7 Safest Neighborhoods in Houston: A Data-Driven List

Houston, Texas, is one of the fastest-growing cities — not to mention one of the largest — in the U.S. Because of its low cost of living, abundance of good jobs, and fantastic cultural and entertainment options, lots of folks are making the move to H-Town. And the numbers prove it. In 2024, Houston had the largest numeric growth in the country, adding 105,852 net residents between July 1, 2023, and July 1, 2024. That says a lot about what this city can offer people from all walks of life! But whether you’re looking for warmer weather or a better job, or you just want to start fresh, you’re first going to want to find one of the safest neighborhoods in Houston. 

Planning a move to Houston? Start by getting a quote from PODS.

When you’re thinking about moving to a new city, it’s always important to do your research so you can find a safe, friendly neighborhood to put down roots. And because Houston is a large city with a population of around 2.3 million, there’s naturally going to be some crime. According to NeighborhoodScout, Houston has a crime index of 2 (1 is the most dangerous), and your chances of being a victim of a violent or property crime is 1 in 22. This rate is above both the national median and the state of Texas's median.

Here’s how Houston compares to other Texas cities:

• Dallas has a crime index of 3, and you have a 1 in 22 chance of being a victim of a crime
• Austin has a crime index of 5, and you have a 1 in 24 chance of being a victim of a crime

However, it should be noted that both Dallas and Austin are smaller cities with populations of just above 1.3 million and almost 980,000, respectively.  

Safest Places To Live in Houston — FAQs

Q: What is the nicest area of Houston to live in?
A: Ranked No. 2 on Niche’s list for “2025 Best Cities to Live in America,” and No. 2 on the “2025 Best Cities to Raise a Family in America,” along with an A+ rating for public schools and an A- in both housing and diversity, the Woodlands is considered one of the nicest and safest neighborhoods in Houston.

Q: Which part of Houston is the safest?
A: Some of the best neighborhoods in Houston are on the city's west side.

Q: What is the cheapest place to live in Houston?
A: With an average rent of around $1,100 per month and an average home value of $218,200, Pasadena is one of the most affordable neighborhoods to live in Houston.

Q: Is East Downtown Houston safe?
A: East Downtown – or EaDo – is considered a safe place to live. You’ll feel comfortable walking in this pedestrian-friendly area. Hear about the pros and cons of living in Houston, Texas’s East Downtown neighborhood in this video.

The Safest Places To Live in Houston

Houston has a large population, and there are lots of neighborhoods and suburbs that are safe to live in with easy access to lots of amenities. Depending on your budget, you may be looking for a single-family home or an apartment space in a nice neighborhood in Houston — and there are plenty of those! On this list are lots of walkable neighborhoods in Houston, safe Houston suburbs, and places that would be great for families. We’ve tried to include neighborhoods that meet a variety of budgets, as well, and give you a feel for what kind of Houston neighborhoods these are so you can make a decision that’s best for you.

Kingwood Area isn’t just one of the safest neighborhoods in Houston; it also offers highly rated schools and tons of outdoor activities.
Source: Midway via Katherine Feser via Houston Chronicle

Safest Neighborhoods in Houston 

1. Kingwood Area

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,375
• Average home value: $333,200
• Great for: Families, schools, affordable cost of living
• Crime rate: 41% less crime than Houston overall

One of the safest neighborhoods in Houston is also ranked by Niche as one of the top ten best places to raise a family in Houston. With top schools like Kingwood High School and Snyder Elementary School, you’ll never have to worry about giving your kids an excellent education. And even if you don’t have kids, Kingwood has a lot going for it that any demographic can appreciate. For example, it borders Lake Houston, which means you’ll have ample opportunities to get out on the water to boat, water ski, swim, or have a picnic on the shore at Privilege Beach.

You can also spend time on the green at The Clubs of Kingwood or explore the local wildlife at Lake Houston Wilderness Park. Let the kids play at Fosters Mill Village Pool and then grab some amazing photos at Heron’s Rest. The locals also recommend swinging by Sharky’s Waterfront Grill when you’re in the mood for burgers or fried gator!

