Columbus, Ohio, is a nice place to live with a dynamic and diverse culture. With a growing population of over 900,000, it is also known for its safe neighborhoods.
Everyone wants a safe place to call home, right? Columbus has a bunch of different neighborhoods, each with its own feel and safety record.
We’re talking family-friendly areas, peaceful spots, and everything in between.
Here’s the scoop on the safest neighborhoods in Columbus, OH, to help you figure out where you might want to set up shop.
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Top 12 Safest Areas In Columbus Area
Here are the best places to live or visit in Columbus, Ohio:
- Grandview Heights
- Powell
- New Albany
- Clintonville
- Hilliard
- Harrison West
- Victorian Village
- Italian Village
- Brewery District
- Dublin
- Westerville
- Bexley
Grandview Heights
Grandview Heights is a small, upscale neighborhood outside downtown Columbus, Ohio. The community has a population of 8,099 and is known for being close-knit and friendly, with residents of all ages. One of the main draws of this neighborhood is its safety, with a crime rate 2.1 times smaller than the U.S. average.
Grandview Heights has excellent schools. Here you will find a variety of restaurants and shops, as well as several parks for outdoor activities.
Powell
Powell, situated in the northern part of Columbus, Ohio, stands out for its top-notch schools and close-knit community vibe.
The area is known for local events and activities that foster a safe and welcoming atmosphere.
New Albany
A planned community that places a high emphasis on aesthetics as well as safety, New Albany features well-kept public spaces and vigilant neighborhood watch programs.
Located northeast of Columbus, the area is synonymous with luxury and quality living. Known for its Georgian architecture, brick-lined streets, and white picket fences, the community exudes an old-world charm that is both inviting and exclusive.
Families flock to New Albany for its top-tier schools and an array of parks and walking trails that provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
Clintonville
Clintonville is a charming and family-friendly neighborhood located in north-central Columbus, Ohio.
The neighborhood has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s and boasts several historic landmarks, including the Whetstone Park of Roses and the Park of Roses Rose Garden.
Clintonville is known for its laid-back cafes, gastropubs, and indie shops selling records and locally-made crafts, which adds to the neighborhood’s unique character.
With a population of 17,564, Clintonville is a safe, affordable, and easily accessible place to live. The neighborhood has a crime rate 37 percent lower than the national average and is safer than 95 percent of Ohio cities.
Families with children can take advantage of the excellent schools in the neighborhood, such as Clintonville Academy and Dominion Middle School.
Clintonville also has plenty of outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy. The neighborhood has several parks, including Whetstone Park, which has bike paths, tennis courts, and a community center.
Here, residents can enjoy a variety of dining options, from local favorites like Hoyo’s Kitchen and the Crest Gastropub to national chains like Panera Bread.
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Hilliard
This family-friendly neighborhood is known for its excellent schools and active community, both of which contribute to its safety.
It’s a haven for those who appreciate both nature and community events, with numerous parks, recreational areas, and annual festivals that bring residents together. The Hilliard Arts Council and the Historical Village are testaments to the area’s commitment to culture and history.
Sports and fitness enthusiasts will find Hilliard particularly appealing, thanks to the availability of gyms, sports complexes, and golf courses.
Harrison West
Harrison West is a charming historic neighborhood in Columbus, Ohio, with approximately 2,856 residents. This urban neighborhood is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, historic homes, and vibrant community.
One of the standout features of Harrison West is its commitment to creating a welcoming and safe environment for all residents. Crime rates in the area are impressively low, with violent crime rates being 43% lower than the national average.
Harrison West has several excellent schools, including the Columbus City Schools system. Additionally, the area boasts many restaurants, cafes, and parks, making it an ideal location for families and young professionals.
The community is known for its strong camaraderie, with residents regularly coming together to beautify the area, support local businesses, and host events.
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Victorian Village
The Victorian Village neighborhoods in Columbus, Ohio, are renowned for their picturesque, tree-lined streets flanked by beautiful homes, such as Gothic Revival mansions, Second Empire villas, and Queen Anne houses.
This neighborhood has a population of 4,157 and is considered safe, quiet, and stunning, making it an excellent option for families or young professionals seeking a peaceful urban lifestyle.
Victorian Village is safer than 97 percent of neighborhoods in Ohio, with only 1,551 crimes for every 100,000 people. An area is also a fantastic option for bicycle commuters, with dedicated bike lanes and numerous parks for outdoor activities. The neighborhood’s schools are excellent, and numerous restaurants cater to various tastes.
Italian Village
Italian Village is a historic neighborhood located just north of downtown Columbus, Ohio. Established in 1862, it contains a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
The neighborhood draws foodies to its bakery-cafes, inventive pizzerias, and casual diners. Italian Village is considered a safe and walkable neighborhood full of culture.
The crime rate in Italian Village is well below the national average, with a total crime rate of 1,474 per 100k people. The neighborhood has decent walking areas, although there is limited grass around apartment buildings. Italian Village has a population of 564, and the neighborhood is home to several excellent schools.
Italian Village is known for its many parks and green spaces, including Italian Village Park, which features a playground, basketball court, and plenty of open space. The neighborhood is also home to several excellent restaurants, including The Market Italian Village, Cosecha Cocina, and The Rossi.
Brewery District
The Brewery District in Columbus, Ohio, is a historic neighborhood with a rich cultural heritage that dates back to the late 1800s.
The area was initially known as the Old German Brewing District and played a significant role in the city’s beer-making industry.
The neighborhood has various entertainment options, including bars, restaurants where they cook in front of you, and music venues. The district also features a winery and beautifully restored Victorian-era architecture. The Brewery District is known for its lively nightlife and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Despite its reputation as a lively entertainment district, the Brewery District is a safe and secure neighborhood. It has a relatively low crime rate, making residents feel comfortable and secure.
Dublin
Dublin is a bustling suburb on the northwest edge of Columbus, Ohio, widely known for its excellent school system and strong job market.
The area is home to the annual Dublin Irish Festival, one of the country’s largest Irish cultural events, which adds a unique flavor to the community.
Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate the presence of several high-quality courses, including the renowned Muirfield Village Golf Club.
Westerville
Westerville’s got that old-school charm but with all the modern stuff you need. It’s got a cool downtown with shops and places to hang out, lots of parks, and some of the best schools around.
It’s pretty much got everything for families or anyone who loves a tight-knit community vibe.
Bexley
In Bexley, everyone seems to know each other. It’s all about community and good living. You’ve got parks, a top-notch library, and lots of local events.
The schools are great, and people care about keeping the neighborhood nice and friendly. It’s the kind of place where neighbors become friends.
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