s really like in each area. Use this 2025 guide to confidently find a place in Philly where you’ll feel secure coming home.

Is Philadelphia Safe for Renters?

Philadelphia’s overall safety profile is gradually improving in 2025. According to the latest data from the Philadelphia Police Department, citywide violent crime is down 9.96% year-to-date compared to the same period in 2024, while property crime has decreased by 8.25%. Despite this positive shift, Philadelphia still holds a C+ safety rating overall, which puts it roughly in the 40th percentile nationwide.

Neighborhood-level differences in crime rates, however, tell a more important story. While some areas closer to Center City continue to report higher rates of theft and vehicle break-ins, residential pockets in the northwest and far northeast, like Chestnut Hill and Pennypack, maintain significantly lower crime rates.

The city has also invested in new safety initiatives, including expanded Safe Routes Philly programs near schools, and targeted foot patrols in high-traffic commercial zones. But renters should rely on hyperlocal data when apartment hunting. Citywide averages don’t reflect the sharp contrasts between neighborhoods, and that’s where our guide can help.

Philadelphia Crime Trends in 2025

• Violent crime is down 9.96% year-to-date in 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with 312 fewer assaults and robberies reported across the city
• Property crime has declined 8.25% YTD, with roughly 580 fewer incidents of theft, burglary, and auto break-ins reported citywide.
• The estimated cost of crime per resident in Philadelphia is approximately [$401 per resident per year,](https://crimegrade.org/safest-places-in-philadelphia-pa/\) about $63 less than the national average (source: CrimeGrade.org, 2025).
• Analysts forecast continued declines into late 2025, citing targeted patrol expansion, increased surveillance in commercial corridors, and new neighborhood-based anti-violence programs.

Philadelphia’s 2025 crime index is 38 (on a 0–100 scale), meaning it’s safer than 38% of U.S. cities, an improvement over 2024’s index of 35.

Violent vs. Property Crime Breakdown

Theft is driving a large portion of property crime in Philadelphia, currently over 10.96 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 prioritizing peace of mind, several Philadelphia neighborhoods report crime rates well below city averages, making them top picks for 2025. While Philadelphia’s total crime rate sits at roughly 23.58 incidents per 1,000 residents, some standout areas come in far lower on both violent and property offenses.

Chestnut Hill, for example, posts much lower individual reports of violent and property crime. Residents credit its proximity to green space and active neighborhood watch groups. It’s popular with families and retirees seeking walkable parks, quiet streets, and abundant parking.

Bella Vista, closer to Center City, maintains individual crime rates below the citywide average, despite its more central location. A strong civic association and community events like the Italian Market Festival contribute to a safer, more active environment. It’s a great choice for renters who want walkability and access to nightlife without sacrificing security.

How We Identified Philadelphia’s Safest Neighborhoods

To pinpoint the safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia for renters in 2025, we combined current crime data with verified rent prices and neighborhood-level livability stats. This approach ensures each recommendation balances day-to-day security with affordability and quality of life.

We focused on violent and property crime rates per 1,000 residents, comparing them against both citywide and national benchmarks. This per-capita lens helps capture how safe neighborhoods truly feel, not just raw incident totals. Using 2025 Apartment List rent estimates, we then filtered for areas that offer relative safety without breaking the budget.

Finally, we factored in Walk Score, proximity to transit, and public school ratings, where applicable. From quiet residential pockets to more centrally located options, this list is backed by hard data, so you can confidently explore the safest places to live in Philadelphia this year.

Data Sources and Time Frames

Our rankings for the safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia for renters in 2025 are backed by verified, multi-source data:

• Philadelphia Police Department Open Data Portal (Jan 2024 – Jun 2025)
• FBI NIBRS Crime Data (Finalized 2023 stats)
• Apartment List Rent Estimates (Q2 2025, based on 6,000+ active listings)
• U.S. Census American Community Survey (2024 population estimates)

This dataset reflects the most current safety and housing conditions to help renters make informed decisions.

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

Each neighborhood was scored using the following weighted criteria:

|Commute|10%|Average peak-hour transit or drive time to City Hall — shorter = better.|

Crime-to-Rent Ratio Explained

The crime-to-rent ratio compares how many reported crimes occur per $1,000 of annual rent, helping you measure both affordability and safety in one metric. A lower ratio means you’re getting more safety for every dollar you spend on housing.

