Safest Areas in and Around Columbus

Whether you are moving to central Ohio, buying your first home, or seeking a peaceful place to raise a family, understanding neighborhood safety can help you feel confident about where you choose to live. Columbus is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, offering a mix of established communities, suburban comforts, and vibrant local districts. Many neighborhoods across the metro consistently rank high in safety, stability, and overall resident satisfaction.

In this guide, we highlight some of the safest areas in and around Columbus based on public crime data, neighborhood trends, and local feedback.

Related: Columbus Crime Rate Statistics

How We Identified Columbus’s Safest Neighborhoods

Our selections are based on long-term crime data from the Columbus Division of Police, comparative insights from the FBI Crime Data Explorer, and neighborhood-level safety scores from analysis platforms like NeighborhoodScout and AreaVibes. We also considered indirect safety indicators such as lighting, walkability, homeownership levels, school quality, and community involvement.

While no area is completely free of crime, the neighborhoods below consistently report lower-than-average incidents and maintain strong reputations for safety and livability.

Safest Areas in and Around Columbus

Dublin

Dublin is one of the most sought-after communities in central Ohio, known for its excellent schools, well-maintained neighborhoods, and strong civic engagement. The city offers miles of walking paths, parks, and recreation centers. Public crime data shows that Dublin has significantly lower rates of both violent and property crime than the Columbus city average. Its master-planned developments and active resident programs further support long-term stability.

Upper Arlington

Located just northwest of downtown Columbus, Upper Arlington is a highly desirable suburb known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and top-rated school district. Strong community services and an active police presence contribute to consistently low crime levels. The area’s well-maintained parks, libraries, and recreation centers make it especially appealing for families.

Powell

Powell is a small but thriving suburban community north of Columbus. Known for its quiet residential streets, family-friendly events, and strong school system, Powell consistently ranks among Ohio’s safest cities. Residents benefit from newer housing developments, high homeownership rates, and strong community oversight. Its calm environment and proximity to the Columbus Zoo make it a popular choice for long-term residents.

New Albany

New Albany is an upscale, master-planned community located northeast of Columbus. The area features beautiful trails, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community pride. Crime rates remain low thanks to active neighborhood associations, consistent development standards, and a strong municipal safety infrastructure. New Albany’s layout emphasizes visibility, connected streets, and well-designed public spaces.

Hilliard

Hilliard combines suburban convenience with a small-town feel. The area offers parks, community centers, and strong schools, all of which contribute to stable, low-crime neighborhoods. Hilliard also benefits from active neighborhood organizations and frequent community events, helping build a connected, engaged resident base.

Worthington (Honorable Mention)

Worthington deserves mention for its historic downtown, active civic organizations, and consistently low crime trends. As one of Columbus’s oldest suburbs, Worthington features strong community roots, stable housing, and well-lit, walkable neighborhoods.

Related: Most Dangerous Areas in and Around Columbus

What Makes These Neighborhoods Safer

Many of the safest areas in and around Columbus share similar safety-positive traits:

• Higher homeownership rates and long-term residents
  
• Strong neighborhood associations and communication channels
  
• Well-lit streets and walkable community layouts
  
• Proximity to quality schools, parks, and amenities
  
• Active police departments with community-focused programs
  
• Consistent investment in local infrastructure and development

These elements create a stable foundation that helps reduce crime and support a strong sense of community.

Best Practices for Keeping a Safe Neighborhood Safe

Even in low-crime areas, residents play an important role in maintaining safety and awareness. Helpful habits include:

• Keeping porches, driveways, and entryways illuminated
  
• Using video doorbells or outdoor cameras
  
• Locking all doors, windows, and vehicles
  
• Joining neighborhood watch programs or online forums
  
• Reporting concerns or suspicious behavior quickly
  
• Maintaining visibility with clear landscaping and open sightlines
  

Safe neighborhoods thrive when neighbors work together and stay informed.

For You: Top Neighborhood Watch Apps 

How Guardian Protection Can Help

Even in the safest Columbus neighborhoods, home security can add an important layer of protection. Guardian Protection offers smart home solutions that support your lifestyle and provide peace of mind day and night.

Our security systems include:

• Indoor and outdoor security cameras
  
• Door and window sensors
  
• Smart home control with mobile app management
  
• Professional monitoring for rapid assistance

Explore Guardian’s services in your area: Home Security in Columbus

Strengthening Peace of Mind at Home

Choosing a safe neighborhood is one of the most important decisions you can make for your home and family. Guardian Protection helps extend that peace of mind by providing reliable, easy-to-use home security systems designed to protect your property day and night.

Ready to enhance your home’s security? Get a free quote or call 800.857.5028 today.