Each neighborhood has its own appeal, from quiet, tree-lined streets to vibrant local scenes. Whether you’re a young professional or raising a family, here are Brooklyn’s top safe neighborhoods to consider for your next move:

Park Slope

Park Slope is often the first neighborhood mentioned when talking about safe, family-friendly Brooklyn. This charming area adjacent to Prospect Park is famous for its historic brownstones, stroller-filled sidewalks, and strong community feel. It consistently ranks as one of Brooklyn’s safest neighborhoods – families love that the crime rate here is significantly lower than borough and national averages​. In fact, violent crime in Park Slope is rare; its overall crime rate is roughly 38% lower than the Brooklyn average​, making residents feel secure on its peaceful streets.

Why Park Slope is Safe & Appealing

• Low Crime & Community Watch: Park Slope benefits from an active community and local precinct that help keep crime low. The neighborhood sees only about 12 non-violent crimes per 1,000 residents​, roughly 40% below the U.S. average, so day or night people feel comfortable out and about.
• Great Schools: The area is home to top-rated public schools and numerous playgrounds, attracting many young families. This focus on family life contributes to a safe, neighborly atmosphere.
• Walkability & Amenities: With a Walk Score of 97 (a “walker’s paradise”), day-to-day needs are within a few minutes’ walk​. Residents enjoy boutique shops, bookstores, cafés, and farmers markets, plus cultural institutions like the Brooklyn Museum just nearby. The lively 5th and 7th Avenues provide plenty of dining without compromising safety.
• Green Spaces: Bordering Prospect Park – Brooklyn’s iconic 500+ acre park – Park Slope offers abundant outdoor space for jogging, picnics, or walking the dog. Well-lit, busy park entrances and regular community events mean the park areas feel safe, too.

Park Slope’s laid-back yet vibrant environment, combined with its low crime and close-knit community vibe, make it an ideal spot for those seeking city conveniences in a safe, suburban-like setting. It’s no wonder Park Slope is the epitome of a safe Brooklyn neighborhood for so many who move here​

Brooklyn Heights

Brooklyn Heights is a picturesque waterfront enclave known for its elegant brownstones and postcard-worthy views of Manhattan. It has long been regarded as one of the safest neighborhoods in all of New York City​. Crime rates in Brooklyn Heights are extremely low – a fact that comes as no surprise given this area’s history as America’s first commuter suburb (dating back to the 1800s). With quiet, tree-lined streets and a small-town feel, Brooklyn Heights offers peace of mind that’s hard to match in an urban setting.

• Safety & Community: This neighborhood’s crime rate is about 52% lower than the Brooklyn average​, and residents describe it as a place where it’s common to see neighbors chatting on the sidewalks and children playing on the serene streets. The presence of many longtime residents and neighborhood associations helps maintain a safe environment. From well-kept stoops to the iconic Brooklyn Heights Promenade (a popular spot for strolling with skyline views), the area feels closely watched and cared for.
• Family-Friendly Perks: Brooklyn Heights also boasts highly regarded schools and daycares, which draw families to the area. Local PS8 and a number of private schools serve the community, and the low traffic volume on most streets adds to parents’ comfort. There are several pocket parks and playgrounds, and the expansive Brooklyn Bridge Park is just steps away, offering activities for all ages in a safe, monitored setting.
• Walkability & Access: With its proximity to Manhattan, Brooklyn Heights offers easy commutes (multiple subway lines) while retaining a calm atmosphere at night. It’s extremely walkable – you can run most errands on foot – and the streets are well-lit. The neighborhood’s historic character (beautiful churches, charming cafes, and 19th-century architecture on every corner) comes with a friendly community that looks out for one another, enhancing the feeling of safety. All of this makes Brooklyn Heights a wonderful place to live for those seeking safety, beauty, and convenience​.