2. Downtown

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,400
• Median home sale price: $365,700
• Great for: Young professionals, renters, theatre lovers
• Crime rate: 60% less crime than Houston overall

Is Downtown Houston safe? Yes, forget the stereotypes you have about downtown urban areas — Downtown is actually one of the safest neighborhoods in Houston (and the area is only getting more appealing thanks to several renovations and upgrades before the neighborhood hosts the 2026 World Cup). It’s ideal for young adults, singles, retirees, and anyone else looking for a vibrant mix of urban lifestyle and a strong sense of community.

Centered in the heart of the city, this dynamic district makes it easy to explore all Houston has to offer. Downtown is also a hub for culture and entertainment, with attractions like Discovery Green, the Theater District, and Dalkin Park (Home of the Houston Astros) just steps away. An added bonus? If you live Downtown, you may not have to pay for parking when you head to the ball game. And, whether you're strolling through the lush greenery of Market Square Park or enjoying a show at the Wortham Theater, there's always something exciting happening.

Another reason Downtown is one of the best neighborhoods in Houston? This area is packed with top-rated restaurants, from upscale steakhouses like Vic & Anthony’s to casual favorites like The Rustic. And for those who love staying active, Buffalo Bayou Park offers scenic trails, kayaking, and skyline views, while the YMCA and numerous fitness studios keep wellness within reach.

3. Midtown

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,725
• Average home value: $361,100
• Great for: Young professionals, families, commuters, foodies
• Crime rate: 60% less crime than Houston overall

Centrally located just south of Downtown, Midtown attracts a mix of young professionals, artists, students, and families who are drawn to the urban amenities and community feel of the neighborhood. It offers unbeatable convenience and easy access to major highways, making commutes a breeze, no matter if you work downtown or in a suburban area. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife and walkability, with popular bars, live music venues, and rooftop lounges, like Reset.

Food lovers will thrive here, with an eclectic mix of restaurants, from beloved brunch spots like The Breakfast Klub to the international flavors at Himalaya Restaurant. The neighborhood also boasts plenty of green space, including Elizabeth Baldwin Park, where locals gather for picnics, yoga, and community events. For those who love to stay active, Midtown’s bike-friendly streets make it easy to enjoy the outdoors. 

Houston Neighborhoods To Avoid While every city has unsafe areas, some are worse than others. Here are a few Houston neighborhoods you’ll generally want to avoid: Sunnyside Macgregor Sharpstown Far North

Though technically a suburb, Sugar Land is affectionately considered one of the best neighborhoods in Houston – and one of the most diverse, thanks to its thriving job market.

Safest Houston Suburbs

4. The Woodlands, TX

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,675
• Average home value: $306,200
• Great for: Families, schools, shopping, outdoor activities
• Crime rate: 54% less crime than Houston overall

The Woodlands is a beautiful place to call home and boasts a thriving job market that’s only growing stronger. And the good news just keeps coming for one of the safest areas in Houston. It’s ranked No. 2 on Niche’s list for Best Cities to Raise a Family in America, as there are excellent public and private schools, like Woodlands High School and the John Cooper School, along with plenty of opportunities to keep kids active. 

It’s also called the Woodlands for a reason, as there are plenty of parks and trails to explore, like the Spring Creek Nature Trail, Rob Fleming Park, and Terramont Park. There are not only all kinds of green spaces to enjoy, but you can also enjoy the views and trails near Lake Woodlands, which offers ample places to enjoy a picnic or a barbeque at Cove Park or Northshore Park. 

Want to get out on the lake? Consider joining the local Rowing Club of the Woodlands for a chance to learn something new and have some fun. The Woodlands Country Club is another popular place for folks to golf, play tennis, swim, and enjoy first-class dining. And the Woodlands’ convenient location means you’re never far from necessary amenities like grocery stores, malls, and fun things to do with kids, like the Woodlands Children's Museum. Did we mention that the food scene here is top-notch, with places like The Republic Grille and The Kitchen?