Let’s say a Philadelphia neighborhood sees 175 reported crimes per year, and the average one-bedroom rent is $1,200/month (or $14,400/year). That puts the crime-to-rent ratio at 12.15 crimes per $1,000 of rent.

This ratio is especially useful for cost-conscious renters who want more than just a cheap place or the safest ZIP code.

9 Safest Philadelphia Neighborhoods for Renters

Looking for a secure place to rent in Philadelphia? These nine neighborhoods rank highest for safety based on 2025 data covering violent and property crime rates. Each offers a strong combination of lower-than-average crime, renter-accessible pricing, and community features like walkability, green space, and local patrol efforts.

Chestnut Hill - Historic Charm, Low Risk

• Violent Crime: [2.260/1,000](https://crimegrade.org/violent-crime-chestnut-hill-philadelphia-pa/\)
• Property Crime: 14.52/1,000
• Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,625
• Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 0.86

Tucked into Northwest Philadelphia, Chestnut Hill feels almost suburban, with tree-lined avenues, independent bookstores, and one of the city’s best weekend farmer’s markets. Despite its village-like charm, you’re just a 30-minute regional rail ride from Center City.

Safety is a standout here: violent crime sits at just 2.26 per 1,000 residents, well below the city average, and property crime is modest at 14.52 per 1,000. That low risk pairs well with its average rent of $1,625, making the crime-to-rent ratio one of the city’s best. Top-rated schools, the sprawling Wissahickon trails, and Germantown Avenue’s shops make it an easy pick for professionals and families seeking security without leaving the city limits.

Bella Vista - Food-Forward and Family-Safe

• Violent Crime: 3.156/1,000
• Property Crime: 20.49/1,000
• Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,700
• Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 1.16

Bella Vista delivers walkable blocks and food-loving energy with a lower-than-average violent crime rate of 3.156 per 1,000 residents. Italian Market runs through the center, and nearby playgrounds like Palumbo Park keep it kid-friendly. The neighborhood sits close to South Street and offers strong walk and bike scores, making car-free living easy.

Rent for a one-bedroom averages $1,700, giving it a crime-to-rent ratio that remains favorable given the central location. A mix of long-term residents and young professionals gives Bella Vista a community-oriented rhythm that still feels connected to downtown.

Somerton - Quiet, Commuter-Friendly, and Affordable

• Violent Crime: 1.887/1,000
• Property Crime: 12.37/1,000
• Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,428
• Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 0.83

Tucked into the city’s northeast edge, Somerton is one of Philadelphia’s safest areas, with a violent crime rate of just 1.887 per 1,000 residents. Property crime is also well below average, and transit access via SEPTA’s West Trenton Line makes commutes to Center City doable.

One-bedroom rent hovers around $1,428, yielding one of the strongest crime-to-rent ratios on this list. While nightlife is limited, the area offers a calm pace, spacious rentals, and family-forward amenities like playgrounds and rec centers.

South Philadelphia West - Classic Rowhomes, Growing Safety

• Violent Crime: 3.240/1,000
• Property Crime: 16.57/1,000
• Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,425
• Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 1.16

With a violent crime rate of 3.24 per 1,000 and improving property stats, South Philadelphia West is on the rise. Tree-lined streets filled with rowhomes and small shops give it a lived-in feel. Renters pay about $1,425 for a one-bedroom, low for a neighborhood with relatively balanced safety and transit access to Center City via the Broad Street Line.

While parking can be tight, South Philadelphia West’s affordability and sense of continuity make it a go-to for working-class renters seeking long-term roots.

Fairmount - Green, Central, and Low-Crime

• Violent Crime: 2.129/1,000
• Property Crime: 18.45/1,000
• Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,649
• Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 1.04

Just north of Center City, Fairmount offers one of the most balanced safety profiles in Philly, at 2.129 violent crimes and 18.45 property crimes per 1,000 residents. Its proximity to the Art Museum and Schuylkill River Trail make it a weekend-ready spot for renters who value access to the outdoors.

Walk Score hovers in the low 90s, and the commute downtown is under 15 minutes. One-bedroom rent averages $1,649. While parking and late-night options are limited, Fairmount is a favorite for renters looking for a secure, green, and grounded home base.

East Falls - Transit Access with a Suburban Feel

• Violent Crime: 3.092/1,000
• Property Crime: 20.52//1,000
• Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,788
• Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 1.10

With a 3.092 violent crime rate and easy access to SEPTA’s regional rail lines, East Falls is a practical choice for commuters and remote workers alike. Walkable pockets around Ridge Avenue offer cafés and bike-friendly paths, while nearby Fairmount Park offers greenery in every direction.