Bay Ridge

Located in southwest Brooklyn along New York Harbor, Bay Ridge is renowned for its safe, close-knit community vibe​. This unpretentious, family-oriented neighborhood has a more suburban feel, with quiet residential blocks and water views. Bay Ridge consistently logs one of the lowest crime rates in Brooklyn, and it’s often highlighted as a model for neighborhood safety​. It’s a diverse area where generations of families have stayed, contributing to a strong community fabric that helps keep the streets secure.

• Safety Stats: Crime statistics back up Bay Ridge’s reputation. By one measure, Bay Ridge sees only about 5.9 non-violent incidents per 1,000 people – exceedingly low for NYC​. Overall, its crime rate is 45% lower than the Brooklyn average​ and well below citywide norms. Residents commonly cite the well-lit streets, vigilant neighbors, and active NYPD presence (the 68th Precinct) as reasons they feel very safe here. It’s not uncommon for families to know their local beat cops by name.
• Community & Lifestyle: Part of what makes Bay Ridge appealing is its balance of urban amenities and a laid-back lifestyle. Third Avenue and Fifth Avenue serve as the neighborhood’s main commercial strips, full of diners, bakeries, mom-and-pop shops, and restaurants – all bustling by day and calm by night. The community is engaged: block associations and community boards are active in keeping the area clean, safe, and family-friendly. Many Bay Ridge residents have been in the neighborhood for decades, creating a neighborly atmosphere where people watch out for each other.
• Family-Friendly Features: This area is dotted with playgrounds and quality schools, making it ideal for those with kids. Bay Ridge also boasts breathtaking waterfront parks​. The Shore Road Park and Owl’s Head Park offer walking/biking paths with views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and they are well-used by locals. These open spaces are regularly patrolled and feel secure even in the evenings. If you crave a quiet, safe haven within the city, Bay Ridge checks all the boxes. It offers a retreat from the frenzy of Manhattan with a safety record that gives residents peace of mind, plus a friendly community spirit that welcomes newcomers.

Cobble Hill

 

Cobble Hill is a small, village-like neighborhood nestled in the northwestern part of Brooklyn, adjacent to Brooklyn Heights. Known for its gorgeous 19th-century brownstones and boutique-lined streets, Cobble Hill also enjoys an excellent safety reputation. The crime rate here is about 48% lower than the Brooklyn average​, making it one of the borough’s safest spots. With a mix of young professionals and families, Cobble Hill offers a cozy, upscale atmosphere where people feel comfortable walking around at any hour.

• Safe Streets & Schools: Residents of Cobble Hill benefit from both low crime and top-notch local amenities. The neighborhood’s total crime rate is roughly 29% lower than the New York City average​, and violent crimes are especially rare. It helps that Cobble Hill is a tight-knit community – people tend to know their neighbors and keep an eye out for each other’s homes. The area is also home to some excellent schools and daycare centers, which attract families and contribute to the safe, kid-friendly environment. For example, PS 29 and nearby schools in Carroll Gardens have strong reputations, and you’ll often see parents with children enjoying the area’s peaceful playgrounds (like Cobble Hill Park).
• Walkability & Leisure: With its quaint, tree-lined blocks, Cobble Hill is extremely walkable and has a slower pace that encourages foot traffic. Boutique shops, artisanal cafes, and the historic Cobble Hill Cinemas are all within a few blocks, so there’s plenty to do locally without needing to venture far. Despite being so quiet, Cobble Hill also offers easy access to bustling areas – you can walk to Brooklyn Bridge Park or to adjacent Carroll Gardens and Boerum Hill for more restaurants and nightlife, then return to Cobble Hill’s calm streets. Neighbors often greet each other on morning dog walks or at the popular weekly farmers market, reflecting the welcoming vibe. Police presence from the nearby precinct (76th Precinct) is responsive, and community meetings are held to address any concerns quickly. Overall, Cobble Hill’s blend of historic charm and safety makes it a coveted neighborhood. It manages to feel like a peaceful small town tucked within the big city – an ideal place if you’re seeking security, convenience, and classic Brooklyn character all at once.