5. Sugar Land, TX

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,625
• Average home value: $422,100
• Great for: Schools, outdoor lifestyle, diversity, variety of jobs
• Crime rate: 18% less crime than Houston overall

Another one of the safest areas Houston has to offer is Sugar Land, which is located southwest of downtown. There are plenty of walkable communities in Sugar Land — like Mayfield Park, Paradise Point, and Venetian Estates — that offer residents the chance to get to know their neighbors better and participate in community events like coffee-tasting workshops, a farmer’s market, and fun exercise opportunities such as Zumba in the Plaza. 

If you or your family are interested in spending more time in nature, Sugar Land also has plenty of public outdoor spaces that offer you the chance to walk, bike, or host a get-together with family and friends. Check out Oyster Creek Park, Brazos River Park, Lost Creek Park, or Eldridge Park, all of which are easily accessible and offer plenty of space to play or relax. 

And lots of Sugar Land residents like to spend time at the Sugar Creek Country Club or the Riverbend Country Club, which offer meticulously maintained golf courses, as well as space to enjoy tennis, pickleball, or a delicious meal in the clubhouse. Because of its proximity to the Houston job market, Sugar Land is also one of the most diverse areas in the city. You’ll easily find cuisine from all over the world, including Pakistani food at Ashar’s Kitchen and South American fare at Churrascos. 

6. West University Place, TX 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,225
• Average home value: $1.7M
• Great for: Walkability, families, commute, nightlife
• Crime rate: 50% less crime than Houston overall

One of the richest neighborhoods in Houston is West University Place, where you’ll find all kinds of beautiful homes — some of which actually date back to the 1930s. Although it’s considered an expensive suburb of Houston, that doesn’t mean the residents aren’t welcoming, as it’s also one of the friendliest (and safest) parts of town. West U has a prime location, so it’s an easy commute almost anywhere. And thanks to its proximity to I-69 and I-610, you can be in downtown Houston in 15 minutes. 

This tight-knit community also has a variety of easy-to-get-to green spaces, so you’re never far from an opportunity to get some exercise or just enjoy some time outdoors. Colonial Park, Judson Park, and Whitt Johnson Park give residents old and young alike a place to play, walk the dog, or take a stroll. The community has a rec center, a library, and plenty to offer foodies, like American fare at Tiny’s No. 5 and delicious Greek cuisine at Kriti Kitchen. 

Rice University is also just a stone’s throw away from West U, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself cheering on the Owls!

7. Pasadena, TX

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,100
• Average home value: $218,200
• Great for: Schools, affordable housing, families
• Crime rate: 39% less crime than Houston overall

If you're looking for a welcoming suburb with small-town charm and big-city convenience, Pasadena — located just southeast of Houston — is a hidden gem worth exploring. Known for its strong sense of community and affordable housing, this area offers a relaxed lifestyle while keeping you close to all the action.

The nearby Port of Houston and NASA’s Johnson Space Center bring plenty of job opportunities to the area. Other employers include BP Amoco, Celanese, and Chevron Phillips Chemical Company. Plus, nature lovers will appreciate Pasadena’s parks and outdoor spaces, including the scenic Armand Bayou Nature Center, where you can kayak through marshes, spot wildlife, and hike peaceful trails. For family fun, the Pasadena Convention Center and nearby Strawberry Water Park are popular spots. The dining scene is a mix of classic Texas flavors and Gulf Coast seafood, with local favorites like Mariscos El General serving up a variety of traditional dishes with fresh ingredients. 

Ready to move to one of the safest neighborhoods in Houston? Let PODS help you with your moving and storage needs.

Move to the Safest Neighborhoods in Houston With PODS

Is Houston a good place to live? With top-notch areas like these, you can’t go wrong if you’re making a move to Space City. Once you’ve settled on your perfect neighborhood, make your move a flexible one with PODS. Have a portable storage container delivered to your driveway for convenient loading. When you’re ready, your container will be picked up and transported to your new Houston home. With one month’s storage built into every PODS move, you can unload at your own pace without feeling rushed.

Editor’s note: Average and median rent prices were obtained from RentCafe, Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow; and median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.