Pittsburgh, PA, population 303,000, is the 2nd most populated city in the state.
This historical city is known for its world-class universities, booming tech scene, popular sports teams, and more.
Pittsburgh is less than 200 miles from major cities like Cleveland, Buffalo, Washington DC, and Baltimore.
Affordable living, a strong economy, and a low crime rate of 226.8 incidents per 100K people make Pittsburgh a good place to call home.
If you’re planning a move to this fair city, you’ll want to know the safest neighborhoods in which to live.
Here are some prominent choices to help you get started.
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10 Safest Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh
While all cities have their share of crime, there are always havens of safety where you can raise a family.
Such is the case with Pittsburgh.
The following neighborhoods are some of the safest in the city:
1. Squirrel Hill
One of the safest and most popular neighborhoods in Pittsburgh is Squirrel Hill.
Squirrel Hill has a relatively low crime rate of 35 violent crimes and 421 property crimes per 100K people.
This makes Squirrel Hill 84% safer than other areas in the country.
Located in the eastern part of Pittsburgh, Squirrel Hill has a population of approximately 28,000 people.
The area is known for its greenery, attractive residences, superior schools, and thriving commercial district.
Squirrel Hill also houses two prestigious universities – Carnegie Mellon and Chatham University.
It’s easy to see why so many people choose to call this area home.
2. East Carnegie
East Carnegie, population 607, is another safe neighborhood in Pittsburgh worth exploring.
With only 209 violent and 299 property crimes per 100K people, the crime rate here is 78% lower than the U.S. average.
This is due in part to the community’s unified stance against crime.
The addition of new homes and businesses has infused new life into this area to enhance its overall appeal.
Large wooded areas and parks make this neighborhood conducive for walking, hiking, biking, and other outdoor fun.
Children can look forward to an excellent education from the Carlynton School District, known for its academic excellence.
3. Swisshelm Park
Speaking of education, Swisshelm Park in East Pittsburgh is home to some of the best schools in the city.
This includes Community Day School and Dickson Elementary STEAM Academy.
With a population of 1,206 people, Swisshelm Park’s low crime rate, green spaces, and quality schools make it a great place for families.
The crime rate in this area is 73% lower than the U.S. average.
Using I-376, Swisshelm Park residents can also easily commute to downtown Pittsburgh for work or relaxation.
4. Point Breeze
Point Breeze is a community that attracts families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
This safe, green, historic neighborhood has a crime rate that’s 54% below the U.S. average.
Violent crime incidents are only 95 per 100K people, while property crime incidents are around 984 per 100K.
Located in East Pittsburgh, Point Breeze has a population of approximately 5,570.
Residents enjoy such amenities as classy restaurants and bars, great schools, beautiful parks, low rentals, and more.
Westinghouse Park, the Henry Clay Frick House, and Mellon Park are just a few of the area’s local attractions.
5. Fairywood
Few neighborhoods in Pittsburgh have the beauty and charm of Fairywood in West Pittsburgh.
This community is known for its low crime rate, affordable housing, excellent schools, and lovely parks.
Fairywood has a population of about 4,875 residents, many of which are families.
Home styles range from split-level houses with shuttered windows to American Foursquares with covered porches for evening relaxation.
Gorgeous parks, playgrounds, and green spaces provide ample outdoor recreation and exercise space.
Residents can enjoy their favorite cuisine from a wide variety of local restaurants.
With a crime rate that’s 14% lower than the U.S. average, Fairywood is a good place to settle with your family.
6. Lawrenceville
Looking for a trendy Pittsburgh neighborhood with a safe, walkable business district?
Welcome to Lawrenceville!
Once an industrial center, Lawrenceville is a modern commercial hub featuring classy restaurants and bars, chic retail shops, the Clemente Museum, and more.
This area is popular with students due to its proximity to the U of Pittsburgh.
It’s also home to the UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, which offers job opportunities for young medical professionals.
Homes in this area range from historic rowhouses and bungalows to contemporary apartments and condos.
Lawrenceville offers a safe yet vibrant lifestyle for young professionals seeking a new home.
7. Regent Square
Regent Square is a safe, close-knit community located in East Pittsburgh.
Its low crime rate earned it an A+ rating on AreaVibes.com, with both violent and property crime being 50% below the national average.
With a population of roughly 3,000 people, this quaint Pittsburgh suburb was the top pick of Niche.com for the best place to raise a family.
The area is known for its tree-lined roads, well-kept homes, quality schools, and a charming downtown shopping district.
You can also visit Frick Park for hiking, biking, sports play, and more!
8. Highland Park
Highland Park is a historic, residential neighborhood situated in the northeastern part of Pittsburgh.
Its 6,400 residents are comprised of young professionals, retirees, and families.
Within this residential suburb is a beautiful 380-acre park with the same name.
This Park features scenic trails, playgrounds, a bike track, a swimming pool, the Pittsburgh Zoo, and PPG Aquarium.
Bryant Street is another popular hub where residents can visit local restaurants and eateries for national and international cuisine.
Due to a low crime rate, residents can enjoy their community’s amenities to the full.
A low crime rate, natural beauty, and diverse population make Highland Park an attractive place to call home.
9. Stanton Heights
Stanton Heights is one of the quieter suburbs in Pittsburgh, located on the eastern side of the city.
It has a population of 4,387, with many households living in single-family colonial homes.
Parents will find this area highly attractive for raising children due to its low crime rate, high sense of community, and quality schools.
The Butler Street shopping district is within easy walking distance and downtown Pittsburgh is but a short drive away.
The benefits of safety, affordable living, and tranquility can be yours by relocating to the Pittsburgh suburb of Stanton Heights.
10. Shadyside
Last, but not least, there’s Shadyside, a family-friendly neighborhood located in East Pittsburgh, close to the downtown area.
Shadyside has approximately 13,000 residents and a crime rate that’s 44% lower than the national average.
That’s good news for parents looking for a safe place to raise a family.
This walkable neighborhood features outdoor fun at Mellon Park, high-end shopping, and a vibrant bar scene for the young at heart.
Shadyside is also the home of Chatham University, Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, and the U of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Pittsburgh
Although Pittsburgh is a fairly safe city, you don’t want to take unnecessary chances when visiting this area.
These tips for visiting Steel City can help you travel safely:
- If you’re traveling by car, use a map or reliable GPS to safely navigate Pittsburgh’s numerous one-way streets and bridges.
- Unless you’re attending a specific concert or sports game, plan your visit for a time when no major event is taking place to avoid large crowds and the risk of theft.
- For greater security, travel in groups when dining out or visiting local bars and clubs.
- Research the areas you want to visit in advance to ensure they’re safe and easy to locate without getting lost.
- Choose reliable transportation like Uber or Lyft to get around the city safely if you’re not driving your car.
Pittsburgh Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Pittsburgh Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: LOW
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pittsburgh a safe place to raise a family?
There are numerous family-oriented neighborhoods in Pittsburgh where you can safely raise your children.
These low-crime areas come with lovely parks, safe playgrounds, quality schools, and comfortable housing suitable for families.
What neighborhoods are unsafe in Pittsburgh, PA?
Homewood, Terrace Village, the Hill District, West Oakland, and Northview Heights are some of the worst neighborhoods in Pittsburgh when it comes to crime.
Is Pittsburgh safe for tourists?
According to VisitPittsburgh.com, Pittsburgh is one of the safest cities to visit in the country.
It ranks first in safety for property crime and third for violent crime.