Dyker Heights

If a suburban feel with city conveniences is what you’re after, Dyker Heights in southwest Brooklyn deserves a spot on your list. This quaint residential neighborhood is celebrated as the safest neighborhood in Brooklyn by crime statistics – with a crime rate about 45% lower than the national average​. Dyker Heights is an idyllic enclave of neat yards, detached homes, and quiet avenues. It’s known for its close-knit, predominantly homeowner community (many families here for generations) and famously lavish Christmas light displays each winter. Above all, it’s prized for its peaceful, low-crime environment that feels far removed from the hustle of downtown.

• Crime and Safety: Dyker Heights has an exceptionally low crime rate even compared to other safe areas. With roughly 1,273 crimes per 100,000 residents, it’s about 77% safer than New York City overall​. Violent crime is almost negligible here – the violent crime rate is 73% lower than the city average​, which means incidents like robberies or assaults are very uncommon. This stellar safety record is one reason Dyker is considered ideal for families and retirees alike. Neighbors tend to know each other, and community watch programs (informal and formal) add an extra layer of security. The local 68th Precinct (shared with Bay Ridge) has a strong presence and quick response time, although many residents will tell you they rarely hear sirens in this part of Brooklyn.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The neighborhood streets are wide, clean, and lined with trees – perfect for stroller walks and kids riding bikes. Good schools (both public and private, including numerous parochial schools) serve the area. You’ll also find many daycare centers, summer camps, and after-school programs, reflective of the many young children in the community. Parks and playgrounds, like Dyker Beach Park and the golf course, provide safe recreation spaces. During holidays, Dyker Heights transforms into a destination for families across NYC to admire the elaborate decorations – a beloved tradition that further showcases the community’s unity and pride.
• Lifestyle: While Dyker Heights is quieter than other Brooklyn spots, it has its share of conveniences. Small mom-and-pop shops and cafes dot the avenues, and you’re a short walk or drive to the larger commercial strips in neighboring Bay Ridge or Bensonhurst for more shopping. The neighborhood has a strong Italian-American heritage (great bakeries and eateries abound) alongside growing Chinese and other communities – all of whom contribute to its friendly, safe ambiance. Public transit is available (D and R subway lines nearby, and local buses), though many residents own cars. At night, Dyker’s streets are calm and soundless, and that tranquility – combined with the very low crime – means many consider it Brooklyn’s ultimate safe haven for raising a family​

Greenpoint

Situated at Brooklyn’s northern tip, Greenpoint has transformed from a historic Polish enclave into a trendy yet tranquil neighborhood that many call home. One of Greenpoint’s big draws is that it remains very safe while offering a hip, artsy vibe. Crime rates are low and have been dropping for years, with residents saying they feel very secure in this neighborhood​. Greenpoint combines a residential feel – complete with tree-lined streets and a strong local community – with the bonus of new restaurants, bars, and waterfront parks, all while maintaining a laid-back atmosphere.

