The Top 12 Safest Neighborhoods in Philadelphia for Students

Planning to move to Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love? While the city’s lively culture, rich history, and dynamic food scene make it an attractive place to live, safety remains the top priority for students. Given that Philadelphia’s overall crime rate is 43 crimes per 1,000 residents, finding a secure neighborhood has become vital for students coming to study and live here. In this blog, we will explore the top 12 safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia. We shall look at the different factors, such as community engagement, local police response times, and maintenance of public spaces, that make these safe suburbs of Philadelphia best for students.   

Why Live in Philadelphia?

Besides its rich history and cultural heritage, Philadelphia offers an unparalleled educational experience that combines academic excellence, making it a top attraction for students. It is home to prestigious institutions like the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University and boasts over 100 colleges and universities, drawing nearly 300,000 students every year. Beyond the educational landscape, the city is also a major urban hub offering invaluable internship and networking opportunities for students. Plus, you get some of the best student housing in Philadelphia and can experience an array of museums, theaters, and historic landmarks adorning the city. Even, the public transit system of the city is top-notch, with the SEPTA network of buses, trolleys, and trains making it convenient for students to travel. Philadelphia truly offers an ideal blend of world-class education and real-world experience.  

Top 12 Safest Neighborhoods in Philadelphia for Students

Student safety in the USA is a top priority. The safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia offer a unique blend of security and community charm. These safest Philadelphia neighborhoods consistently report crime rates of 50-70% below the city average, owing to a combination of active community engagement and effective law enforcement. With well-lit streets, well-maintained parks, and strong neighborhood watch, students will feel safe in the safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia PA. Let’s explore them.    

1. Chestnut Hill

Crime Rate: 11% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $701 - $1,000/month
Population: 7,575
Known For: Shops, galleries, & boutiques
Nearby Universities: Boston College & Franklin University

Combining historic charm with modern amenities, Chestnut Hill makes for one of the safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia PA. Students choosing Chestnut Hill will enjoy the beautiful tree-lined streets, historic homes, and scenic walking paths in the area. The area’s main attraction is Germantown Avenue, featuring more than 200 boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, including popular student hangout spots, Chestnut Hill Coffee Co. and Night Kitchen Bakery. If you love green spaces, you can spend time in Pastorius Park and Morris Arboretum (it features 92 acres of gardens and walking trails!), which are perfect for outdoor studying or relaxation. Also, in Chestnut Hill, the safest neighborhood in Philadelphia, you cannot miss seasonal festivals like the Harry Potter Festival and Fall for the Arts. For academics, the Chestnut Hill Library offers quiet study spaces, while spots like the Market at the Fareway offer diverse food options. For safety, the area is equipped with security cameras, 24/7 private security patrols (8 officers per shift), and 45 emergency call boxes along Germantown Avenue. Chestnuts Hill is definitely the best and safest neighborhood in Philadelphia for students seeking a peaceful study atmosphere! 

2. Somerton

Crime Rate: 60% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $1,400 - $1,703/month
Population: 26,000
Known For: Restaurants, community parks, & proximity to highways
Nearby Universities: Holy Family University & Franklin University

Situated in the far northeast of Philadelphia, Somerton offers students a quiet, suburban atmosphere while offering convenient access to the city. The area’s diverse food scene, featuring authentic Asian restaurants along Bustleton Avenue is a major attraction for international students choosing Somerton as their place of stay. Considered one of the safe neighborhoods in Philadelphia, Somerton offers affordable student housing and a quiet environment conducive to studying. Safety is a top priority with several CCTV cameras at major intersections, a dedicated police substation at Somerton Shopping Center, and enhanced street lighting throughout the area. 

There’s so much to explore and experience in this safest neighborhood in Philadelphia! The Benjamin Rush State Park offers you extensive recreational opportunities, including bike trails and community gardens. Then there’s the beautiful Pennypack Park, where one can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking. Other local spots, such as Somerton Springs Swimming Pool and the Somerton Youth Organization offer other recreational activities. Plus, the suburb’s proximity to Northeast Philadelphia Airport makes it convenient for international students staying here.

3. Pennypack Park

Crime Rate: 71% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $1,350 - $1,500/month
Population: 15,687
Known For: Scattered deer herd & bird-watching trails
Nearby Universities: University of Pennsylvania & West Chester University

Love the outdoors? Then, Pennypack Park, one of the safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia, is the ideal place to live. Spanning 1,600 acres, this area offers an unusual blend of urban convenience and natural escape. The Pennypack Environmental Center is the perfect spot for students interested in environmental studies or research projects. The Pennypack Park itself features several hiking trails, biking paths, scenic spots, and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Additionally, you get access to an array of cafes and delis, making it ideal for budget-conscious students. Coming to security, the suburb has 24-hour park ranger patrols and 32 emergency call boxes along main trails. Major spots in the area are closely monitored by dedicated Park Police units with response times averaging 6-8 minutes. Plus, the active community safety initiatives, with regular check-ins from local police make it a safe place for students.

