Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a parent looking for a peaceful place to raise kids, or a professional relocating to the city, neighborhood safety is often one of the top priorities. Pittsburgh has a well-earned reputation as a livable, community-driven city, and many of its neighborhoods stand out for their low crime rates and strong sense of community.
In this article, we highlight some of the safest places to live in Pittsburgh based on available public crime data and resident feedback.
Related: Pittsburgh Crime Rate Statistics
How We Identified Pittsburgh’s Safest Neighborhoods
These selections are based on crime statistics from the FBI Crime Data Explorer, reports from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and safety rankings from local analysis sites like NeighborhoodScout and AreaVibes. We also considered community engagement, lighting, walkability, and overall resident sentiment.
While no neighborhood is completely free of crime, the following areas consistently rank among the lowest in reported incidents and are often praised for their safety-focused community culture.
Top 5 Safest Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh
Squirrel Hill (North & South)
Squirrel Hill is a longtime favorite for families, retirees, and students due to its walkability, excellent schools, and strong community groups. Located east of downtown Pittsburgh, Squirrel Hill borders Oakland to the west and Point Breeze to the north, placing residents just minutes from major cultural landmarks like Carnegie Mellon University and Schenley Park. According to 2024 data from AreaVibes, Squirrel Hill North’s violent crime rate is approximately 146 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 60% lower than the Pittsburgh average and significantly below the national average. Property crime rates in the neighborhood are similarly low, reinforcing its reputation as one of the safest areas in the city.
Regent Square
Regent Square is a charming, small neighborhood bordering Frick Park, celebrated for its tight-knit community and strong sense of safety. Regent Square sits near Edgewood and Swissvale, offering convenient access to Frick Park trails and the bustling Squirrel Hill and Point Breeze neighborhoods. With a population of about 4,000 residents, its violent crime rate is approximately 146 incidents per 100,000 people, less than half the rate for Pittsburgh overall, while property crime also stays well below city and national averages. These figures reflect crime rates about 50% lower than national averages, making Regent Square a secure and attractive area for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The neighborhood’s proximity to green space and multiple well-regarded schools further enhances its appeal as a livable and safe Pittsburgh area.
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Shadyside
Shadyside is a vibrant neighborhood popular with young professionals, known for its lively social scene alongside a secure living environment. Located adjacent to Oakland and Bloomfield, Shadyside provides easy access to major hospitals, universities, and the cultural amenities of the East End. Its main business corridors benefit from active community patrols and high foot traffic, both factors that contribute to lower crime rates. According to 2024 crime statistics, Shadyside reports noticeably lower theft, burglary, and violent crime numbers compared to nearby Oakland, which experiences more incidents partly due to its proximity to the university. The neighborhood’s combination of walkability and safety supports a high quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Point Breeze
Point Breeze offers a suburban atmosphere within the city limits, characterized by wide streets and large yards that contribute to its quiet and safe reputation. Nestled between Squirrel Hill, Homewood, and Regent Square, Point Breeze lies near Frick Park and the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, providing both tranquility and convenient city access. Recent crime data from 2024 shows that violent crime rates in Point Breeze are significantly lower than the Pittsburgh city average, supporting its consistent ranking as one of the safest Pittsburgh neighborhoods. Property crime numbers also remain relatively low here, making it a favored choice for residents seeking safety and community within the urban core.
Highland Park
Highland Park is a well-regarded and safe neighborhood located northeast of downtown Pittsburgh. Positioned north of East Liberty and Larimer, Highland Park is just a short drive from the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium and offers quick access to the Allegheny River trails. It offers residents abundant green spaces, including the sizable Highland Park itself, which serves as a popular community hub for outdoor activities and events. According to recent crime data, Highland Park’s total crime rate is estimated at around 1,012 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is less than half of Pittsburgh’s citywide rate of approximately 2,530 per 100,000. Violent crime in Highland Park is notably low at 146 incidents per 100,000 compared to the city average of 365, while property crime is also significantly below average at 866 incidents per 100,000. The neighborhood’s B+ crime grade reflects strong community involvement and an active local police presence, which together contribute to a secure and family-friendly environment.
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 Keeping a Safe Neighborhood Safe
Even in low-crime areas, staying vigilant helps preserve that sense of security. Here are some everyday habits that 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 311 Response Center or your local precinct
Neighborhood safety is strongest when residents work together and stay informed.
For You: Neighborhood Watch in Pittsburgh: How to Get Involved
How Guardian Protection Can Help
If you live in one of Pittsburgh’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 Point Breeze or Shadyside, our systems are designed to fit your lifestyle and your neighborhood’s needs.
Explore Guardian’s services in your area: Home Security in Pittsburgh
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
Neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill North, Point Breeze, and Regent Square are consistently ranked among the safest in Pittsburgh. These areas show violent crime rates significantly below the city and national averages, supported by strong community engagement and excellent amenities.
Yes. Shadyside generally reports fewer incidents of theft, burglary, and violent crime compared to nearby Oakland. This is partly due to Shadyside’s active business districts and community patrols, contributing to a more secure environment.
Many suburbs do report lower overall crime rates compared to Pittsburgh’s urban core. However, several Pittsburgh neighborhoods, particularly those recognized for safety and community cohesiveness, are just as safe or even safer than some suburban areas.
In neighborhoods with low crime rates, incidents typically involve occasional vehicle break-ins or minor vandalism. Violent crime is rare but not impossible anywhere, so vigilance and community action remain important.
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.