• Safety and Community: Greenpoint consistently reports below-average crime for NYC, and local precinct data often shows few major incidents month to month. Violent crimes in particular are uncommon here. The neighborhood’s safety is bolstered by its strong community networks; many families and long-time residents still live here alongside newcomers. It’s the kind of place where block parties and neighborhood Facebook groups are active, contributing to that “small town in the big city” feeling. On summer evenings, you’ll see people sitting on their stoops or chatting outside cafes, which keeps the streets lively and safe. The 94th Precinct community council meetings are well-attended by Greenpoint residents, reflecting how invested locals are in keeping the area safe and improving quality of life.
• Local Highlights: Part of what makes Greenpoint special is its blend of old and new. You’ll find historic Polish bakeries and churches alongside trendy coffee shops and art studios. Franklin Street and Manhattan Avenue are the main hubs of activity – lined with cozy eateries, vintage shops, and bars – but even these feel friendly and relaxed. Late-night party crowds are not as much a feature here as in neighboring Williamsburg, which helps keep Greenpoint quieter and safer. Instead, the nightlife is more about a craft beer at a low-key bar or an indie music show attended by local artists. According to community surveys, Greenpoint residents appreciate that they can enjoy these amenities without worrying much about crime or safety issues.
• Green Space & Walkability: Greenpoint’s waterfront has seen revitalization, adding parks like the WNYC Transmitter Park and the expansive new Bushwick Inlet Park just at its border. These areas are well-maintained and frequented by joggers, families, and picnickers; they also have security patrols, which contribute to the overall safe environment. Greenpoint is very walkable – you can easily stroll to grocery stores, schools, or the local library. The area’s industrial past means some blocks are still very quiet (former warehouses turned studios or empty lots awaiting development), but even those have improved lighting and occasional patrols to ensure they’re safe shortcuts. The community’s advocacy has led to better street lighting and cleaner streets over the years, too. In short, Greenpoint offers a safe haven with a creative spirit. It’s one of Brooklyn’s safest neighborhoods and an excellent option for those who want a relaxed, neighborhood feel but also quick access to hotspots in Williamsburg or even Manhattan (a ferry or G train ride away)​. For young professionals, families, and long-time New Yorkers alike, Greenpoint’s safety, charm, and sense of community make it highly desirable.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is one of Brooklyn’s most iconic neighborhoods, known for its hipster culture, booming art and music scene, and nightlife. But how does it fare in terms of safety? Thanks to significant gentrification over the past two decades, Williamsburg has seen crime rates drop dramatically, and today it is broadly considered as safe as most anywhere in NYC​. While it may not boast the ultra-low crime stats of Park Slope or Dyker Heights, violent crime in Williamsburg is quite rare and residents generally feel secure walking around, even at night​. The neighborhood’s reputation has shifted from gritty to trendy – and safe – making it a top choice for many newcomers to Brooklyn.

• Safety in Williamsburg: According to data aggregators, Williamsburg’s violent crime rate is now below the NYC average​. The area is split between the 90th and 94th NYPD Precincts, and both report low incidents of serious crimes these days. Long-time residents might recall higher crime in the past, but the transformation is evident: streets that were once industrial and empty are now lined with new apartment buildings, restaurants, and boutiques, bringing more foot traffic and security. As one local observation noted, Williamsburg is pretty safe, but like anywhere, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings​ – a good rule of thumb in any city neighborhood. Overall, constant activity on main drags like Bedford Avenue and Wythe Avenue means there are usually people around, which increases safety. Areas by the waterfront and in North Williamsburg, filled with parks and night markets, are well-patrolled and well-lit. Even the quieter residential sections of South Williamsburg have block watches and community patrols in place. PropertyClub ranks Williamsburg among Brooklyn’s safest neighborhoods now​, which speaks to how far it has come.
• Appeal for Movers: Williamsburg holds massive appeal for young professionals, creatives, and students – basically anyone who enjoys a vibrant urban lifestyle. The bonus is they can have that and feel safe. You’ll find families with strollers here too, especially in the prettier streets near the waterfront or around McCarren Park, drawn by improved safety and new schools and playgrounds that have opened as the population grew. The lifestyle in Williamsburg is more energetic than in, say, Bay Ridge: there are countless bars, live music venues, galleries, and late-night eateries. But the neighborhood manages this bustle responsibly. Many establishments hire their own security, and the community works with police on nightlife noise and safety initiatives.
• Neighborhood Life: By day, Williamsburg is bustling with freelancers in coffee shops, shoppers perusing vintage stores, and residents biking around (bike lanes are plentiful). By night, the main avenues are alive with diners and bar-hoppers. Through it all, Williamsburg maintains a “village” vibe in pockets – think street fairs, food markets like Smorgasburg, and community gardens – which helps neighbors bond and look out for each other. As one Quora user summed up, all of Williamsburg would be considered as safe as anywhere in NYC​, especially now that it’s a highly sought-after area. For someone moving to Brooklyn who wants a dynamic, trendy neighborhood with a generally safe environment, Williamsburg is hard to beat.

