Safest & Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods in Brighton For Students In 2026

Brighton is cherished for its seaside charm, creative culture, & lively student life. But how safe is it? In this guide to the safest and most dangerous neighbourhoods in Brighton, we outline where the city feels calm and secure & where you need to be more careful. From the safest areas in Brighton known for peaceful living to the dangerous places in Brighton with higher crime activity, this blog helps you understand the city beyond the postcard views, so you can choose the right neighbourhood with confidence.

Is Living in Brighton Safe?

Brighton is a popular seaside city with a rich cultural scene, lively nightlife, and a large student population. Overall, the city’s crime rate is higher than the UK average, largely due to its urban nature and busy tourism and entertainment hubs. According to recent data, Brighton and Hove records around 124–143 crimes per 1,000 residents, which exceeds the national average of approximately 93 per 1,000 people, indicating a higher risk environment compared to many other UK areas. 

However, like any urban area, safety varies widely between neighbourhoods. Some parts of the city are known for being relatively safe and peaceful, while others have higher crime levels and are considered riskier to live in. Here’s a snapshot of the crime environment in Brighton, so that you can weigh the pros and cons of living in Brighton:

Despite these figures, many residents and visitors feel Brighton is generally safe, provided basic precautions are taken, particularly around busy nightlife, transport hubs, and crowded tourist spots.

Safest Neighbourhoods in Brighton, UK

The safest neighbourhoods in Brighton are known for their strong community presence, lower crime rates, and a calm residential atmosphere. These safest places to live in Brighton are especially popular among families, students, and professionals looking for peaceful surroundings while still staying well-connected to the city centre and universities.

1. Hove

Safety Index: High (70)
Average Rent: £1,600-£2,000/month (1-2 bed)
Why Safe: Affluent, leafy streets; low nightlife issues
Attractions: Hove Lawns/promenade, beach huts, Hove Museum
Best Known For: Relaxed seaside vibe, elegant Regency homes, family-friendly

Hove is widely regarded as one of the safest areas in Brighton for students, thanks to its lower crime rates compared to the bustling city centre. It's particularly appealing for students due to well-lit residential streets, a visible police presence through Sussex Police patrols, and city-wide initiatives like Night Safety Marshals and community partnerships focused on vulnerability reduction.

With a high walkability score (typically 80-90 in residential parts, as most amenities, shops, and transport are easily accessible on foot), this is one of the safest places in Brighton, convenient for daily life. The nearest universities are the University of Brighton (multiple campuses nearby) and the University of Sussex (about 20-30 minutes by bus/train). Additional measures include CCTV enforcement in key zones and student-focused safety programs like Good Night Owls volunteers.

2. Seven Dials

Safety Index: Very high (75)
Average Rent: £1,700-£2,200/month (1-2 bed)
Why Safe: Affluent, quiet, strong community
Attractions: Independent shops/cafes, Booth Museum
Best Known For: Trendy "village" feel, Victorian villas, boutiques

Seven Dials stands out as one of the safest neighbourhoods in Brighton and a top choice for students seeking a peaceful yet convenient base. Its quiet, upscale streets and minimal crime make it perfect for studying without distractions. Students living here enjoy bright street lighting, frequent patrols by the local Sussex Police Safer Neighbourhood Team, and support from schemes like Night Safety Marshals for evening returns. 

This is one of the safest places in Brighton that scores highly for walkability (typically 85-90), putting cafes, supermarkets, and Brighton Station just minutes away on foot. Closest universities include several University of Brighton campuses (easily reachable by walking or short bus), with the University of Sussex around 30 minutes by transport. Extra safety in these places to live in Brighton comes from widespread CCTV and enthusiastic local neighbourhood watch groups.

3. Preston Park

Safety Index: Very high (74)
Average Rent: £1,600-£2,100/month (1-2 bed)
Why Safe: Suburban, family-oriented, large park
Attractions: Preston Park (gardens, velodrome), Preston Manor
Best Known For: Green spaces, events (Pride, festivals), cycling heritage

If you're hunting for a genuinely peaceful spot in the city, Preston Park consistently ranks as one of the safest areas to live in Brighton, perfect for students who want calm surroundings without feeling isolated. Its suburban charm, family-focused vibe, and lower incident levels create a relaxed environment ideal for late-night study sessions or safe walks home. You'll find good street lighting throughout, regular foot patrols from the Sussex Police Safer Neighbourhood Team (especially around the park), and city-backed efforts like enhanced CCTV and seasonal high-visibility operations to tackle any anti-social behaviour.