4. University City

Crime Rate: 30% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $2,000- $2,725/month
Population: 53,000
Known For: Outdoor activities & nightlife
Nearby Universities: University of Pennsylvania & Drexel University

Next on our list of the safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia PA is University City, an educational hub pulsing with academic energy and student life. With over 400 security officers, 700+ security cameras, and 300 blue light emergency phones, the area ensures strong safety for all. There’s also the Penn Guardian mobile app for students to use, automated external defibrillators (AEDS), and an average response time of 2-3 minutes. Living in University City means having access to numerous study spots, from cozy cafes like Green Line World Cafe for live music to modern spaces like the recently renovated Penn Libraries. 

One will also find several entertainment spots, such as the World Cafe Live for live music, the Institute of Contemporary Art for cultural enrichment, and Clark Park for outdoor events and farmers’ markets. Food lovers will find many budget-friendly options with options, including food trucks along 38th Street and ethnic restaurants throughout Baltimore Avenue. Not to forget the neighborhood’s thriving tech and healthcare industry, offering numerous internship and job opportunities for students. Offering a blend of academic excellence, entertainment, and career opportunities, University City is truly the best and safest neighborhood in Philadelphia.

5. Fairmount

Crime Rate: 40% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $1,800 - $2,300/month
Population: 30,280
Known For: Art, green spaces, & events
Nearby Universities: University of Pennsylvania & West Chester University

Often called the ‘Art Museum Area,’ Fairmount is one of the safest suburbs in Philadelphia offering the perfect mix of cultural richness with outdoor recreation. With its right balance of history, culture, and modern amenities, the area attracts a large number of students. For safety, the area conducts regular patrols and has an active Town Watch program with 250+ members. Fairmount also maintains an emergency alert system, monthly community safety meetings, and an average police response time of 8-10 minutes. 

Home to the renowned Philadelphia Museum of Art and the iconic Rocky Steps, Fairmount is a cultural hotspot with much to explore and experience. Take leisurely strolls through the largest urban park in the US, Fairmount Park, or visit the Philadelphia Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the country. The Eastern State Penitentiary is where one can get unique study opportunities for criminal justice and history majors. That’s not all! Fairmount also features a range of cafes and study spots, including OCF Coffee House and Mugshots Coffeehouse. For delicious meals, one cannot miss Urban Saloon and London Grill. A few other spots that students staying in this safest neighborhood can explore include Fairmount Park, Rodin Museum, and the Philadelphia Sports Complex.  

6. Northern Liberties

Crime Rate: 33% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $2,000 - $2,195/month
Population: 18,474
Known For: Art galleries & beer bars
Nearby Universities: DeVry University & University of Pennsylvania

Known for its artistic vibe, trendy cafes, and boutique shops, Northern Liberties is one of the rapidly growing and safe neighborhoods in Philadelphia. With its hip and youthful atmosphere, the neighborhood attracts both college students and young professionals. To meet the needs of its growing population, the authorities have put many safety measures in place. The Northern Liberties Neighborhood Association works with law enforcement to maintain a secure environment for all residents. There’s a visible police presence in the area along with well-lit streets, surveillance cameras, and active neighborhood watch programs. One of the safest Philadelphia neighborhoods, Northern Liberties offers an eclectic mix of coffee shops like One Shot Coffee. Art lovers can get some inspiration from art galleries like Crane Arts. Additionally, the area features many good live music venues and breweries, including Yards Brewing Company and Evil Genius Beer Company.   

7. Fox Chase

Crime Rate: 38% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $1,275 - $1,500/month
Population: 20,000
Known For: Diversity & outdoor activities
Nearby Universities: Franklin University & Lafayette College

One of the safest Philadelphia suburbs, Fox Chase offers a tranquil, suburban feel, making it a top choice for medical students due to its proximity to Fox Chase Cancer Center. The Fox Chase Homeowners Association actively works with local law enforcement to maintain safety. Also, the local police conduct regular patrols, especially near schools and universities, with community watch programs adding to its appeal. This safest neighborhood in Philadelphia provides several quiet study spots, including the Free Library of Philadelphia’s Fox Chase Branch (offering peaceful reading rooms). One can even go jogging or take study breaks at Pennypack Park. When living in Fox Chase, don’t forget to visit the Fox Chase Farm, a working educational farm, that offers unique learning opportunities for agriculture and environmental science students. The area also hosts seasonal farmers’ markets and community events at the Fox Chase Recreation Center.  

