Safest Neighbourhoods in Exeter: 8 Reliable and Safe Student Areas

Moving to a new city for university can be exciting, but safety should always come first. While Exeter is one of the safest university cities in the South West of England, safety levels can still vary by neighborhood. That’s why choosing the safest neighbourhood in Exeter becomes essential for students planning to live off-campus. Exeter in the United Kingdom is home to one of the most respected universities in the region – the University of Exeter. As an educational institution, it hosts thousands of domestic and international students each year, whether you are taking classes near the campus at Streatham or searching for safest places in Exeter for students. To stay safe as a commuter student or someone attending night class, you must understand the current local crime trends. While crime rates in Exeter are relatively low compared to other student cities in the UK, finding the right location can give you the peace of mind you need. The following is a guide in helping students in Exeter find the best and safest place to stay using crime statistics, student opinions, transportation facilities, walkability, and public infrastructure. This study primarily relies on crime statistics from official police databases and websites such as the Police UK Crime Map and CrimeRate Exeter Statistics. Beyond academics, living in Exeter offers students access to beautiful green spaces, lively cafés, independent restaurants, and a social scene centered around Exeter city centre. From enjoying great coffee Exeter cafés to exploring the best bars in Exeter and student-friendly Exeter clubs, the city balances safety with student lifestyle exceptionally well. If you’re looking for secure Exeter accommodation, here are the safest student-friendly areas worth considering.

Top Safest Neighbourhoods in Exeter

While Exeter is often seen as a safe and student-friendly city, certain neighbourhoods report higher levels of crime than others. Understanding these variations can help students make more informed housing decisions before moving. The areas below highlight parts of Exeter where crime in Exeter is more frequently reported, helping you identify which locations may require extra awareness when choosing accommodation.

1. Pennsylvania

Crime rate: ~42 crimes per 1,000 residents

Safety index: 89/100

Walkability score: 84/100
Best for: University students, international students, postgraduate students 

Pennsylvania is widely regarded as one of the safer residential areas in Exeter, particularly for students attending the University of Exeter. Its close proximity to Streatham Campus makes it a highly convenient location, while still maintaining a calm and predominantly residential character. The area is largely made up of student housing and family homes, which contributes to a stable and secure environment with less disruptive activity compared to busier parts of the city.

Why is Pennsylvania safe?
This neighbourhood has low rates of violence, a strong sense of community, and constant presence of students because it is very close to the campus. The streets are usually quiet, clean, and frequently walked by students who go to lectures, thus increasing safety levels.

Why students choose Pennsylvania
Students like living in Pennsylvania because of the short distance to Exeter University and the safe environment in which it is located. The safe environment of Pennsylvania makes it one of the best choices among freshmen and international students.

Amenities & nearby facilities
There are many cafes, small shops, and study centers for students. It also boasts a good location, with easy access to Exeter's city center. When it comes to medical facilities, the nearest one would be Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford).

2. St Leonards

Crime rate: ~47 crimes per 1,000 residents
Safety index: 87/100
Walkability score: 88/100
Average monthly rent: £850–£1,500
Best for: International students

St Leonards This location is considered one of the most sought after residential zones in Exeter. It is conveniently situated within close proximity of the downtown area as well as the university campus. It comprises expensive real estate, a lot of trees, and a tightly knit community. Despite being centrally located, it remains quite safe.

Why is St Leonards safe?
The neighborhood is also characterized by active community participation, street lighting, and a high presence of permanent residents. The relative permanence of the residents, coupled with reduced antisocial behavior compared to nightlife areas, contributes to the general safety of the area.

Why students choose St Leonards
St Leonards is chosen by students, especially by those studying medicine and postgraduate courses, because it is located close to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford) and the University of Exeter Medical School. This neighborhood also provides a more relaxed atmosphere than other student neighborhoods.

Amenities & nearby facilities
St Leonards offers great coffee shops, boutiques, and local dining establishments. It also offers proximity to Northernhay Gardens and the centre of the city of Exeter.

3. Heavitree

Crime rate: ~51 crimes per 1,000 residents
Safety index: 83/100
Walkability score: 80/100
Average monthly rent: £700–£1,250
Best for: Budget-conscious students

Heavitree is an established neighborhood that lies slightly to the east of Exeter’s city center. It is favored by students who wish to have accommodation that is less expensive yet conveniently situated near the University of Exeter.

Why is Heavitree safe?
Community involvement is evident in the location, with constant movement and both families and students present. There are slightly more criminal incidents in the area than in Pennsylvania, but most are nonviolent property crimes.

Why students choose Heavitree
Students choose Heavitree for its affordability, good transport links, and proximity to Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford). It is also convenient for those studying healthcare-related courses.

Amenities & nearby facilities
There are supermarkets, cafes, takeaways, and gyms in Heavitree. There is a good bus network for commuting to and from the university and downtown.

4. Topsham

Crime rate: ~38 crimes per 1,000 residents
Safety index: 91/100
Walkability score: 75/100
Average monthly rent: £900–£1,550
Best for: Nature loving students

Topsham is an attractive riverside town on the edge of Exeter, which is regarded by many as one of the safest towns to live in compared to other areas near the city. It provides a peaceful living environment with a sense of community, which draws students seeking peace.

Why is Topsham safe?
Topsham is also blessed with low crime rates, tight-knit communities, and predominantly residential neighborhoods. The town sees minimal nightlife, thereby reducing antisocial activities in the evenings.

