10 Safest Neighborhoods in Detroit (2025)
Go Back To Previous PageDetroit has a longstanding stigma with crime in the United States, with violent crime being historically high. However, there are still some neighborhoods located within Motor City that offer a safe atmosphere. Read on to discover the ten safest Neighborhoods to live in the city of Detroit.
1. Palmer Woods
The safest neighborhood in Detroit is Palmer Woods, a historic area located near Woodward Avenue. This neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers
close access to the Detroit Golf Club.
Many professionals from the city reside in Palmer Woods. As of 2023, the crime rate in Palmer Woods is 2,059 per 100,000 residents, which is 10% lower than the national average. This makes Palmer Woods the safest place to live in Detroit, Michigan.
2. Corktown
Corktown is recognized as one of the safest neighborhoods in Detroit, with a population of 592 residents and an overall public safety rate that is 8% above the national average. This city is home to the oldest intact neighborhood, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Since 2005, Corktown has undergone several renovation projects, including the revitalization of Tiger Stadium and the UIS Irish Plana, along with various other multi-use developments. Additionally, Corktown is conveniently located just a short drive from Downtown Detroit.
3. Marina District
The Marina District is a safe community located just outside the heart of Detroit. With a population of 386, this neighborhood experiences low crime rates, with violent crime being rare.
The median home price in the Marina District is $168,200, which is significantly higher than the average in Detroit, yet still more affordable than the state average. True to its name, the community is situated near several local marinas, offering a variety of dining options in the surrounding area.
4. Rivertown
Rivertown is one of the safest neighborhoods in Detroit. Situated along the Detroit International Riverfront, it has a population of 925 people. The violent crime rate is 871 incidents per 100,000 people, while the property crime rate stands at 1,294 per 100,000 people.
Rivertown is a popular tourist destination, offering easy access to Downtown Detroit. The Riverfront features a cruise ship dock, a marina, parks, restaurants, and a variety of shops.
5. Midtown
Midtown Detroit has a population of 8,324 and is situated on both the east and west sides of Woodward Avenue. This area serves as both a residential and commercial district and is conveniently located near downtown.
The crime rate in Midtown is 2,156 incidents per 100,000 people, which is lower than the national average. Residents generally consider Midtown to be a safe area, although some property crimes do occur.
6. Downtown
Downtown Detroit is the central business district of the city and is famous for its strong police presence, making it one of the safest neighborhoods in Detroit. The population of Downtown Detroit is approximately 4,983, and its crime rates are significantly lower than in other parts of the city.
Residents here have a 1 in 48 chance of becoming a victim of any crime, which is 5% lower than the national average. The area features much of the city’s historic architecture and skyline, with notable landmarks including the Renaissance Center, the Penobscot Building, and several turn-of-the-century style theaters.
7. West Side Industrial
West Side has a population of 399 residents and is located adjacent to downtown Detroit. The violent crime rate in the West Side is among the lowest in the city, and property crime is also relatively low, at 1,208 incidents per 100,000 residents, making it one of the safest areas in Detroit.
As the name suggests, West Side has an industrial history that offers some interesting sightseeing opportunities. In recent years, the neighborhood has undergone several renovation efforts, resulting in the construction of many new homes and apartments.
8. New Center
New Center is one of the safest places to live in Detroit. This neighborhood, which combines commercial and residential areas, is located near Midtown and has a population of 1,038. Initially developed in the 1920s as a business hub, New Center features architecture that reflects this historic period.
The local economy is primarily driven by the College for Creative Studies and the Henry Ford Health System.
9. Brush Park
Brush Park is one of the safest neighborhoods in Detroit. This historic area is located just north of Downtown Detroit and covers approximately 24 blocks between Mack Avenue and Fisher Freeway. Brush Park is also conveniently located near several parks and green spaces, including Comerica Park.
Brush Park boasts a significantly lower crime rate compared to the rest of the city, with a total crime rate of 2,602 crimes per 100,000 residents, which is 60% safer than the average in Detroit.
Additionally, violent crime in Brush Park is 86% lower than the citywide average, giving residents a 1 in 39 chance of being a victim of crime in the neighborhood.
10. Millennium Village
Millennium Village is a safe neighborhood in Detroit, located south of the Fisher Freeway and north of Newark Street. This walkable community is home to nearly 1,000 residents and boasts friendly neighbors and affordable housing options.
The total crime rate in Millennium Village is 2,602 incidents per 100,000 residents, making it 60% safer than the rest of Detroit.
Additionally, the property crime rate is approximately 8% lower than the national average, and the community is safer than 77% of cities in the state of Michigan, according to the Detroit Police Department.
Is Detroit Safe?
Detroit is often perceived as a dangerous city, with a crime rate considerably higher than the national average. The total crime rate in Detroit is 6,389 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 170% higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is particularly alarming, being 448% higher than the national average, while the property crime rate is 129% higher.
In Detroit, your odds of becoming a victim of a crime are 1 in 16.
However, it’s important to note that large urban areas typically experience higher crime rates compared to smaller towns and rural areas. Much of the violent crime in Detroit tends to be targeted and concentrated in specific neighborhoods. Many parts of the city are pretty safe to live in and visit.
Tips for Staying Safe in Detroit
Downtown Detroit and its surrounding neighborhoods are typically the safest areas of the city, making them the best places to stay if you’re visiting.
Be cautious, however, as the area between 7 and 8 Mile Road on the East Side is known as the Red Zone, which is notorious for gang activity.
Avoid this area if you’re not familiar with it. Additionally, remember to lock your car, as the city experiences a high rate of auto theft.
Safest Places to Live in Detroit Methodology
To identify the safest neighborhoods in Detroit, we analyzed local crime statistics using data from 2021, 2022, and 2023, along with the latest FBI violent crime reports.
While safety is crucial, it’s also essential to consider factors such as the cost of living and quality of life to help you find the best places to live in Detroit.
