A strong job market, affordable living costs, and a vibrant cultural scene make Dallas, Texas, a favorable place to live. The city also features a rich arts district, diverse neighborhoods, and a global food scene. Festivals, museums, and parks enhance social life and inclusivity for newcomers. Dallas also has some nice neighborhoods, many of which are on the more affordable end of the spectrum.
Here’s a look at some of the safest areas in and around Dallas, focusing primarily on city neighborhoods while also highlighting nearby communities known for low crime and strong resident engagement.
Safest Areas in and Around Dallas
These selections are based on crime statistics from the FBI Crime Data Explorer and safety rankings from local analysis sites like NeighborhoodScout and AreaVibes. We also considered community engagement, lighting, walkability, and resident sentiment. While no neighborhood is completely free of crime, the following areas in Dallas consistently rank among the lowest and are often praised for their safety-focused community cultures.
University Park
University Park is an affluent residential neighborhood positioned north of downtown Dallas. The area is known for its proximity to Southern Methodist University and strong community ties. University Park offers a sparse suburban feel with upscale homes, excellent schools, and low crime rates. With a reported 1,604 crimes per 100,000 people, University Park’s crime rate is 60% lower than that of Dallas in general. The area’s 24,259 residents also experience a 24% lower crime rate than the nation as a whole. University Park’s livability score of 74/100 is considered excellent. Homes range from Mediterranean and Georgian-style estates to cottages, often on half-acre lots, reflecting an upscale market popular among professionals and multi-generational families. The area ranks among Texas’s wealthiest by per capita income.
Highland Park
Highland Park, an affluent, independent enclave within Dallas, is renowned for its luxury homes, top schools, and family-oriented vibe. Multi-million-dollar estates dominate, featuring architectural styles like Colonial, Tudor, and Mediterranean, with median prices historically exceeding $1 million. Highland Park also offers a small-town feel with ready urban access. The neighborhood’s 8,797 residents enjoy tree-lined streets and manicured parks, which create a serene, walkable environment, featuring azalea blooms and holiday light displays. Highland Park’s crime rate is 60% lower than that of Dallas as a whole and 24% lower than the national average. The neighborhood is said to experience 1,604 crimes per 100,000 people. Its livability score is 69/100, which is considered good.
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West End Historic District
The West End Historic District, located in northwest downtown Dallas, blends heritage with innovation near Dealey Plaza. Restored one- to six-story brick structures dominate, with architectural details like corbelled cornices, arched windows, and pier elements. Many of these have been converted into shops, restaurants, offices, and apartments. The area includes widened, tree-lined sidewalks, open public spaces, and a central bricked Market Street with vintage lamps. Approximately 1,277 Dallasites reside in the West End Historic District, with a reported crime rate of 1,604 per 100,000 people. The area is also reported to experience 60% less crime than Dallas as a whole and 24% less than the national average. The district’s livability score of 84/100 is considered exceptional.
Main Street District
Dallas’ Main Street District is the city’s historic downtown core. The neighborhood features a compact residential population enjoying walkable urban amenities that foster a lively community atmosphere. Key attributes include its central location, connecting business and entertainment hubs. The neighborhood’s 1,106 residents enjoy its urban energy, which is blended with historic charm. The district’s crime rate is 1,604 per 100,000 people. This ranks it as having 60% less crime than Dallas as a whole, and 24% less than the national average. The neighborhood’s livability score of 86/100 is considered exceptional. Well-lit streets contribute to a safe, active feel despite the presence of a degree of urban grit.
Far North
Far North Dallas offers a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences. Residents enjoy family-friendly amenities, diverse housing, and easy access to highways. The neighborhood stands out for its blend of quiet living with convenient proximity to shopping, dining, and employment hubs. The area features a mix of ranch-style homes from the 1950s-60s, two-story houses from the 1970s-80s, modern builds, estate properties, and rentals, including luxury apartments. Home to some 160,928 Dallasites, the area’s crime rate of 2,541 per 100,000 people is 22% lower than that of Dallas as a whole. Far North Dallas’ crime rate is also 20% lower than the national average. The area’s livability score is considered excellent at 74/100. Upper-middle-income residents predominate, with a diverse population.
