One of New York City’s five boroughs, Queens boasts a lively and varied environment featuring residential zones, business hubs, and parks. When moving to a new area, safety tends to be the primary concern. Therefore, what are the most secure neighborhoods in Queens that also provide excellent facilities and a strong sense of community?
Queens is the biggest and most rapidly growing borough of New York City. Its local economy primarily relies on tourism (thanks to LaGuardia and JFK airports being located within the area), as well as arts and entertainment, sectors which were once declining in the city.
safest areas in Queens for residence.
If you’re considering moving to Queens, New York City, and want to find the most secure areas within this borough, then look no further! In this piece, we delve into the top neighborhoods in Queens renowned for their minimal criminal activity and friendly atmospheres.
The list of the safest areas in Queens for living has been compiled using data from Area Vibes and Metropolis Moving.
Neighbourhood |
Estimated crime rate per 100,000 inhabitants |
Bellerose |
302 |
Bayside |
1065 |
Auburndale |
1434 |
Forest Hills |
1613 |
Laurelton |
1656 |
Kew Gardens Hills |
1734 |
1. Bellerose
In Eastern Queens, Bellerose is renowned for its tranquil suburban ambiance and serene residential roads. Predominantly residential, the neighborhood features an assortment of small apartment complexes alongside standalone family houses. Its bustling commercial hub lies along Jamaica Avenue, offering a variety of excellent eateries, coffeehouses, and retail stores.
It is conveniently situated near significant transportation centers such as the Long Island Rail Road and multiple key highways, allowing for simple travel to various sections of Manhattan and Queens.
What section of Queens is considered the safest? Without a doubt, Bellerose stands out as the most secure area within Queens. It has an estimated annual total crime rate of 302 incidents for every 100,000 inhabitants.
2. Bayside
Bayside is a neighborhood located in northeastern Queens, characterized as part of the upper-middle class. It ranks among the wealthiest and priciest areas within New York City.
The standalone suburban-type houses in this neighborhood convey an ambiance akin to other affluent areas in Queens like Douglaston and Little Neck. According to reports, the estimated crime rate in Bayside stands at approximately 1,065 incidents for every 100,000 inhabitants.
3. Auburndale
Located in the northeast section of Queens, Auburndale is an attractive upper-middle-class neighborhood. Despite its suburban atmosphere, it stays near the bustling energy of the city.
Families have a particular preference for Auburndale due to its top-notch public schools and amenities like Kissena Park. It’s regarded as one of the most secure neighborhoods in Queens, with an approximate yearly crime rate of 1,434 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants.
4. Forest Hills
Located within the boundaries of ZIP Code 11375, Forest Hills falls under Queens Community District 6. This neighborhood predominantly serves as a residential area situated centrally in Queens, New York. Characterized by rows of tulip trees and Tudor-style homes, Forest Hills offers residents a secure, peaceful, and laid-back environment.
The area features the Forest Hills Stadium, which hosts various events and concerts during the summertime. It also has numerous parks available for those who enjoy nature as well as families with small kids. The estimated yearly total crime rate in Forest Hills is approximately 1,613 incidents per every 100,000 inhabitants.
5. Laurelton
Primarily inhabited by middle-class residents, Laurelton is a neighborhood that was once part of the former township of Jamaica. To its east lies Rosedale, to the north is Cambria Heights, and it borders Springfield Gardens to both the west and south. This area is mainly composed of African Americans who have fostered a vibrant culture and boast an extensive heritage.
Laurelton features tree-shaded roads, nicely kept homes, and a vibrant community spirit. The area includes multiple parks like Brookville Park, which is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. According to estimates, the crime rate in Laurelton stands at approximately 1,656 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants.
6. Kew Gardens Hills
Kew Gardens Hills, a beloved neighborhood in Queens, is conveniently close to multiple expressways such as the Van Wyck Expressway, Grand Central Parkway, Long Island Expressway, and Jackie Robinson Parkway.
Kew Gardens Hills ranks among the top spots to reside in New York due to its vibrant urban atmosphere, with a significant number of homeowners within the community. Educational opportunities for children surpass typical standards, thanks to well-performing local public schools. Additionally, this neighborhood boasts an array of dining options ranging from upscale venues to cozy cafes, alongside ample green spaces like parks. It’s worth noting that according to estimates, Queens experiences approximately 1,734 crimes annually for every 100,000 inhabitants.
Is Queens, New York, considered safe?
Based on NYPD statistics, Queens has seen a decline in serious offenses over recent years. The total crime rate in Queens is below that of many comparable-sized urban centers, which makes it among the safest boroughs within New York City. Nonetheless, similar to other large cities, crime levels differ across various neighborhoods.
Wrapping up
Have you identified the most secure neighborhood in Queens? Regardless of whether you’re looking for a family-oriented area, a lively cultural center, or a peaceful suburban retreat, Queens provides a variety of safe neighborhoods tailored to different preferences. Keep in mind that safety ratings in Queens, New York, may vary, so it’s crucial to stay updated and follow basic safety precautions regardless of which location you pick.
LIFEHACK.co.ke has published an article on some of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York. While this bustling city brims with energy, certain parts have become notorious for their security issues.
Regardless of whether you intend to reside in NYC permanently or just visiting, exploring unknown areas can feel overwhelming. This piece provides insights into the districts within New York City that frequently top the charts when it comes to criminal activity. Check it out for further information.