Guide To Safest And Most Dangerous Neighborhoods In Madison WI In 2026

The Midwest features a list of amazing cities to live in. One of them is Madison WI. While the city boasts a community-like feel, safety is still a topic one has to be aware of. The safest and most dangerous places in Madison WI are determined by various factors. We will look at criteria such as crime trends, housing density, nightlife activity, and distance to the university.

Madison is Wisconsin’s capital and is one of the major cities in the Midwest. The city has a blend of government offices, historic districts, and student-heavy areas. This mix creates not only quiet residential neighborhoods but also bustling hubs. Whether you are a student, family person, or visitor, knowing the nuances and differences in these areas is important.

This Madison WI guide aims to analyze Madison’s neighborhoods based on recent crime trends. We will also take local reputation and livability into consideration. It’s hard to label any city as “safe” or “unsafe” - hence, it’s important to highlight areas where risks are higher and areas where you will feel secure. You may be studying at the University of Wisconsin–Madison or simply looking to move there - this guide will help you make a well-informed decision.

Is Madison Safe? Exploring the Safest and Most Dangerous Places in Madison WI

If you are considering moving to Madison, you might ask, “Is Madison WI safe?” As alluded, it can’t be answered in a simple “Yes” or “No.” A lot depends on which neighborhood we are talking about and what kind of safety we are looking at. Overall, the city offers a mix of both safe areas and places with inflated crime rates. Understanding the safest places in Madison WI is key for both residents and newcomers.

Let’s look at some numbers. According to the Madison Police Department’s 2025 data, Madison saw a reduction in crime rates. There was an overall 16% drop in comparison to the previous three years (2024, 2023, and 2022). To be more specific, cases of homicides decreased by a whopping 55%. There was a 43% decrease in shots fired incidents, and property crimes such as burglaries and vehicle thefts dropped by 43% and 52% respectively.

As one can see, the data is quite positive. Areas including the northwest and outer residential zones are quite secure. However, this doesn’t mean that the city is completely safe and crime-free. Some areas do experience violent incidents. These areas - particularly in the city center or areas that have high population - see recurring crime reports. Exercising caution is the key. Paying close attention to the crime data provided and local trends will help you secure a comfortable neighborhood for your stay.

Safest Neighborhoods in Madison WI in 2026

If you’re looking to explore or relocate to Madison WI, it helps to look beyond broad city stats and zoom into specific neighborhoods where residents report lower crime rates and stronger community engagement. Safe neighborhoods in Madison often feature good schools, active neighborhood communities and associations, streets lined with trees, and a mix of housing options that appeal to a variety of groups (families, students, and working professionals). Safety guides and reports suggest that there are quite a few neighborhoods that rank high in safety charts and are below the city average (crime rates). These areas naturally see fewer crime reports and violent incidents. Aside from the safest, if you’d like to know more about the “best” areas in the city, read our blog on the best places to live in Madison.

It’s important to note that safety isn’t always just in the numbers and stats. A lot can be seen from the resident involvement. Neighborhoods that have parks, schools, markets, and services often feature in the list of the safest neighborhoods in Madison WI. For students and international renters, amber makes it easier to explore accommodation options across Madison’s safest neighborhoods.

Below is a summary of the safe places to live in Madison (based on 2025 data and local reputation) as of 2026.

1. University Hill Farms

Population: 4,362

Crime Rate (2025): Safer than 81% of neighborhoods
Best for: Families and those seeking a planned community feel
Why these are the Safest Neighborhoods in Madison WI: University Hill Farms stands out as one of the most secure areas in Madison, ranking safer than the vast majority of other local neighborhoods. It features a meticulously planned community atmosphere, complete with accessible parks and reputable schools. Residents enjoy a significantly lower overall crime rate, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a quiet and stable environment.

2. Westmorland

Population: 5,100
Crime Rate (2025): Safer than 74% of neighborhoods
Best for: community involvement and active neighbors

Why these are the Safest Neighborhoods in Madison WI: Westmoreland is a peaceful pocket where neighbors actually know each other. The local neighborhood association is super active, which keeps the streets feeling tight-knit and well-watched. It has a great mix of mid-century charm and low-traffic roads, making it a favorite for those who want a safe and friendly environment.

3. Vilas

Population: 3,850
Crime Rate (2025): Safer than 65% of neighborhoods
Best for: students, faculty, and zoo lovers

Why these are the Safest Neighborhoods in Madison WI: Vilas is iconic for being home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Henry Vilas Zoo. The streets are incredibly walkable and stay busy with a mix of students and professors. Even with all the activity, it maintains a strong safety record and is ideal if you want to be steps away from campus and Lake Wingra.

4. Dudgeon-Monroe

Population: 3,504
Crime Rate (2025): Safer than 63% of neighborhoods
Best for: local shopping and family-friendly vibes

Why these are the Safest Neighborhoods in Madison WI: Dudgeon-Monroe feels like its own little village. It’s a family-heavy area where people spend a lot of time hanging out at the local shops and cafes along Monroe Street. Because residents are so involved in the local scene and look out for one another, it’s easily one of the most secure and welcoming neighborhoods in town.

5. Wexford Village

Population: 3,003
Crime Rate (2025): 41% below the national crime average
Best for: quiet living and outdoor spaces

Why these are the Safest Neighborhoods in Madison WI: Wexford Village is the go-to if you want a low-stress, quiet lifestyle. The area is packed with green spaces and tree-lined paths, which makes the whole neighborhood feel very secluded and safe. Crime here is way below the national average, offering a calm, predictable environment for anyone looking to escape the city's hustle.