One-bedroom rent clocks in at $1,788, and while walkability is decent, it’s the safety-to-amenity trade-off that seals the deal for many. It's a middle ground between urban and residential.

East Oak Lane - Budget-Friendly and Relatively Safe

• Violent Crime: 3.578/1,000
• Property Crime: 15.74/1,000
• Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,115
• Crime-to-Rent Ratio:1.44

East Oak Lane is an underrated pick for renters looking for safety on a budget. With a 3.578 violent crime rate. lower than the city average, and average rent of just $1,115 for a one-bedroom, it offers rare affordability.

Tree coverage, a residential layout, and access to the Fern Rock Transit Center make it functional for commuters. Dining and nightlife are limited, but for families and solo renters looking for peace and quiet, it checks key boxes.

West Mount Airy - Leafy Streets and Low Risk

• Violent Crime: 3.030/1,000
• Property Crime: 14.39/1,000
• Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,416
• Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 1.03

Known for its mid-century architecture and integrated community feel, West Mount Airy has long been considered one of Philly’s more tranquil pockets. With just over 3.03 violent crimes per 1,000 residents and modest rent of $1,416, the safety-value ratio is strong.

The neighborhood’s proximity to Wissahickon trails makes it great for renters who appreciate nature without leaving the city limits. Limited transit frequency can slow commutes, but the calm and character win out for many.

Manayunk - Young Energy, Safe Blocks

• Violent Crime: 2.555/1,000
• Property Crime: 16.36/1,000
• Average One-Bedroom Rent: $1,284
• Crime-to-Rent Ratio: 1.23

Manayunk blends suburban safety with a youthful edge. Its 2.555 violent crime rate and moderate rent ($1,284 for a one-bedroom) give it a strong crime-to-cost ratio. The Main Street strip brings dining, boutique gyms, and nightlife into one riverside stretch, while SEPTA’s regional rail makes Center City a 20-minute ride.

The hills can be a workout, and parking is competitive, but renters who want safety with social options find Manayunk a reliable pick.

Neighborhood Comparison: Crime, Rent, Commute at a Glance

Average rent differences across ranked neighborhoods

Among the safest Philadelphia neighborhoods, rent varies widely. One-bedroom units in Chestnut Hill average around $1,625, while Manayunk and East Oak Lane offer more budget-friendly options closer to $1,115–$1,284. That’s a monthly difference of over $500, even though all three areas score well for safety and livability.

Higher rent doesn’t always mean lower crime, either. While some pricier areas like Fairmount and Bella Vista benefit from active community patrols and better lighting, several mid-priced neighborhoods, like Somerton and West Mount Airy, deliver strong safety numbers without premium pricing.

Average commute time to Center City and University City

We calculated 2025 average commute times from each featured Philadelphia neighborhood to two of the city’s major employment hubs: Center City and University City. Driving times reflect typical weekday traffic between 8:00–9:30 a.m., while public transit estimates are based on official SEPTA route data.

From Chestnut Hill

• Center City (via car) - 40 minutes
• Center City (via public transit) - 54 minutes
• University City (via car) - 40 minutes
• University City (via public transit) - 1 hour and 25 minutes

From Bella Vista

• Center City (via car) - 9 minutes
• Center City (via public transit) - 13 minutes
• University City (via car) - 16 minutes
• University City (via public transit) - 36 minutes

From Somerton

• Center City (via car) - 50 minutes
• Center City (via public transit) - 1 hour and 13 minutes
• University City (via car) - 1 hour
• University City (via public transit) - 1 hour and 25 minutes

From South Philadelphia West

• Center City (via car) - 24 minutes
• Center City (via public transit) - 37 minutes
• University City (via car) - 16 minutes
• University City (via public transit) - 35 minutes

From South Fairmount

• Center City (via car) - 12 minutes
• Center City (via public transit) - 19 minutes
• University City (via car) - 16 minutes
• University City (via public transit) - 31 minutes

From East Falls

• Center City (via car) - 26 minutes
• Center City (via public transit) - 26 minutes
• University City (via car) - 22 minutes
• University City (via public transit) - 48 minutes

From East Oak Lane

• Center City (via car) - 40 minutes
• Center City (via public transit) - 50 minutes
• University City (via car) - 40 minutes
• University City (via public transit) - 1 hour and 2 minutes

From West Mount Airy

• Center City (via car) - 35 minutes
• Center City (via public transit) - 56 minutes
• University City (via car) - 35 minutes
• University City (via public transit) - 1 hour and 14 minutes

From Manayunk

• Center City (via car) - 30 minutes
• Center City (via public transit) - 29 minutes
• University City (via car) - 28 minutes
• University City (via public transit) - 51 minutes

Choosing the Right Safe Neighborhood for Your Lifestyle

Safety means different things to different renters. While some prioritize quiet blocks with family appeal, others want nightlife, walkability, or close proximity to work and transit. The good news is that Philadelphia offers neighborhoods that deliver security and convenience—if you know what to look for.

