Safest and the Most Dangerous Places in State College PA in 2026

Located in Centre County and the home of the Pennsylvania State University, State College, Pennsylvania, draws thousands of young professionals and overseas students every year. It is often considered one of the most student-friendly and student-centered communities in the United States. The city is vibrant, youthful, and has an academic culture. Beaver Stadium, one of the city's most recognizable structures, is home to the legendary Penn State Nittany Lions football team. State College is a more diversified and globally linked town due to its strong academic presence. According to the census report, the city has a population of approximately 42,000 people. Penn State University enrolls over 40,000 students, and many live in the city or nearby rented student accommodations.

Opinions of state colleges frequently differ based on personal experiences. Some draw attention to the city's vibrant cafe culture, effective public transportation, walkable neighborhoods, active nightlife, and year-round student events. However, others talk about issues with property crimes, including thefts, burglaries, and sporadic assaults, especially in locations with a lot of students. Knowing which neighborhoods are safer and which call for extra caution becomes crucial when selecting housing for students who intend to attend Pennsylvania State University. State College is typically regarded as a safe college town, but not all places provide the same level of security. This guide assists you in making a well informed housing choices and makes you aware of the safest and the most dangerous places in State College PA.

Understanding the Crime rates in State College PA

The total crime rate in State College is approximately 11.18 per 1000 residents, which reflects both violent and property crimes combined. Violent crimes in State College are relatively low at about 0.74 per 1000 residents. Which means violent crimes are uncommon. However, the property crime rate is higher at around 10.45 per 1000 residents, and this drives much of the overall crime rate in the city. Mostly larceny, burglary, and aggravated assault types of crimes are reported in these areas. Stolen bicycles, unattended bags, and unlocked vehicles are seen frequently. These incidents occur more in student-dense neighborhoods where foot traffic is high, and shared housing is common.

Here are some state college crime rates and statistics

Safest Places in State College PA

Many of the safest areas are situated at some distance from the bustling downtown core and are differentiated by planned residential layouts, active community involvement and restricted nightlife activities. These places are popular with international students, families, and young professionals who wish to live in a peaceful and secure environment. These safest neighborhoods in State College provide easy and convenient access to Pennsylvania State University.

1. Saybrook

Safety index: ~90+ very high

Population: ~2600

Nearest university: 15-20 mins to Penn State University Park

Saybrook is one of the safest places in State College because of strong neighborhood associations, wider roads, suburban planning, reliable transit routes, frequent police patrols, well-lit streets, and low traffic. It is located on the northwestern edge of State College, and it is one of the low-crime areas in State College

2. Holmes Foster

Safety index: ~85 high

Population: ~3800

Nearest university: 5-10 mins to Pennsylvania State University

Holmes Foster is located just north of downtown State College, very close to Penn State. It is popular among students for cafes, bookstores,libararies and local art spaces ,it is close to residential parks and has easy walking access to campus. It has a mixed residential neighborhood with students and long-term residents. it is calm and one of the safest places in State College, as per the students .safety mesures like neighborhood watch programs and regular police reponses helps keep crime rates low in this area.

3. Foxpointe

Safety index: ~88 very high

Population: ~2900

Nearest university: 10-15 mins to Pennsylvania State University

Foxponte is located on the southwest of the main campus and is slightly farther from downtown. It has well-maintained apartments and student accommodations, which are popular among international students. Easy access to shopping centers, bus routes, and walkability make it a suitable place for students. It has residential comfort, and due to constant patrolling, it results in fewer reported incidents.

4. College Heights

Safety index : ~82 high

Population: ~4200

Nearest university: 5-10 mins to Pennsylvania State University

College Heights is one of the oldest neighborhoods in State College and is known for its historic homes and stable residential environment. It is close to Scenery park and located on north of Penn State's campus . Various safety measures like active watch groups and frequent patrolling are implemented, due to which it is the safest place in State College.

Most Dangerous Places in State College PA

Although there aren't any exceptionally high crime neighborhoods in State College, some parts of the town with dense student populations, vibrant and active nightlife, and lots of foot traffic have higher crime rates than others. The majority of safety concerns arise from property crimes, including theft, vandalism, and vehicle break-ins. Students must know the safest and the most dangerous places in State College to enjoy a safe living environment. Here are some areas to avoid in State College.

1. Downtown State College 

Crime rate: ~20+ per 1000 residents 

Population: ~9500 

Nearest University: walkable and adjacent Pennsylvania State University 

It is directly adjacent to Penn State's main campus, and it is known as cities comercial and nightlife hub. It has bars, clubs, restaurants, and late-night food spots. Student gatherings and events are frequent here. It has high foot traffic, nightlife, and alcohol consumption, which leads to theft, vandalism, and assaults, especially at night. It is a high crime areas in State College and a dangerous place.

2. State College Central 

Crime rate: ~22-28 per 1000 residents 

Population: ~9500 +

Nearest University: Adjacent to Penn State University 

These zones see more frequent thefts, vandalism, and alcohol related incidents. As it has a high student density proprty crime and assault incidents are reported. It has student housing and shared rentals, and noise complaints and property damage are common.

3. Northern University Park 

Crime rate: ~19+ per 1000 residents 

Population: ~42,000

Nearest University: 5-10 minutes Penn State University 

It is the direct surroundings of Penn State's academic buildings and dorm zones. It has a heavy student movement during the day and night. Due to heavy foot traffic, bicycle thefts, bag snatching, and unattended item theft are common, and late-night social gathering leads to minor assaults.

4. Atherton Street corridors 

Crime rate: ~17-22 per 1000 residents 

Population: ~41228

Nearest University: 5-15 minutes Penn State University 

It runs through the major commercial streets of State College. It has budget accommodations options nearby, but due to high traffic, mixed land use, and transient movement, it has a high risk of vehicle crime and shoplifting. Disorderly conduct and assaults are seen.

Best student accommodations in State college PA

State College is one of the most lively college towns in the United States, centered on Pennsylvania State University and with a significant student population. Which grow dramatically during the academic year. The city provides a diverse range of accommodation alternatives from low-cost shared apartments to fully equipped Pennsylvania housing options. Finding suitable student housing can be difficult particularly for international students or first time renters, thats where amber come in, it is an online platform that allows students to compare and book verified student accommodations with clear pricing, flexible contacts and modern facilities, whether you are looking for shared space, studio apartment or bigger group flats Ambers listings will help you locate a home that fits your lifestyle.

Here are some top safe student Accommodations in State college PA:

1. The View, State College – Modern 2-3 bedroom apartments with gym, pool, game room, and hiking trail access, ideal for students wanting a balance of comfort and convenience. From $919 / month

2. The Valley, State College – Spacious 1-5 bedroom units featuring fully-furnished apartments, study lounges, and poolside hammocks, just a short bus ride from campus life. From $959 / month

3. The Villas at Happy Valley – Community-oriented complex with 24-hour fitness center, game rooms, and resort-style pool, perfect for active students and social living. From $905 / month

4. Aspen State College, State College – Stylish 1-5 bedroom apartments with pool, pet-friendly spaces, sky lounges, and group study rooms, close to academics and local amenities. From $1060 / month

5. Rise At State College – Larger property near downtown with a club lounge, outdoor amenity deck, and dedicated study spaces, great for graduate students and community living. From $1179 / month

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