8. Roxborough

Crime Rate: 42% higher than the national average
Average Rent: $1,675 - $2,000/month
Population: 15,000
Known For: Nightlife & outdoor activities
Nearby Universities: Arcadia University & Chestnut Hill College

Offering a mix of green spaces and urban amenities, Roxborough is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Philly. Students who love nature and outdoor activities will love it here as the area is adorned with picturesque streets, and local parks, and is close to Wissahickon Valley Park. The neighborhood’s safety is ensured by an active neighborhood association and close partnership with local police. Plus, the community efforts of regular watch programs and safety meetings keep students informed and safe. Famous for its historic charm and small-town feel, Roxborough, one of the safest Philadelphia neighborhoods, offers students access to many coffee shops like Volo Coffeehouse and Crossroads Coffee House. Get student discounts on fitness facilities at the Roxborough YMCA. Roxborough’s good street lighting, well-maintained parks, and strong community ties make it one of the safest suburbs in Philadelphia. 

9. Academy Gardens

Crime Rate: 38% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $1,425 - $1,600/month
Population: 4,000
Known For: Outdoor activities & dog-friendly parks
Nearby Universities: Holy Family University & DeVry University

Academy Gardens, a hidden gem in the northeast section of Philadelphia, is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Philly. Featuring beautiful tree-lined streets, suburban-style homes, and close-knit communities, Academy Gardens makes for the perfect place for students to live. The area owes its low crime rate to its security infrastructure which includes 95 surveillance cameras, regular police patrols, and an active community watch program with 180+ members. In addition, students staying here also get access to emergency services and well-kept public areas. In Academy Gardens, one can enjoy the splendid dining scene along Bustleton Avenue, including many Asian and Eastern European restaurants. Get convenient retail options at the Academy Gardens Shopping Center. Adding to the convenience is the easy access to public transit, allowing students to quickly get to nearby universities and downtown Philadelphia.  

10. Bella Vista

Crime Rate: 33% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $1,739 - $2,655/month
Population: 6,100
Known For: Italian Market
Nearby Universities: University of Pennsylvania & La Salle University

Centered around the historic Italian Market, Bella Vista is one of the safe Philadelphia suburbs. Students will love the Italian Market featuring several coffee shops and cafes, including Anthony’s Coffee House and Chapter Cafe & Gallery, perfect for studying and hanging out with friends. On the safety front, the market area has around 160 security cameras, a dedicated market police, and a merchant watch program. The emergency response times in Bella Vista average 6-8 minutes, supported by both police and private security services. The well-lit streets, friendly residents, and vigilant neighborhood associations add to the area’s security. Besides the Italian Market, students can also explore art galleries like Da Vinci Art Alliance, Palumbo Recreation Center, and Dickinson Square Park. Offering a blend of culture, community, and convenience, Bella Vista is an excellent choice for students seeking the safest neighborhood in Philadelphia.

11. Bustleton

Crime Rate: 25% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $1,416 - $1,739/month
Population: 34,500
Known For: Churches & Uzbek Restaurants
Nearby Universities: Holy Family University & Salus University

Bustleton, one of the safest neighborhoods in Philly, is known for its cultural diversity and strong safety record. The area has comprehensive security coverage, including CCTV cameras, regular patrols from the 7th Police District, and an active citizen patrol program. Additionally, students staying here get easy access to emergency services, adding to the sense of security. There are many student-friendly spots that one can explore here, including the Bustleton Branch Library and Northeast Regional Library. Along Bustleton Avenue, students will find a range of dining options, featuring Eastern European, Asian, and Middle Eastern restaurants. If a quiet atmosphere and affordable Bustleton student housing are what you seek, this safest neighborhood in Philadelphia is the right choice.  

12. Torresdale

Crime Rate: 41% lower than the national average
Average Rent: $1,550 - $1,700/month
Population: 12,160
Known For: Parks & historic sites
Nearby Universities: Holy Family University & Franklin University

Located along the Delaware River, Torresdale is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia PA. Students choosing Torresdale will find themselves amongst a unique setting of historical charm and modern conveniences. The low crime rate is a big attraction for students coming here. With surveillance cameras, regular police marine unit patrols along the riverfront, and an active town watch program, the authorities ensure top-notch security for its residents. Even the Torresdale Train Station has a 24/7 transit police presence, along with well-lit parking areas. Students staying in Torresdale will find a ton of things to do. Attend cultural events at the Glen Foerd on the Delaware and enjoy recreational activities at Torresdale Playground and Pleasant Hill Park. For shopping and entertainment options, the Franklin Mills Mall is also close by in this safest neighborhood in Philadelphia. 

In a nutshell, the safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia provide students with safe, vibrant, and enriching living experiences. By focusing on security alongside academic and cultural offerings, these safest Philadelphia neighborhoods have evolved as good centers of urban livability, attracting students from around the world. As you venture into finding your ideal home away from home, take comfort in knowing that your safety and well-being are the top priorities for these safe neighborhoods in Philadelphia.