The safest areas to stay in Atlanta are Buckhead, Midtown, Virginia-Highland, Decatur, and Sandy Springs. These neighborhoods are known for lower crime rates, strong police presence, well-lit streets, and easy access to major attractions. Buckhead and Midtown are best for first-time visitors and tourists, while Decatur and Sandy Springs are ideal for families and travelers seeking quieter, residential areas.
Finding a safe place to stay in Atlanta can make or break your trip. Whether you’re visiting for business, sightseeing, concerts, or family travel, choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as picking the right hotel.
This guide breaks down the safest areas to stay in Atlanta, why they’re considered secure, what they’re best for, and the top hotel options travelers trust most.
Why Neighborhood Choice Matters in Atlanta
Atlanta is a large, spread-out city with neighborhoods that vary widely in vibe, safety, and walkability. While many areas are perfectly safe, visitors should prioritize locations with:
- Strong police presence
- Low violent crime rates
- Well-lit streets & active nightlife
- Easy access to attractions & transit
The neighborhoods below consistently rank as the best and safest for visitors.
Top Safest Areas to Stay in Atlanta
Buckhead – Best Overall for Safety & Hotels
Buckhead is widely considered the safest area to stay in Atlanta, especially for first-time visitors.
Why Buckhead is safe:
- Heavy police presence
- Upscale residential & business districts
- High-end shopping and dining
- Well-maintained streets
Best for:
✔️ First-time visitors
✔️ Luxury travelers
✔️ Business trips
Popular hotels:
- InterContinental Buckhead
- JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead
- Grand Hyatt Atlanta
Midtown Atlanta – Safe, Walkable & Central
Midtown offers an ideal balance of safety, walkability, and attractions.
Why Midtown is safe:
- Dense residential population
- Strong security near attractions
- Active nightlife and foot traffic
Best for:
✔️ Tourists
✔️ Couples
✔️ Events & festivals
Nearby attractions:
- Piedmont Park
- Atlanta Botanical Garden
- High Museum of Art
Virginia-Highland – Quiet, Charming & Secure
Virginia-Highland is one of Atlanta’s most peaceful and community-oriented neighborhoods.
Why it’s safe:
- Low crime rates
- Residential streets
- Strong neighborhood presence
Best for:
✔️ Couples
✔️ Relaxed stays
✔️ Boutique hotels & Airbnbs
Decatur – Family-Friendly & Very Safe
Located just east of Atlanta, Decatur is known for its excellent safety record and family-friendly atmosphere.
Why Decatur is safe:
- Independent city police
- Strong community culture
- Clean, walkable downtown
Best for:
✔️ Families
✔️ Longer stays
✔️ Quiet travel
Sandy Springs – Safe Suburban Comfort
Sandy Springs consistently ranks among the safest places near Atlanta.
Why Sandy Springs is safe:
- Independent police force
- Low violent crime
- Modern hotels & offices
Best for:
✔️ Business travelers
✔️ Families
✔️ Driving visitors
Areas Visitors Should Be More Cautious In
While Atlanta has many great neighborhoods, travelers should be cautious in parts of:
- South Atlanta (outside main attractions)
- Certain areas west of Downtown late at night
- Poorly lit zones far from transit
This doesn’t mean these areas are unsafe at all times — but they’re not ideal for first-time visitors.
Best Areas to Stay by Travel Type
| Travel Type | Safest Area |
|---|---|
| First-time visitors | Buckhead |
| Tourists & sightseeing | Midtown |
| Families | Decatur |
| Couples | Virginia-Highland |
| Business travel | Buckhead / Sandy Springs |
Safety Tips for Staying in Atlanta
- Choose hotels near major roads & attractions
- Use rideshare at night instead of walking
- Avoid isolated areas after dark
- Stick to well-reviewed neighborhoods
Final Verdict: Where Should You Stay?
If safety is your top priority, you can’t go wrong with Buckhead or Midtown. For quieter stays, Decatur and Virginia-Highland are excellent choices. Travelers looking for suburban peace and security should consider Sandy Springs.