Safest Neighborhoods in Washington DC

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

It’s fair to want to live in a safe neighborhood if you’re thinking about moving to Washington, DC. After all, safety is one of the most important things to consider when choosing where to live.

We put together a list of the safest neighborhoods in DC so you can spend less time looking. We pulled data from reputable sites like DC Crime map, Crime Cards Reports, Niche, and Crime Grade.

Top 7 Safest Neighborhoods in DC

• Georgetown 
• Woodley Park
• Cleveland Park
• Dupont Circle
• U-Street Corridor
• Adams Morgan
• Foggy Bottom

Least Safe DC Neighborhoods

Based on crime data, Wards 2 & 5 have the highest property crimes, while Wards 7 & 8 lead in violent crimes. Notably high-crime areas include Anacostia, Congress Heights, Benning Heights, Ivy City, and Deanwood.

1. Georgetown – The Historical Safe Haven

Georgetown is mostly a residential neighborhood, with most houses being single-family homes. It is an affluent area with many restaurants, shops, and bars in the area. 

Georgetown is one of the safest neighborhoods to live in Washington DC. According to Very Apt, it has a safety score of 100, a safety range of 90-100, and a lower-than-average crime rate. This neighborhood is safer than 73% of US cities, with a 1 in 1,268 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime.

Besides its low crime rate, it is also home to many notable landmarks and institutions, including Georgetown University, Dumbarton Oaks House and Gardens, Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection, and the Woodrow Wilson House. Georgetown also has many restaurants, bars, parks, and coffee shops, making it more attractive to live in.

2. Woodley Park – A Green and Secure Community

Woodley Park is an upscale, mostly residential neighborhood located northwest of Washington DC. It borders Connecticut Avenue, Rock Creek Park, and Mt. St Albans to the west. The neighborhood is home to the Omni Shoreham Hotel, popular for hosting presidential inaugural balls, and the National Zoo.

Woodley Park is a very safe neighborhood, with the total crime rate being 7% lower, violent crimes 50% lower than the national average, and safer than 79% of other DC neighborhoods. 

If you’re considering moving to DC, there are plenty of apartments to rent in Woodley Park. Commuting to work is easy through the Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan metro station, a short distance away, or the several bus lines that run in the neighborhood. 

There are plenty of restaurants and bars offering unique dining experiences. Pass by Baked by Yael for tasty gluten-free pastries and bagels; Open City’s patio is your go-to Sunday brunch spot, and Han Palace for contemporary Chinese dishes, seafood, and dim sum.

Woodley Park’s streets are quiet and peaceful. Though there’s occasional burglary or break-in, it is more peaceful than most areas in DC.

3. Cleveland Park – Combining Modernity with Peacefulness

Cleveland Park is one of the safest and best neighborhoods in DC. It is located northwest of DC and bounded by Wisconsin Avenue to the west, Rock Creek Park to the east, Tilden and Rodman streets to the north, and Woodley Road to the south.

It is a walking distance to the grocery stores, the metro, the Zoo, and beautiful bars and restaurants on Connecticut Avenue. You will love this area as it’s a quiet, family-friendly, and safe neighborhood. 

Cleveland’s crime rate is 33% lower than the national average. Additionally, violent and property crimes are 68% and 26% lower than the national average, respectively. If you live in Cleveland Park, you have a 1 in 64 chance of becoming a crime victim, which is safer than 88% of other areas in DC.

Although located on the metro, Cleveland Park is a quiet enclave with minimal city vibes. It has beautiful historic homes, parks, tree-lined sidewalks, and plenty of amenities like Cleveland Park Public Library, Cleveland Park, and close proximity to the Ballet and the Zoo.

Pop into Siam House for Thai specials and standbys, Indique for delicious traditional Indian cuisines, and enjoy house-made pasta and cooking classes at Trattoria Al Volo in Cleveland Park.