Walkability in the safest places to live in Brighton is excellent (typically scoring 80-90), with local shops, cafes, Preston Park station, and green spaces all easily reachable on foot. The closest universities are the University of Brighton campuses (a quick walk or short bus ride south) and the University of Sussex (roughly 25-35 minutes by direct train or bus). Its community-driven neighbourhood watch groups add that extra layer of reassurance, too.

4. Queens Park

Safety Index: High (72)
Average Rent: £1,500-£2,000/month (1-2 bed)
Why Safe: Peaceful, enclosed park, low anti-social behaviour
Attractions: Pond, tennis courts, scented garden, café
Best Known For: Tranquil Victorian park, wildlife, picnics

Queens Park is frequently praised as one of the safest areas in Brighton, making it an excellent choice for students who value peace over the city's hectic energy. The park's secluded layout and surrounding quiet streets contribute to a reassuringly low-crime environment, ideal for evening walks or quiet study breaks. Students benefit from solid street lighting, periodic patrols by the Sussex Police Safer Neighbourhood Team, and recent council upgrades to CCTV systems covering entrances and pathways.

Walkability scores in these safest neighbourhoods in Brighton remain impressive (around 80-85), with handy access to nearby shops, cafes, and direct bus links into town. The nearest universities are the University of Brighton's Moulsecoomb and Falmer campuses (15-25 minutes by bus) and the University of Sussex (20-30 minutes away). Strong resident associations and regular safety meetings keep the community vigilant and connected.

5. Kemptown

Safety Index: Moderate-high (67)
Average Rent: £1,500-£2,100/month (1-2 bed)
Why Safe: Strong community spirit, quieter estate areas
Attractions: Seafront, Volk's Railway, antiques/shops
Best Known For: Regency architecture, vibrant cafes

Kemptown earns its reputation as one of the safest neighbourhoods in Brighton, blending lively energy with a strong, inclusive community that looks out for each other, especially welcoming in its LGBTQ+ heart. Residential pockets away from the main nightlife strips feel particularly secure for late walks or group living. Students in these safest areas in Brighton for students gain from enhanced street lighting along the seafront, targeted patrols by the Sussex Police Kemp Town Safer Neighbourhood Team (focusing on community engagement and foot presence). Plus city-wide tools like expanded CCTV on key streets and Night Safety Marshals during busier evenings also provide safety. 

Walkability shines with scores often hitting 90+, thanks to everything from indie cafes and supermarkets to the promenade and hospital being steps away. Closest universities include several University of Brighton campuses (like Grand Parade and Edward Street within easy walking distance or a quick bus), while Falmer campus and the University of Sussex sit 20-40 minutes away by frequent public transport. Active resident groups and ongoing council safety initiatives keep the area proactive and connected.

Now that we know about the safest neighbourhoods in Brighton, let’s take a look at the most dangerous places in Brighton that you should avoid. 

Most Dangerous Places in Brighton

While Brighton and Hove remain safer than many UK cities, certain dangerous areas in Brighton stand out due to higher reported crime rates, often linked to tourism, nightlife, and socio-economic factors. As of late 2025 data, the city records around 94 crimes per 1,000 people annually, driven largely by violence, shoplifting (over twice the national average), and public disorder. These dangerous places in Brighton frequently appear "riskier" on stats because of massive visitor numbers inflating incidents, even if many involve non-residents rather than locals.

1. Central Brighton

Central Brighton is often cited as one of the dangerous areas in Brighton due to its high footfall from tourists, shoppers, and nightlife, leading to inflated crime statistics compared to residential zones. The area sees elevated rates of violence, theft, and public disorder, with the city-wide crime rate around 94-118 crimes per 1,000 people in 2025, but central hotspots far exceeding this due to daytime population swell. Common crimes include shoplifting (a major issue city-wide at over twice the national average), anti-social behaviour, and violent/sexual offences, which make up about a third of reports.

