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Safest and Most Dangerous Places in Rochester NY IN 2026
Safe student living starts here
Located in Monroe County and the home of the University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, attracts thousands of international students and young professionals every year. The major landmark of the city, the Blue Cross Arena, is also home to the Rochester Americans Ice hockey team. Known for its academic and student-friendly vibe, the city is more diverse and international than many other cities in upstate New York. As per the recent 2024 census estimates, it has a population of around 207,000. At the University of Rochester, nearly 12,000 students live in the city or nearby student accommodations and rentals, forming a large part of the community.
When people talk about Rochester, some people talk about affordable housing, cafes, public transportation, and student life, while others mention robberies, property crime, and assaults. Due to various mixed opinions, international students who intend to complete their studies here frequently worry about the safest and the most dangerous places in Rochester, NY. This blog guides and gives information about the specific neighborhoods where students can live safely, and highlights the areas where they need to be extra careful.
Understanding The Crime In Rochester, NY
The total crime rate in Rochester is approximately 34 per 1000 residents. While this figure has seen record lows recently, it can appear higher than average due to the property crime rate, which is around 28 per 1000 residents. Burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft are seen frequently. They are often reported in high-traffic residential areas. Rochesters crime rate is about 80% higher than the U.S national average ,and its violent crime rate is about 60% higher than the national average
Top 5 Most Common Crimes in Rochester, NY
| Rank | Crime Type | Reported Incidents (Approx.) | Rate per 100,000 Residents | Where It Commonly Happens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Larceny / Theft | ~3,700 | ~1,796 | Downtown, shopping areas, campuses, commercial corridors |
| 2 | Motor Vehicle Theft | ~2,200 | ~1,089 | Parking lots, apartment complexes, street parking |
| 3 | Aggravated Assault | ~819 | ~397 | Dense residential neighborhoods, inner-city areas |
| 4 | Burglary | ~830 | ~405 | Residential areas, mixed-use buildings |
| 5 | Robbery | ~316 | ~153 | High-traffic streets, transit routes, commercial areas |
Safest Places In Rochester, NY
Rochester has several safe places and has a good quality of life; some areas stand out for their safety and residential atmosphere and are very popular among students and young professionals. When the topic of the safest and the most dangerous places in Rochester NY comes up, communities like Park Avenue and browncroft are often brought up.
1. Browncroft:
Safety index: High
Population: 3400
Nearest university: University of Rochester, ~6 miles, and Rochester Institute of Technology, ~11 miles
Browncroft is known for its strong community involvement, consistent lower crime rate, and well-maintained largely residential area. Which all makes it one of the safest places and a popular choice among students
2. North Winton Village:
Safety index: High
Population: 4000+
Nearest university: University of Rochester, ~6-7 miles, and Rochester Institute of Technology, ~10 miles
Due to strong community engagement and coordination of the Rochester Police Department, crime levels are very low. It is walkable and has accessibility. It has strong neighborhood associations, which give people living here a safe and comfortable environment.
3. Park Avenue :
Safety index: Medium- High
Population: ~6700
Nearest university: University of Rochester, ~3-4 miles, and Rochester Institute of Technology, ~9-10 miles
Park Avenue is considered safer than most central Rochester neighborhoods. Various cafes, restaurants, and shops create very active streets in the day and evening.It has safety and urban energy, making it popular among students who enjoy lifestyle amenities with relative safety.
4. South Wedge :
Safety index: Medium
Population: ~3600
Nearest university: University of Rochester, ~3-4 miles, and Rochester Institute of Technology, ~8-9 miles
South Wedge has a Brooklyn community vibe, walkability, and residential activity, which creates a safer place. It offers affordability and proximity to downtown Rochester and universities. It takes various initiatives to ensure safety, like the police and citizens together against crime initiative.
The prime reasons that attract students to these safest places in Rochester, NY are their low crime rates, strong connectivity to universities, smaller and more stable residential population, safer environment, and affordability compared to other cities. These places offer everything International students look for in Rochester.
Most Dangerous Places in Rochester NY
Rochester is known as a strong college city due to its universities and student population, regardless of certain places reporting higher crime rates than others, making it necessary to be aware of these areas.
1. Mayors Heights
Crime grade: D
Population: ~2500-3900
Total crimes: 1300-1500 incidents. Very high compared to the city average
Crime profile: high rate of violent crimes, robberies, and assaults.
