It is no secret that Cincinnati, fondly known as the Queen City, offers more than its Skyline Chili and a rich food scene.
The wealth of culture, history, and community that the Queen City boasts has endeared it to many brave enough to explore its veins. However, you may need this bravery for more than just exploring the city.
Like many urban areas, Cincinnati faces the challenges of a higher-than-average crime rate—surpassing both the Ohio state and national averages.
Matter-of-factly, Cincinnati is safer than only 3% of U.S. cities, with residents facing a 1 in 23 chance of falling victim to property crime. On average, there are about 2,416 theft crimes per 100,000 residents in Cincinnati, and this is only for one type of property crime.
Regardless, despite the steady climb in crime over recent years, certain neighborhoods stand out as beacons of safety for families and single individuals.
Let’s explore some of the safest neighborhoods in Cincinnati where you can escape the high crime incidents in the city.
- Hyde Park
If your radar zeroes in on Hyde Park, you have entered one of the safest areas in Cincinnati. It is exceptionally great for families and upscale living.
Not only are there charming squares, upscale boutiques, and serene residential streets, but this neighborhood is widely recognized as one of Cincinnati’s safest areas.
Its violent crime rate is 60% lower than the national average, and property crime is 40% lower. There are only about 13 crimes per 100 people, and these are mostly minor property crimes against violent crime.
Families and professionals flock to Hyde Park for its excellent schools and a strong sense of community.
- Population: 13,658
- Median Home Value: $410,000
- Taylor Creek
Located on Cincinnati’s west side, Taylor Creek is a quiet suburb with a small community of people who cherish the peaceful retreat from urban hustle.
This area experiences notably low crime rates, contributing to its reputation as one of the safest suburbs of Cincinnati to reside in. Violent crime here is 75% lower than the national average, and property crime is 40% lower.
The neighborhood’s rural charm and low population density contribute to its safety and appeal.
- Population: 2,500
- Median Home Value: $439,800
- Turpin Hills
Another suburb that Robinson Relocations in Cincinnati recommends for its safety and amenities is Turpin Hills.
This suburban enclave is not only celebrated for its lush green spaces and family-friendly ambiance. Above all, its crime rates are markedly lower than both state and national averages, making it also one of the safest neighborhoods in Cincinnati.
The violent crime rate is 70% lower than the national average, and property crime is 35% lower.
Pretty much, it feels like icing atop a cake when you consider the area’s known for its spacious homes, excellent schools, and proximity to nature, including the picturesque Little Miami River.
It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a suburban feel without straying too far from the city.
- Population: 5,315
- Median Home Value: $409,000
- Mount Lookout
Perched on one of Cincinnati’s picturesque hills, Mount Lookout protects its residents by keeping crime rates low. There are only about 14 crimes per 100 people in this neighborhood.
Its violent crime rate is 65% lower than the national average, and property crime is 30% lower. Compared to city averages, this is impressive.
While a lot of this can be attributed to the community’s proactive approach to safety, collaborations with law enforcement are significant in the low crime rate.
The neighborhood is famous for its iconic Mount Lookout Square, which features cozy cafes, bars, and stunning views of the city.
- Population: 6,161
- Median Home Value: $761,300
- Oakley
The more rural the neighborhood setting, the higher the tendency to be safe.
Oakley strikes a balance between urban convenience and suburban quiet. Yet, it maintains a strikingly low crime rate, lower than the Cincinnati average.
With a violent crime rate 50% lower than the national average and property crime 25% also low, Oakley is a safe bet for young professionals and families.
Its lively business district, Oakley Square, is a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Plus, the neighborhood also offers easy access to major highways, making it a commuter’s dream.
All these contribute to its appeal as one of the safest neighborhoods in Cincinnati.
- Population: 12,133
- Median Home Value: $376,000
- Kennedy Heights
As one of Cincinnati’s most diverse and historic neighborhoods, you should expect a potpourri of people here—they bring their unique culture and lifestyle.
However, despite the differences, crime in Kennedy Heights is at an all-time low, making it one of the safest places to live in Cincinnati.
With only about 21 crimes per 100 people, the violent crime rate is 55% lower than the national average, and property crime sits comfortably below 20%.
Crime rates in Kennedy Heights are lower than the city’s average, reflecting the community’s commitment to safety and collaboration.
Regular neighborhood events and a strong emphasis on arts and culture foster a cohesive and secure environment.
- Population: 4,275
- Median Home Value: $253,200
- Sayler Park
Although a riverside neighborhood on Cincinnati’s western edge, Sayler Park is not often mentioned among the city’s popular neighborhoods.
Known for its small-town feel and scenic views of the Ohio River, Sayler Park boasts crime rates significantly lower than both state and national averages.
The neighborhood records only about 13 crimes per 100 people, which brings its violent crime rate to about 60% lower than the national average and property crime to 40% lower.
Unsurprisingly, it is pretty clear why Sayler Park always sits amongst the top safest neighborhoods in Cincinnati.
- Population: 7,673
- Median Home Value: $293,900
- Mount Washington
Only about a 10-minute drive away from downtown Cincinnati, Mount Washington teems with a young population.
One would not be completely amiss to expect an increase in crime rates as a result. However, the reverse is the case. There are only about 18 crimes per 100 people in this neighborhood.
Its violent crime rate is 50% lower than the national average, and property crime is 25% also lower—making Mount Washington one of the safest neighborhoods in Cincinnati.
The community’s focus on local businesses, schools, and parks contributes to its overall safety and quality of life, attracting lots of students and young professionals.
- Population: 15,673
- Median Home Value: $267,600
Crime Comparison: Cincinnati vs. State and National Averages
To put things in perspective, Cincinnati’s violent crime rate is about 154% higher than the Ohio state average and 82% higher than the national average.
On the other hand, the property crime rate is approximately 153% higher than the state average and about 125% higher than the national average.
However, the neighborhoods listed above are outliers. They offer significantly lower crime rates and a higher quality of life.
| per 1,000 Residents | Cincinnati Median | Ohio Median | National Median |
| Violent Crime | 7.28 | 2.87 | 4.0 |
| Property Crime | 42.78 | 16.92 | 19.0 |
In Summary
Cincinnati’s overall crime rate may be higher than desired, but the city is home to some of the area’s safest and most welcoming neighborhoods.
Neighborhoods like Hyde Park, Sayler Park, and Turpin Hills stand out impressively. Others include Mount Lookout, Oakley, Kennedy Heights, Taylor Creek, and Mount Washington.
Their lower crime statistics, active neighborhood associations, and community engagement make them the safest neighborhoods in Cincinnati and desirable places to call home in Queen City.