Plano (Suburb)
Located just north of Dallas, Plano is widely recognized as one of the safest cities in North Texas. The community benefits from strong schools, high homeownership rates, and an active police presence. Crime rates remain consistently lower than Dallas averages, particularly for violent crime. Master-planned neighborhoods, well-lit streets, and strong civic engagement contribute to Plano’s reputation as a safe, family-friendly place to live.
Richardson (Suburb)
Richardson, northeast of Dallas, combines suburban living with easy access to major employment centers. The city reports lower-than-average crime rates, supported by engaged residents, neighborhood associations, and proactive policing. Walkable neighborhoods, parks, and a stable housing market help maintain long-term safety.
What Makes These Neighborhoods Safer
While every part of the city has unique characteristics, the neighborhoods above tend to share several safety-positive traits:
- Active neighborhood associations and community events
- Higher levels of homeownership
- Better lighting and street visibility
- Access to parks, schools, and public services
- Residents who take initiative with watch programs or local communication
Local police departments also maintain a presence in many of these areas, further supporting public trust and responsiveness.
Best Practices for Maintaining Safety in Low-Crime Areas
Even in low-crime areas, staying vigilant helps preserve the sense of security. These everyday habits contribute to neighborhood safety:
- Keep porch lights and entryways well-lit at night
- Use motion-sensor lighting or camera doorbells
- Lock all doors and windows, even during the day
- Join or start a neighborhood watch
- Coordinate with neighbors via apps like Nextdoor or Citizen
- Report concerns quickly to iWatchDallas online, or phone 214.671.4500
Neighborhood safety is strongest when residents work together and stay informed.
FOR YOU: TOP NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH APPS
How Guardian Protection Can Help
If you live in one of Dallas, TX’s safer neighborhoods, you might not feel the same urgency around home security, but prevention is always better than reaction. Guardian Protection offers peace of mind that complements the environment you’ve chosen to live in.
Our smart home security options include:
- Indoor and outdoor security cameras with live mobile access
- Window and door sensors to detect intrusion
- Smart home control and mobile app management to keep you informed when you’re away
- 24/7 professional monitoring for rapid response
Whether you’re in University Park, Far North Dallas, or nearby communities around Dallas, our systems are designed to fit your lifestyle and your neighborhood’s needs.ds
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Building Peace of Mind at Home
Choosing a safe neighborhood is a smart move, but true peace of mind comes from knowing your home is protected, no matter what. Guardian Protection offers home security solutions that fit seamlessly into low-crime, community-focused areas.
Looking to reinforce your sense of safety? Get a free quote or call 800.857.5028 to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safest areas in and around Dallas?
Areas such as University Park, Highland Park, the West End Historic District, Far North Dallas, and nearby communities like Plano consistently rank among the safest areas in and around Dallas. These show violent crime rates significantly below the city and national averages, supported by strong community engagement and excellent amenities.
Are Dallas suburbs safer than the city?
Many suburbs do report lower overall crime rates, compared to Dallas’s urban core. However, several of the city’s neighborhoods, particularly those recognized for safety and community cohesiveness, are just as safe or even safer than some suburban areas.
What types of crime are most common in safer areas?
In neighborhoods with low crime rates, incidents typically involve occasional vehicle break-ins or minor vandalism. Violent crime is rare, but not impossible, so vigilance and community action remain important.
What makes neighborhoods like University Park and Highland Park safe?
Their safety comes from a combination of factors: active neighborhood associations, high homeownership rates, good street lighting, proximity to parks and schools, and engaged residents who participate in watch programs and communicate effectively with local police.
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