Safest and Most Dangerous Places in Auburn AL in 2026: What Living Here Really Feels Like

If you ask someone about Auburn, Alabama, the response usually comes with pride and reassurance: “It’s a college town, but it's calm.” Known for the Auburn University, tree-lined streets, and strong sense of community, Auburn blends academic energy with Southern comfort. It's lively on game days, peaceful during the week, and welcoming to students, families, and first-time movers. 

The balance is exactly why Auburn continues to attract people every year. This city is primarily residential, with areas like student housing, commercial zones, and quiet family neighbourhoods. Some areas feel almost secluded, while others stay busy all day. As a student who is planning to move here for college, a question might have popped into your head, “How safe is Auburn really?  To answer that honestly, you need to understand the safest and most dangerous places in Auburn AL help you choose a place that matches your lifestyle and comfort. 

This guide offers a realistic look at Auburn's crime rates, neighborhood safety, safest areas, and what daily life truly feels like in this city. 

Understanding Crime Rates in Auburn AL

Auburn is often considered one of the safest cities in Alabama. Based on recent crime data, Auburn recorded a violent crime rate of about 1.075 per 1,000 residents. This includes offences like aggravated assault, rape, and robbery, and a property crime rate of about 9.80 per 1,000 residents. Property crime includes burglary, larceny/theft, and motor vehicle theft. When we look at these numbers, one thing becomes clear: violent crime is not a major concern here. 

While the overall crime rate of Auburn AL may appear moderate, it is largely driven by non-violent, opportunity-based property crimes. Being aware and understanding the safest and most dangerous places in Auburn AL can help you evaluate the best place for you to live. 

Safest Areas in Auburn AL

Even though Auburn is considered one of the safest college towns in Alabama, some neighbourhoods stand out for their low crime levels, peaceful environment, and student-friendly housing options. These are the areas locals and students most often recommend when looking for safe, comfortable living close to campus. Since rent varies a lot by area, it helps to review the cost of living in Auburn AL, before finalising your budget. 

1. Cary Woods

Safety Index – 9.1/10 (Very High)
Average Rent – $1,200 – $1,800 / per month
Average Population – 3,500 – 4,500

Carry Woods is one of the safest neighbourhoods in Auburn AL. This area has tree-lined streets, a community vibe, and it's just a 5-10 minute drive from Auburn University. The neighborhood is filled with students, faculty, and families. 

2. Moores Mill

Safety Index – 8.9/10 (High)
Average Rent – $1,100 – $1,600 / per month
Average Population – 6,000 – 7,500

Moores Mill has a vibe of suburban vibe with modern apartment complexes and townhomes. Located about a 10-15 minute drive from campus. This area is ideal for students who prefer quiet and calm while also staying connected to the university crowd, making it one of the safest areas in Auburn AL.

3. Asheton Lakes

Safety Index – 8.6/10 (High)
Average Rent – $1,300 – $1,900 / per month
Average Population – 2,500 – 3,500

This area is a gated residential community known for lakeside walking paths, upscale apartments, and calm surroundings. With its proximity to Auburn University, it attracts students and young professionals. The organised community layout and low crime zone make this area one of the safest neighbourhoods in Auburn AL. 

4. Downtown Auburn (North & East Side)

Safety Index – 7.8/10 (Moderate to High)
Average Rent – $1,400 – $2,200 / per month
Average Population – 4,000 – 6,000

The north and east sides of Downtown Auburn are considered safer than the busier nightlife zones. With walking access to campus, cafes, libraries, and other entertainment places, this area is ideal for students looking for the safest neighbourhoods in Auburn AL.

5. Ogletree Area

Safety Index – 8.4/10 (High)
Average Rent – $1,100 – $1,700 / per month
Average Population – 5,000 – 6,500

Ogletree Area is known for newer housing developments, quiet streets, and family-oriented communities. Auburn University is a 15-minute drive, making this area ideal for students seeking a calm environment away from the downtown crowd. 

Dangerous neighbourhoods in Auburn AL, You Should Avoid 

While Auburn is considered one of the safest cities in Alabama, there are a few areas that have reported a few criminal activities, and extra caution is needed in such places. These areas are not unsafe at all times, but they do require extra caution, particularly for students and newcomers unfamiliar with the city. 

Here’s a list of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Auburn AL that you should know:

1. South College Street Area

Crime Rate – 6.9 per 1,000 violent crime, 29.8 per 1,000 property crime
Average Rent – $950 – $1,300 / month
Crime Reported – Robberies, assaults, vehicle break-ins

South College Street has a mix of apartments and commercial zones. Even though it is near campus, late-night incidents are quite common in this area, especially near the gas station, dimly lit street, and parking lots. 

2. Opelika Road (West Auburn)

Crime Rate – 6.2 per 1,000 violent crime, 27.5 per 1,000 property crime
Average Rent – $900 – $1,250 / month
Crime Reported – Theft, burglary, vehicle theft

Opelika Road experiences a higher property crime rate than the eastern side of Auburn. The older housing complex and busy roadways are the cause of the increase in incidents.

3. Downtown Auburn (Late-Night Zones)

Crime Rate – 7.4 per 1,000 violent crime, 31.2 per 1,000 property crime
Average Rent – $1,400 – $2,200 / month
Crime Reported – Assaults, pick-pocketing, alcohol-related incidents

Downtown Auburn is lively and popular with students, but crime spikes at midnight, especially around bars and crowded nightlife spots.

4. North Donahue Drive Area

Crime Rate – 6.6 per 1,000 violent crime, 28.9 per 1,000 property crime
Average Rent – $1,000 – $1,450 / month
Crime Reported – Burglaries, vehicle break-ins

This area has a large student population and many apartment complexes. The high turnover of residents and dense housing contribute to theft-related crimes. 

Safety Tips for Students to Live Safely in Auburn AL 

1. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid walking alone after dark

2. Use campus transit or rideshare services

3. Choose an apartment with gated access, CCTV, and good lighting. 

4. Park the vehicle at a secure parking lot and never leave valuables inside.

5. Lock your door and window securely at night. 

If you’re planning to move to Auburn AL, for college, searching for apartments can be overwhelming and tiring. You might be looking for a place you can call your home, and with amber, you can find affordable and safe student apartments in Auburn AL, modernly designed for your comfort near your campus areas 

Auburn AL offers a peaceful and calm environment for student coming for their studies. With its tree-lined pathways, lakeside trails, libraries, cafes, and community-driven charm, Auburn makes the college experience memorable. But being aware of your surroundings when you are new to the city is also important, and understanding the safest and most dangerous places in Auburn AL can help a newcomer navigate the city properly.  

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