2. Whitehawk

Whitehawk stands out among the dangerous neighbourhoods in Brighton, particularly in its more deprived residential sections, where socio-economic challenges contribute to higher incident levels. The Whitehawk & Marina ward records around 139 crimes per 1,000 residents annually, above the city average, with violence and anti-social behaviour prominent. Though reputations have improved, drug-related issues and occasional public order offences persist, making caution advisable, especially at night.

3. North Laine and The Lanes

North Laine and The Lanes are frequently ranked as dangerous places in Brighton because of intense commercial activity, drawing crowds that boost opportunistic crimes. Historical data shows rates up to 600+ crimes per 1,000 in peak periods, driven by massive shoplifting, theft from persons, and public order incidents amid boutiques and cafes. Violence spikes during evenings, amplified by the area's popularity with visitors.

3. St James’s Street

St James’s Street is considered one of the dangerous areas in Brighton, tied to its vibrant nightlife and events in the Kemptown area, resulting in frequent reports of disorder. Past stats placed combined wards at around 210 crimes per 1,000, with violence, sexual offences, and anti-social behaviour leading due to bars and late-night crowds. Theft and public order issues are common, especially on weekends.

4. West Street

West Street earns a spot among the dangerous neighbourhoods in Brighton as the epicentre of the nightclub scene, where alcohol-fueled incidents dominate after dark. It's notorious for high levels of violent crime, assaults, and public disorder, contributing heavily to the city's violence statistics (around 34 per 1,000 overall in 2025). Night-time brawls and thefts are prevalent, making it one to approach cautiously during peak hours.

Safety Tips for Students: Navigating the Safest & Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods in Brighton

1. Choose your accommodation wisely: Prioritise the safest neighbourhoods in Brighton, for student accommodation in Brighton, like Hove, Seven Dials, Preston Park, Queens Park, or residential parts of Kemptown, to minimise risks from the start.
2. Avoid high-risk areas at night: Steer clear of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Brighton, such as West Street, St James’s Street, and central nightlife zones after dark, especially alone or during weekends when alcohol-related incidents peak.
3. Travel in groups: When heading out in central Brighton or near North Laine/The Lanes, stick with friends, as most violent and anti-social behaviour incidents target lone individuals.
4. Use well-lit routes: Stick to main roads with good street lighting and CCTV coverage; avoid shortcuts through quieter or poorly lit parts of higher-crime areas like Whitehawk.
5. Plan your journey home: Pre-book licensed taxis or use reliable apps; take advantage of the free Night Bus services and Night Safety Marshals operating on Thursday and Saturday nights.
6. Stay aware of belongings: In busy tourist spots (often the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Brighton for theft), keep bags zipped and phones out of sight; shoplifting and pickpocketing are common.
7. Download safety apps: Use the Sussex Police app or SafeZone (free for University of Brighton & Sussex students) for instant emergency alerts and location sharing.

Find the Best Student Accommodation in the Safest Areas to Live in Brighton with Amber

Choosing the right place to live as a student goes beyond budget; it’s about feeling safe, comfortable, and supported throughout your studies. That’s where amber comes in. Amber helps you find the best and most affordable student accommodation in UK, in the safest neighbourhoods in Brighton, combining quality living with peace of mind. Whether you’re looking for a quiet room near lecture halls or a social space close to city life, amber’s platform connects you with verified properties in well-regarded areas known for safety and community. Here are some of the best housing options for you in the:

1. Promenade Student Living
2. Moulsecoomb Place
3. Pavilion Point
4. Alumno Falmer
5. Student Castle Brighton

Understanding the safest & most dangerous neighbourhoods in Brighton can help you make smarter decisions when choosing where to live, study, or invest. While Brighton offers many safe, welcoming areas, being aware of neighbourhood-level safety differences ensures a more secure and comfortable lifestyle. If you’re a student planning to move, amber makes the process easier by helping you find verified student accommodation in Brighton in safer, well-connected areas of Brighton, so you can focus on your studies with peace of mind.

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