4. Dupont Circle – An Iconic Secure District

Dupont Circle is a vibrant, eclectic neighborhood that offers something for everyone. Whether it’s stylish bistros or bookstore shopping, you’ll find it here. Additionally, it’s one of the safest and best neighborhoods for young professionals in Washington DC.

This neighborhood has been home to several presidents and hosts several historic tourist spots and foreign embassies. Consequently, it boasts of cultural diversity reflected in its attractive art and vibrant food scene. Due to frequent tourist visits, the area has frequent patrols by police officers, making it 26% safer than other places in DC.

Apart from its safety, you will love the atmosphere here. There are dozens of beautiful bars, restaurants, bistros, museums, and a vibrant 17th Street popular for gay-owned businesses. Artsy folks have several galleries to hop from on First Friday Dupont.

For foodies, the Dupont Circle Sunday farmers’ market is open year-round; stop by for artisan cheeses, baked goods, organic fruits and vegetables, fresh pasta, and more. For date nights and dinner spots, choose from Micheline-starred restaurants like Sushi Taro to farm-to-table options by The Pembroke. There’s also a variety of drinking spots, including rooftop and cocktail bars.

Apartments for rent in Dupont Circle are plenty, and commuting to work is easy through the Red Line at Dupont Circle metro station. It’s also one of the most walkable areas in DC and has numerous trails for walking, jogging, and biking.

5. U-Street Corridor – The Revamped Safe Spot

U-street Corridor is a lively and vibrant neighborhood, once the home of the largest African-American community in the nation and celebrated jazz musician Duke Ellington. Once a center of art and civil rights, it has a rich history and diverse culture.

Today, it’s still vibrant, with many places to see. It’s also one of the safest areas in DC and is close to grocery stores, coffee shops, parks, and restaurants.

U-Street Corridor is the center of DC’s nightlife, a bustling area that never sleeps. There are endless bars, nightclubs, and entertainment options, earning its rightful place for showcasing DC’s cultural scene, from food to art, music, and activism.

From live music on the street to underground Music Hall, the U-Street Corridor is where you groove to live music. Enjoy a unique culinary experience at several Ethiopian restaurants or taste the signature half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl. Check out El Rey and DC9 Nightclub, your go-to spots for the best nachos and happy hour drinks, respectively.

Public transport is easily available through the Green Line, which is a few minutes’ walk. It’s also near attractions like the longest cascading fountain in Meridian Park, the African American Civil War Memorial and Museum, Little Ethiopia, and beautiful street murals.

If you love vibrant endless nightlife in a neighborhood full of young professionals and artists and safe, you’ll love living in the U-Street Corridor.

6. Adams Morgan

Adams Morgan stands out as one of Washington DC’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Known for its rich tapestry of cultures, bustling nightlife, and an array of international cuisines, Adams Morgan has carved a niche for itself as a go-to spot for both residents and visitors. But beyond its lively atmosphere, it’s also regarded as a safe hub in the heart of DC. So, what makes Adams Morgan secure amidst its bustling streets?

Factors contributing to its safety:

1. Active Community Involvement.
   Adams Morgan boasts a tight-knit community. Residents are not just passive dwellers; they actively participate in neighborhood watch programs and community meetings, ensuring that everyone is looking out for each other.
2. Presence of Law Enforcement.
   The visible presence of law enforcement, especially during peak hours and weekends, acts as a deterrent for any potential criminal activities. Police patrols and community policing initiatives have played a pivotal role in maintaining the safety of the area.
3. Well-Lit Streets.
   One of the noticeable features of Adams Morgan is its well-lit streets. Proper street lighting reduces the chances of crimes, making residents and visitors feel secure even during nighttime.
4. Investment in Infrastructure.
   Over the years, there’s been consistent investment in maintaining and upgrading the neighborhood’s infrastructure. Surveillance cameras, emergency call boxes, and pedestrian-friendly streets all contribute to its safety.
5. Cultural Harmony.
   The diverse nature of Adams Morgan plays a role in its safety too. The neighborhood prides itself on its inclusivity, fostering a sense of community and respect among residents of various backgrounds. This mutual respect has led to a harmonious environment where safety issues are less prevalent.
6. Vigilant Business Community.
   The bustling business scene in Adams Morgan is not just about commerce. Local businesses actively collaborate with law enforcement and community groups to ensure that the area remains safe for patrons. Their vigilance often acts as an added layer of security.