Transit-friendly yet safe areas for car-free living

If you’re living without a car, you’ll want a neighborhood with both strong safety stats and reliable access to SEPTA:

• Fairmount – Walk Score: 91 \ Transit Options: Broad Street Line, multiple bus routes, Indego bike share
• Bella Vista – Walk Score: 97 \ Transit Options: SEPTA Route 47, Broad Street Line access nearby
• West Mount Airy – Walk Score: 83 \ Transit Options: Chestnut Hill West Regional Rail, Route H bus, nearby bike paths

All three neighborhoods offer a solid mix of foot-friendly infrastructure, lighting, and transit connections. Bonus: areas like West Mount Airy and Bella Vista also support first-last-mile travel, with Indego docks and growing e-scooter coverage.

Up-and-coming affordable pockets to watch

Want a lower rent without compromising peace of mind? These Philadelphia neighborhoods are showing strong safety improvements and cultural investment:

• Brewerytown: A former industrial pocket now filled with new apartments, retail, and reduced crime in recent years
• Old Kensington: Steady rent growth, new construction, and a community push for lighting and patrols
• East Falls: Ongoing mixed-use development along Ridge Avenue, with violent crime rates below the city average

What to look for:

• New apartment or mixed-use projects (residential + retail)
• Declining three-year crime trends based on PPD data
• Investments in safety lighting and local patrol initiatives

Check the block before you sign

Even in high-rated neighborhoods, safety can vary street by street. Before you sign a lease, make sure to:

1. Plug the address into the Philadelphia Police Department Crime Map for incident reports
2. Search platforms like Nextdoor or Citizen to see recent activity
3. Visit at different times of day, especially at night, to check lighting, foot traffic, and street conditions
4. Ask landlords about security features like doorbell cameras, deadbolts, and whether there have been any recent building upgrades

Doing your homework now ensures a safer, more confident move, whether you're headed to a leafy residential corner or a lively, central apartment building.

How Apartment List’s Quiz Matches You Faster

Apartment List’s AI-powered quiz takes less than 90 seconds and uses your preferences, like commute needs, price range, and safety concerns, to serve up personalized, secure listings that fit your lifestyle. It’s built to help you skip the scrolling and start leasing smarter.

Take the quiz and see your matches today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Philadelphia’s Safest Neighborhoods

Which Safe Philadelphia Neighborhoods Offer the Lowest Average Rent?

Pennypack and Somerton lead the pack for renters seeking both affordability and peace of mind, both neighborhoods post one-bedroom rents under $1,450 and violent-crime rates well below the city average.

Are There Safe Areas Close to Center City?

Yes, Fairmount and Bella Vista both offer central access with lower-than-average crime, walkable streets, and solid public transit options for easy commuting.

How Current Is the Crime Data in This Guide?

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

What Online Tools Help Monitor Neighborhood Safety in Philly?

Use the Philadelphia Police crime map, the Citizen app, and SpotCrime to track neighborhood-specific incidents before signing a lease.

Which Safe Philadelphia Neighborhoods Have the Quickest Commutes?

East Falls, Fairmount, and Brewerytown offer quick transit times to Center City—typically under 20 minutes—alongside relatively low crime rates and strong walkability.

Do Safety Levels Change After Dark?

Yes—while most neighborhoods see a rise in property crime after sundown, areas like Chestnut Hill and Manayunk maintain more consistent safety round-the-clock, supported by community patrols and active business corridors.

How Can I Check Safety for a Specific Apartment Block?

Plug the address into the Philadelphia Police crime map or Citizen app to view recent reports within a 0.1-mile radius, or visit the area at night to assess lighting and foot traffic firsthand.

What Security Features Should Renters Look For?

Smart locks, motion-sensor lights, and video doorbells are increasingly common in upgraded rentals, and can help deter theft while lowering your renters insurance premium.