Top 7 Safest Neighborhoods to live in Washington, DC with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Population: 24,311 (2021)
• Crime rate: 0.21 crimes per 1000 people

Foxhall Crescent is our top pick for the best neighborhood in Washington, DC; it is widely recognized for its tranquil atmosphere. Locals praise the area’s safety and well-maintained streets.

The neighborhood is close to parks, including Glover-Archbold Park and Battery Kemble Park, which provide plenty of outdoor activities. 

For safety, it has a total of 0.21 crimes per 1,000 people.

Point2Homes (2021) & DC Crime Cards (2023)

• Population: 9,815 (2020)
• Crime rate: 0.31 crimes per 1000 people

The Washington hawthorn tree, which has showy white flowers in the spring and bright red fruit in the fall, is where the name Hawthorne came from. 

Locals appreciate the close-in tranquil neighborhood of Hawthorne in Northwest DC, which offers residents a natural setting as well as the convenience of proximity to downtown DC and Rock Creek Park.

For safety, it has a total of 0.31 crimes per 1,000 people, making it a safe place to live. 

City Data (2020) & DC Crime Cards (2023)

• Population: 15,087 (2020)
• Crime rate: 0.53 crimes per 1000 people

Spring Valley has quiet streets and rolling hills that give the neighborhood a suburban feel, even though it’s conveniently close to the big-city landmarks that D.C. offers.

Locals often praise the neighborhood for being a great community, and people are very engaged. Overall, Spring Valley’s serene setting and access to amenities make it one of the best neighborhoods in the Washington, DC, area for young professionals and families seeking a premium living experience.

For safety, it has a total of 0.53 crimes per 1,000 people, adding a sense of security to the residents.

City Data (2020) & DC Crime Cards (2023)

• Population: 13,477 (2021)
• Crime rate: 1.26 crimes per 1000 people

Palisades boasts a diverse range of restaurants and businesses and is consistently rated as one of DC’s most walkable neighborhoods. 

Locals appreciate the neighborhood’s closeness to parks such as Palisades Park, which provide green space and opportunities for recreation.

For safety, it has a total of 1.26 crimes per 1,000 people, making it a safe place to live.

Point2Homes (2021) & DC Crime Cards (2023)

• Population: 2,873 (2021)
• Crime rate: 3.48 crimes per 1000 people

Chevy Chase is one of the best neighborhoods to live in Washington, DC, due to its upscale and family-friendly ambiance. It offers an ideal blend of suburbs and city.

Locals appreciate the area’s proximity to parks like Rock Creek Park, and this neighborhood has leafy residential neighborhoods.

Overall, Chevy Chase’s attractive setting makes it an ideal residential area for individuals and families seeking a premium living experience in Washington, D.C.

For safety, it has a total of 3.48 crimes per 1,000 people, adding a sense of security to the residents.

City Data (2021) & DC Crime Cards (2023)

• Population: 40,716 (2021)
• Crime rate: 5.84 crimes per 1000 people

Congress Heights is considered one of the safest neighborhoods to live in Washington, DC, due to its community-oriented ambiance. Locals praise the area for its improved safety and community activities that foster positive interactions within the neighborhood.

Congress Heights provide access to parks like Oxon Run Park and Congress Heights Recreation, which offer outdoor activities. It is a place for exciting sports events, live music, and arts and culture centers.

For safety, it has a total of 5.84 crimes per 1,000 people, making it one of the safest neighborhoods to live in Washington, DC.

Point2Homes (2021) & DC Crime Cards (2023)

• Population: 40,716 (2021)
• Crime rate: 7.44 crimes per 1000 people

Bellevue is a residential area in Southwest Washington, D.C., located east of Bolling Air Force Base. Locals praise this neighborhood for its abundant green spaces, cost-effective housing choices, and upscale shopping and dining amenities.

The location provides easy access to the Maryland border, and within the neighborhood, you’ll find a serene suburban atmosphere featuring spacious yards and semi-detached homes.

For safety, it has a total of 7.44 crimes per 1,000 people, making it a safe place to live. 

Point2Homes (2021) & DC Crime Cards (2023)