7. Foggy Bottom

Nestled between the Potomac River and the heart of Washington D.C., Foggy Bottom seamlessly marries the old with the new, the historic with the contemporary. Its rich history resonates in the architecture and streets, while its modern vibe is reflected in the arts, food, and vibrant community life. Known for its cultural landmarks such as the Kennedy Center and the historic Watergate complex, Foggy Bottom stands as a testament to D.C.’s multifaceted character. But it’s not just the art and history that draw people in; it’s the safety and the sense of community that make it a preferred choice for a diverse crowd.

Rent an Apartment in a Safe Neighborhood in DC With June

Safety is one factor you can’t afford to overlook when looking for a place to live. Washington DC has its fair share of crime, but there are also safe neighborhoods where you can live peacefully.

If you’re not a resident, knowing which areas are safe may be challenging. June Homes can help you find an apartment in one of the safe neighborhoods without a hassle. Whether you’re looking to rent a room or a furnished apartment, we have units you’ll love.

Contact us today, and let us make it easy for you to find an apartment that fits your needs.

2023 DC Safety Update

• Property Crime: DC’s property crime rate surpasses the national average, with 41.35 incidents per 1,000 residents. This rate is up by 29% since 2017. Motor vehicle thefts have especially spiked.
• Homicide & Firearms: DC recorded its 100th homicide by mid-2023.
• Traffic Fatalities: DC witnessed a 41% increase in traffic fatalities in 2023, contrasting the national trend of a decline in such incidents.

FAQs on Washington DC Safety

Is Washington DC overall safe?

Washington D.C., like many major metropolitan areas, has its safe spots and areas that can be more challenging in terms of crime. Over the past few years, the city has implemented numerous initiatives to enhance safety. Tourist areas like the National Mall, Capitol Hill, and many parts of Northwest D.C. are generally safe and well-patrolled. However, it’s always important for residents and visitors to remain vigilant, be aware of their surroundings, and take standard urban safety precautions, especially during nighttime.

How does Washington DC’s crime rate compare nationally?

As of January 2023, Washington D.C.’s crime rate ranked higher than the national average for U.S. cities of comparable size. However, it’s crucial to understand that crime rates are influenced by a myriad of factors, such as socio-economic conditions, unemployment rates, police presence, and community engagement. While some types of crime may be elevated in specific areas, this doesn’t characterize the entire city. Many neighborhoods in Washington D.C. maintain crime rates that align with those of safe areas in other major U.S. cities.

Contributing Factors to DC’s Safety

Several factors contribute to the crime rate in Washington D.C.:

1. Socio-Economic Disparities: Like many cities, areas with higher poverty tend to have higher crime rates. Economic disparities can lead to desperation and increase in crimes of opportunity.
2. Drug Activity: Some areas in D.C. have been historically affected by drug-related activities, which can contribute to both violent and property crimes.
3. Population Density: Being a densely populated city, there’s a higher number of crimes per capita, which can skew crime rates when compared to less dense areas.
4. Political Nature of the City: Protests, rallies, and other large gatherings, given D.C.’s nature as the nation’s capital, can sometimes lead to unrest or clashes, contributing to the crime statistics.
5. Reporting Practices: D.C., being under a national spotlight, might have more stringent crime reporting practices compared to other cities, leading to a comprehensive documentation of crimes.
6. Community-Police Relations: The effectiveness of community policing and the relationship between police and residents can significantly influence crime rates.

It’s worth mentioning that D.C. has been proactive in addressing its challenges, with community programs, increased police patrolling in high-crime areas, and numerous initiatives aimed at economic development and reducing socio-economic disparities.