These neighborhoods offer a blend of safety, community, and quality-of-life amenities that place them among the safest places in Madison WI, heading into 2026. 

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Madison WI in 2026

To have the complete picture about the safest and most dangerous places in Madison WI, we have to look at the most dangerous neighborhoods in Madison WI. As the data suggests, there has been a clear drop in crime rates over the past 3 years. However, there are always two sides to a story. Data also suggests that some neighborhoods still report higher levels of both violent and property crime compared to the citywide average. Looking at the Madison WI crime map 2026 will provide a clearer picture of the city. Some areas, especially downtown or areas that have a high population density, show more frequent incidents.

When looking at the areas to avoid in Madison WI, it’s important to note that “dangerous neighborhood” is a rather relative term. Interestingly, there are some areas that, despite having reported crime incidents, feel safe. That being said, there are a few neighborhoods that consistently feature in the list of most dangerous neighborhoods in Madison WI. These areas typically have lower household income, a lack of community events, and associations. Another common thing is that these areas have more population than the city's average.

Below is an overview of Madison crime rates by neighborhood. Based on recent data and local references, it may show higher crime concerns and appear toward the top of the Madison WI Crime Map 2026 when compared with other parts of the city.

1. Vera Court

Population: 2,900
Crime Rate (2025): High compared to the city average
Best for: Residents who stay alert and prioritize affordability

Why these are the most dangerous neighborhoods in Madison WI: Vera Court is known as one of the toughest spots in town, with frequent reports of assaults and thefts. While the community is resilient, the data shows crime is a regular concern. It’s the kind of area where you need to be extra aware of your surroundings and keep things locked up, especially after dark.

2. Wexford Ridge

Population: 3,450
Crime Rate (2025): Significantly above the city average
Best for: renters who use security systems

Why these are the most dangerous neighborhoods in Madison WI: Wexford Ridge often makes the list for its high property crime and recurring break-ins. Because it's a densely populated area, it tends to see more activity than quieter parts of Madison. If you're moving here, it’s worth checking your building's security and staying in the loop with local safety updates.

3. North Lake Mendota

Population: 3,100
Crime Rate (2025): High violent crime rate
Best for: Daytime activities; extra caution at night

Why these are the most dangerous neighborhoods in Madison WI: North Lake Mendota might look peaceful, but crime figures here often land several times higher than the city average. Violent crime is the main concern, which can feel jarring compared to nearby spots. It’s definitely a neighborhood where sticking to well-lit streets and the buddy system is a smart move if you're out late.

4. Mayfair Park

Population: 2,200
Crime Rate (2025): Elevated crime incidents
Best for: Residents who prefer active neighborhood watches

Why these are the most dangerous neighborhoods in Madison WI: Mayfair Park sees its fair share of both property and violent crime, keeping it on the radar for local law enforcement. Even with its smaller population, the frequency of incidents is high. It’s a place where being proactive about home security and staying connected with neighbors is a must to keep tabs on the block.

5. Allied Drive/Dunn’s Marsh

Population: 4,800
Crime Rate (2025): Higher crime rate than average
Best for: budget-conscious living with safety precautions

Why these are the most dangerous neighborhoods in Madison WI: Allied Drive/Dunn’s Marsh has a long-standing reputation for safety concerns that the city is still working to address. Residents often mention feeling more on edge here than in other districts due to the crime rates. If you're living here, it's important to know the layout and avoid high-risk spots to keep your daily routine safe.

Safety Tips for Students in Madison WI

While moving to Madison as a student can be exciting, it’s worth keeping in mind the potential dangers. One of the key things is to stay alert - particularly when looking at areas to avoid in Madison WI, or finding low crime areas near the University of Wisconsin. You can learn more about the university and its various courses it offers including the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts. Here is a curated list of some safety tips that can make your experience better and safer:

1. Know the Areas to avoid in Madison WI: As a student and resident, you must familiarize yourself with the local crime maps. This will help you identify the high-risk areas in the city - especially after sunset. If you are out at dark, try to roam in well-lit areas and streets.

2. Use Campus & Personal Safety Apps: Tools like UW–Madison’s LiveSafe and smartphone apps like bSafe or Find My Friends make it easier to share your location with trusted contacts, request campus escort services, or quickly dial emergency services if needed.

3. Stay in Low-Crime Areas Near University of Wisconsin: If you are looking to move to the city, try to find accommodation in areas that typically have lower crime rates. As noted before, it’s good to look for houses in the northwest of the main campus. Having a house near another student community also helps.

4. Buddy System After Dark: Whenever possible, walk with friends or classmates late at night. If you’re by yourself, let someone know your route and expected arrival time.

5. Be Smart with Belongings & Social Plans: Keep your valuables and belongings safe and secure. Make sure you do not go into areas that are unfamiliar to you. Even if you do, try to be informed about the place before going. You should also plan your rides ahead of time so that you can secure your way home on time.

Final Thoughts

Despite the safety concerns mentioned above, Madison is a highly livable city. It boasts a growing urban landscape. Crime is certainly a concern there; however, safety heavily depends on which area you are in. Understanding the safest and most dangerous places in Madison WI will allow you, whether you are a student or resident, to make smarter decisions when it comes to housing and lifestyle choices.

As it is quite evident from the above information, Madison offers a wide range of living options - from quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods to areas that require extra caution. If you focus on the data, local context, and overall livability score, it becomes easier to identify the safest places in Madison WI, and makes it clear on which areas you should be moving to and the areas you should be avoiding.

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