DUMBO

The iconic view of the Manhattan Bridge from DUMBO’s cobblestone streets. This upscale Brooklyn neighborhood is not only scenic but also one of the borough’s safest. DUMBO – short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass – is one of Brooklyn’s most upscale and desirable neighborhoods, and it consistently ranks as one of the safest. Once an industrial zone of warehouses, DUMBO is now known for its stunning loft apartments, tech startups, art galleries, and of course, that famous photo-spot on Washington Street with the Manhattan Bridge looming large. Despite the influx of tourists and daytime workers, DUMBO manages to remain extremely safe for residents. It’s a relatively small neighborhood with a close community, and many New Yorkers dream of moving here for its mix of style and safety​.

• Safety Factors: Simply put, DUMBO is a very safe neighborhood to live or raise a family​. Crime rates here are minimal – violent crime is particularly scarce. The area’s total crime numbers are low, partly due to its size and partly due to private security employed by some luxury buildings and Business Improvement District patrols that supplement police presence. Because DUMBO has become a tech and business hub (companies like Etsy and West Elm have had headquarters here), there’s 24/7 security around certain office buildings that inadvertently benefits the whole neighborhood. Tourists flocking to Brooklyn Bridge Park and the historic Jane’s Carousel are generally respectful, and the park itself is heavily policed and monitored by park staff. All this means residents enjoy clean, secure streets. It’s not uncommon for locals to note that DUMBO feels like an extension of Manhattan in terms of safety standards, but with a quieter, community-oriented twist.
• Lifestyle & Amenities: DUMBO’s appeal isn’t just its safety – it’s the vibrant lifestyle combined with that peace of mind. High-end restaurants, trendy cafes, and indie bookstores are sprinkled between art studios and sleek office spaces. The neighborhood regularly hosts cultural events like outdoor film screenings, music festivals, and gallery walks. Even during large events, things remain orderly. At night, DUMBO’s cobblestone streets are calm, lit by old-fashioned street lamps and the glow of the bridge. Residents can walk along the waterfront at midnight and feel at ease, which is a huge draw for those who prioritize security. The community in DUMBO, while perhaps more transient (with many young professionals renting luxury apartments), is quite engaged – there are neighborhood meet-ups, volunteer clean-up days, and active online forums where people share tips and watch out for each other.
• Family-Friendly Side: Though known for its chic image, DUMBO is also surprisingly family-friendly. You’ll see parents with toddlers at the waterfront playgrounds and taking classes at the local art studios. The area is zoned for good schools in nearby Brooklyn Heights and Downtown Brooklyn, and several new schools have opened as the population grows. Because it’s so safe, kids here often walk to the ice cream shop or bookstore with minimal supervision, something you might not expect in a city environment. All these factors combined – low crime, engaged community, great recreation spaces – make DUMBO a secure and attractive neighborhood for virtually everyone.

Closing Thoughts

Brooklyn’s safest neighborhoods each offer something unique – from the historic brownstone charm of Park Slope and Brooklyn Heights, to the quiet suburban feel of Dyker Heights and Kensington, to the hip energy of Williamsburg and the waterfront luxury of DUMBO. What they all share are lower crime rates, active communities, and a quality of life that attracts people from all over.

As Brooklyn continues to grow and change, these neighborhoods have held onto that all-important sense of safety alongside their character and amenities​. If you’re planning a move to Brooklyn, focusing on safety and neighborhood vibe is a smart way to narrow your search. Once you’ve found your ideal community – be it a peaceful enclave or a buzzing cultural hub – you’ll want your move to go just as smoothly. That’s where we come in. Expo Movers is here to help you relocate to Brooklyn’s safest neighborhoods with ease and confidence.

Our experienced team has moved countless families and individuals in NYC, and we understand the streets and buildings of Brooklyn inside and out. From packing up your current home to navigating that brownstone walk-up or high-rise elevator, we take care of the heavy lifting so you can settle into your new safe haven stress-free. Ready to make one of these wonderful Brooklyn neighborhoods your home? Contact Expo Movers for a free moving quote, and let us handle the logistics. With the right neighborhood and the right moving partner, you’ll be on your way to enjoying everything Brooklyn has to offer – securely and happily – in no time.