Mayors Heights consistently ranks as the highest crime neighborhood in Rochester. Violent crimes like assaults are more frequent. For students, Mayors Heights is never recommended for living. Due to its socio-economic challenges, crime frequency is significantly higher.
2. Charles House
Crime grade: D
Population: ~2500
Total crimes: 1000-1200 incidents. Very high compared to the city average
Crime profile: high rate of violent crimes, robberies, and assaults.
Charles' house has always faced safety issues linked to the socioeconomic challenges. The police only focus on hotspot monitoring and targeted patrol, yet the area is considered a high risk, especially for students in the evening. It has violent crimes, due to which it is one of the most dangerous places in Rochester NY.
3. Edgerton :
Crime grade: C-
Population: ~7500
Total crimes: 1800-2000 incidents, Very high
Crime profile: high rate of property crime and violent crime.
Edgerton reports both violent and property crimes consistently. Its dense housing is a safety challenge. It has a long record of thefts and assaults. Resident awareness initiatives are implemented, but crime reduction is still slow.
4. Beechwood :
Crime grade: C+
Population: ~8700
Total crimes: 1200-1400 incidents, Very high
Crime profile: high rate of elevated violent crime, moderate property crime.
Beechwood has high and elevated violent crimes. Incidents of assaults and robberies are very common. Police patrols exist, but it is not safe at all.
The most dangerous places and areas to avoid in Rochester, NY, include Mayor's Heights, Charles Homes, Edgerton, and Beechwood. They show higher crime rates than other Rochester neighborhoods. It is important to take necessary precautions while visiting.
| Safety Focus | Safety Tip |
|---|---|
| Choosing Housing | Always select accommodation in the safest places in Rochester and research the safest and most dangerous places in Rochester NY before booking |
| Night Travel | Avoid walking alone after dark, especially when passing through dangerous places in Rochester |
| Protecting Valuables | Keep phones, laptops, and documents secure, as theft is more common outside the safest places in Rochester NY |
| Public Transport Awareness | Stay alert at bus stops and transit routes that pass through dangerous places in Rochester |
| Emergency Preparedness | Save emergency contacts and stay informed when moving between the safest and most dangerous places in Rochester NY |
Best and Safest Student Accommodations in Rochester, AZ
International students are attracted to the University of Rochester and the Rochester Institute of Technology, and tourists visit Rochester due to its cultural attractions and scenic spots. International students are more confident when they relocate if they are well aware of the safest and most dangerous places in Rochester NY. When you relocate to a new country or city, finding the ideal area to live is crucial. There are several safer locations and student accommodations for international students in Rochester. Amber can help you if you are moving to Rochester NY, for academic purposes. Amber offers various safe booking choices, verified listings, and end-to-end support to assist you in finding a home away from home at affordable pricing.
Check out the following verified listings and enjoy a hassle-free booking experience with amber.
Lofts At Gold Street - is a convenient student-friendly stay on Mt Hope Ave offering Wi-Fi, parking, laundry, lounge access, and an easy walk to campus starting from $975/month.
The Province, Rochester - provides multiple room options with a fitness center, pool, study lounges, free printing, and shuttle service to RIT from $814/month
Park Point, Rochester - offers a lively residential community with gym access, study areas, BBQ grills, sports courts, and Wi-Fi starting at $784/month.
Apex, Rochester - features modern living with a gym, pool, game areas, café, pet-friendly spaces, and shuttle service from $925/month.
The Feywild, Rochester - delivers comfortable student living with a gym, game room, study lounge, hot tub, and outdoor spaces starting at $849/month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rochester safe for students?
Yes, it is considered moderately safe if students live in the safest neighborhoods and follow basic precautions.
Which are the best areas to live in, Rochester, NY?
Browncroft, North Winton Village, Cobbs Hill, and Park Avenue are some of the safest places in Rochester, NY.
Which areas of Rochester have the highest crime rate?
Various areas have high crime rates, like Mayor's Heights, Edgerton, Upper Falls, and Charles House
What are the dangerous places in Rochester, NY?
Upper Falls, Beechwood, and Susan B.Anthony neighborhoods are considered dangerous due to their higher crime levels.
What is the poorest neighborhood in Rochester, NY? Is it safe to walk around Rochester, NY?
Edgerton, Mayor's height, and Marketview Heights are among the poorest areas. Walking is generally safe, but caution is advised in high-crime neighborhoods. Rochester have walk score of ~66, meaning its is somewhat walkable