Why students choose Topsham
Students choose Topsham for its serene atmosphere, attractive riverside views, and peaceful lifestyle. This location is mainly sought out by postgraduate students who prefer to concentrate on academic work and wellbeing rather than the central city.

Amenities & nearby facilities
Facilities in Topsham include riverside walkways, independent cafes, and small shops. The nearest hospital is the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford), which is only a few minutes’ drive away from the city centre.

5. Pinhoe

Crime rate: ~44 crimes per 1,000 residents
Safety index: 86/100
Walkability score: 73/100
Average monthly rent: £700–£1,300
Best for: Budget-conscious students, international students

Pinhoe is a suburb situated in the north-eastern region of Exeter. Pinhoe is mainly residential and features relatively peaceful areas, making it a suitable option for students on a budget who need a certain level of safety.

Why is Pinhoe safe?
Pinhoe enjoys relatively low rates of violent crimes and features a stable residential community. The lack of entertainment venues means Pinhoe has little nightlife.

Why students choose Pinhoe
Students choose Pinhoe mainly for lower rent options and good transport connections to the city centre and university. It offers a quieter alternative to central student-heavy neighbourhoods.

Amenities & nearby facilities
The area includes supermarkets, local pubs, and takeaway outlets. It is well connected by train and bus routes to Exeter city centre and the University of Exeter. Healthcare access is supported via Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford).

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6. Exwick

Crime rate: ~46 crimes per 1,000 residents
Safety index: 85/100
Walkability score: 77/100
Average monthly rent: £700–£1,250
Best for: International students, budget-conscious students

Exwick is a residential suburb located west of Exeter city centre, known for its affordability and relatively calm environment. It is popular among students looking for budget-friendly accommodation with decent access to central Exeter.

Why is Exwick safe?
This place has a moderate crime rate, but it is fairly stable since it has a residential character and less nightlife. In most cases, crime has been non-violent and property-based.

Why students choose Exwick
Students choose Exwick for its lower rent, peaceful environment, and good transport links into the city. It offers a balance between affordability and accessibility.

Amenities & nearby facilities
The area boasts its own shops, recreational parks, and takeaways. It offers proximity to riverside walks around the River Exe. In terms of health care, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford) is still the closest facility.

7. Countess Wear

Crime rate: ~41 crimes per 1,000 residents
Safety index: 88/100
Walkability score: 72/100
Average monthly rent: £800–£1,400
Best for: Mature students, postgraduate students

Countess Wear is a peaceful residential area located near the River Exe, offering a village-like environment within easy reach of Exeter city centre. It is considered one of the calmer and more stable neighbourhoods in the city.

Why is Countess Wear safe?
The village of Countess Wear enjoys the advantage of sparse populations, no nightlife, and tight-knit communities. Low antisocial behavior characterizes the village, giving it high safety levels.

Why students choose Countess Wear
Students prefer Countess Wear because it is located in an area that gives them peace of mind. It provides perfect tranquility to those individuals that study better in such environments.

Amenities & nearby facilities
The area offers riverside walks, local pubs, and green open spaces. It is also well connected to Exeter city centre via road and bus links. Healthcare services are accessible via Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford).

8. St Thomas

Crime rate: ~55 crimes per 1,000 residents
Safety index: 80/100
Walkability score: 86/100
Average monthly rent: £650–£1,150
Best for: Undergraduate students seeking affordable housing

St Thomas is one of the most easily accessible residential neighborhoods within the city of Exeter as it lies on the other side of the river from the city center. St Thomas is a favorite among students because it is affordable and well-connected, although crime rates are relatively high.

Why is St Thomas safe?
Though the crime rate in St Thomas is fairly decent, almost all crimes involve property and happen in busier locations that are close to transportation pathways. The residential areas themselves are fairly stable.

Why students choose St Thomas
Students choose St Thomas for its close proximity to the city centre, affordable housing, and strong transport links to the University of Exeter.

Amenities & nearby facilities
St Thomas offers supermarkets, cafés, and high street shops. It is within walking distance of Exeter city centre and has direct access to Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford).

Student Safety Checklist: Exeter Edition

1. Get To Know Your Area before Late Nights
Take some time to explore nearby grocery stores, bus stations, pharmacies, and safe walking routes before late evenings become an issue.

2. Don’t Take Shortcuts in the Dark
Although Google Maps might offer a shortcut at night, try not to choose less frequented, quiet streets and parks as the routes even on your way back from the Exeter city centre or the university library.

3. Ensure Safety in Student Accommodation
Consider how safe yourstudent accommodation in Exeter is by choosing the one with door entry, security cameras, enough street lighting, and a responsible maintenance team.

4. Take Advantage of University Facilities

Many universities have their wellbeing services, campus security officers, and student helplines that can come in handy from time to time.

5. Get Updates through Student Networks
Subscribing to university WhatsApp chats or Facebook groups will allow you to keep abreast of changes in the transport system, be aware of local fraudsters, find accommodation, and learn about safe places to stay.

6. Plan Safe Travel
When going out in the evening, always check when the last bus or train is leaving to make a reasonable budget for your journey.

Picking the safest neighborhood in Exeter will certainly give your college experience an edge and make everything easier and more convenient for you. Be it Pennsylvania, St Leonards, Topsham, or Exwick, there is no doubt that these neighbourhoods have their advantages. These neighbourhoods provide a strong foundation, allowing students to focus more on academics and less on safety concerns. By choosing safest places in Exeter, students can enjoy everything from vibrant university life to evenings in Exeter city centre with confidence.

Also Read: 10 Safest Neighborhoods in Austin For Students

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