Pensacola, the county seat of Escambia County, is an enchanting city that beckons with a population of 52,342.
Home to breathtaking beaches, lively festivals, and a tantalizing mix of culinary pleasures, Pensacola has it all.
However, when it comes to finding the perfect place to settle down, safety is paramount. Regrettably, Pensacola’s crime rate exceeds the national average.
With a violent crime rate of 35.7 and a property crime rate of 61.4, finding safe Pensacola areas is important if you want to feel at ease.
Belmont-DeVilliers
Belmont-DeVilliers is one of Pensacola’s most historic neighborhoods. Established in the late 1800s, this community was once the center of African American life in the city during segregation.
Today, Belmont-DeVilliers embraces its rich cultural heritage while evolving into a diverse, vibrant place to call home.
Within the Belmont-DeVilliers borders, you’ll find architectural styles ranging from Creole cottages to Queen Anne Victorians.
Community pillars like the Belmont-DeVilliers Neighborhood Center and Blue Jay Recreation Center have been neighborhood staples for generations. Events like the annual Belmont-DeVilliers Heritage Festival celebrate the community’s deep-rooted history.
Belmont-DeVilliers’ location is another major draw. It sits just west of downtown Pensacola, within walking or biking distance of dining, shopping, arts, and entertainment. Meanwhile, neighborhood streets like DeVilliers, Intendencia, and Spring are leafy, family-friendly corridors perfect for an evening stroll.
East Pensacola Heights
Looking for safety and southern charm? East Pensacola Heights should be at the top of your list. This historic neighborhood between Pensacola Bay and Bayou Texar has been around since the 1500s, so you know it has serious staying power.
There are tons of reasons East Pensacola Heights is one of the most coveted – and safest – areas of Pensacola:
- Low crime. East Pensacola Heights has one of the lowest crime rates in the city. You’ll feel comfortable walking around day or night.
- Tight-knit community. Neighbors know each other here. Everyone looks out for one another, and there are events like the casual weekend “peloton” group bike ride that stops at local eateries.
- Beautiful homes. From Craftsman bungalows to Italianate villas, the architecture is stunning. And with homes dating back over a century, no two houses are alike.
- Outdoor access. You get the best of both worlds: a quiet neighborhood vibe but still close to the water. Go boating on Bayou Texar or swim at Bayview Park Beach – all just minutes away.
East Hill
The East Hill neighborhood is one of Pensacola’s safest and most desirable areas.
- This neighborhood is rated by NeighborhoodScout as among the top 9.9% of retiree-friendly neighborhoods in Florida, combining peace and quiet and safety from crime.
- The East Hill District is a historic preservation district, which means it has dozens of old Victorian homes. Many homes have been completely renovated, so they are structurally sound and safe.
- Median Listing Home Price. $298k
East Hill has a charming, small-town vibe with friendly neighbors and an active neighborhood association that organizes community events. You’ll see people walking dogs, jogging, and enjoying the historic homes.
East Hill remains one of the safest neighborhoods in Pensacola. Violent crime rates here are 65% lower than the national average. Property crime like theft or vandalism is also rare.
The safety, security, and 24/7 neighborhood watch provided by an active homeowners association and local authorities make East Hill ideal for families, retirees, and anyone desiring a serene place to call home.
Some of Pensacola’s finest examples of Victorian-era architecture are in East Hill, with ornate details like turrets, wraparound porches, and stained glass windows.
Even if you don’t live in one of the official historic homes, the neighborhood’s charming historic character still shines through. The aesthetic appeal and pride of the place in East Hill contribute to residents’ quality of life and home values.
East Hill offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, community, and comfort, making a place feel like home.
Riverview
Riverview is one of the most family-friendly neighborhoods in Pensacola. With an average rental price of around $2,500 per month, the residences here are affordable yet modern, built primarily in the last few decades.
The community has many amenities for people of all ages. Several playgrounds, sports fields, and parks are scattered throughout Riverview, providing plenty of opportunities for recreation and outdoor activities. The neighborhood also has its own community center, library, and places of worship for different faiths.
For education, Riverview families have access to some of the highest-rated schools in Pensacola, both public and private. Several daycares and preschools in the area help make the neighborhood convenient for young children and working parents.
The location of Riverview provides easy access to downtown Pensacola, the beach, and nearby cities without excessive traffic.
Major roadways like Creighton Road and Langley Avenue run directly through the neighborhood, connecting residents to the rest of the city. Several bus routes also service the area for those without a vehicle.
Gulf Beach Heights
Gulf Beach Heights is a peaceful suburban neighborhood in Pensacola with scenic beaches and natural surroundings. Homes here range from $225K to $1.4M, appealing to a mix of homebuyers, especially retirees and families seeking an escape from city life.
According to NeighborhoodScout, Gulf Beach Heights ranks in Florida’s top 10% of retirement-friendly neighborhoods. The natural setting, safety, and quiet appeal to those looking to settle in for their golden years.
Given its proximity to beaches, parks, and outdoor recreation, Gulf Beach Heights attracts younger families seeking an active lifestyle in a safe environment.
Homes in Gulf Beach Heights vary from modest cottages to sprawling beach houses with ocean views. Most were built between 1970 to 2000 in a mix of architectural styles like Craftsman, ranch, and beach bungalows. Lots are typically 1/4 to 1 acre, allowing for privacy and space.
The main draw of Gulf Beach Heights is its natural surroundings. Residents enjoy swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and beachcombing along the Gulf of Mexico.
Check out the Gulf Islands National Seashore or Big Lagoon State Park for outdoor recreation, both within a 10-minute drive. Closer to home, stroll through Live Oak Landing Park or let kids roam free at Wilder Park playground.
Downtown
Centered around Palafox Place, Downtown offers shopping, dining, entertainment, and culture in a charming setting.
During the day, downtown Pensacola is generally very safe to explore. The area has lower crime rates than other parts of the city, and violent or property crimes are uncommon, especially against visitors and tourists.
You’ll feel comfortable walking around, popping into stores, and enjoying a meal al fresco at one of the many restaurants. Some recommendations for a safe and enjoyable visit include:
- Strolling along Palafox Place and side streets to browse boutiques, gift shops, and art galleries.
- Catching a show at the Saenger Theater, a historic 1920s venue that hosts Broadway musicals, comedians, and other live events.
- Learning about local history at the Pensacola Museum of Art or T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum.
- Dining at one of the casual bistros, upscale eateries, or food trucks along Palafox Place and surrounding blocks. Outdoor patios are popular, especially for weekend brunch.
Use caution in unlit or isolated areas at night, as some petty crimes may occur after dark. But downtown remains a popular nightlife destination, with many restaurants, music venues, and bars staying open late—so there are usually plenty of people around.
Treasure Hill Park
Treasure Hill Park is a quiet residential community located just 10 minutes from downtown and offers homes for under $200,000.
As a coastal neighborhood, Treasure Hill Park gives you easy access to the beach and all the recreational activities that come with it.
Pack up the family for a day of swimming, sunbathing, or boating at nearby Bayview Park or Shoreline Park. The kids will love building sandcastles and searching for seashells along the shore.
Safety is a top priority in Treasure Hill Park. A neighborhood watch program and the Pensacola Police Department work together to prevent crime.
Well-lit streets, low traffic, and a strong sense of community contribute to the safe vibe. You’ll feel comfortable letting your kids play outside and won’t have to worry constantly about home security.
Mallory Heights
Mallory Heights is an affluent neighborhood in Pensacola with a median household income of $101,250. Home values in Mallory Heights are well above the national average, with a median real estate price of $426,982.
Despite the higher cost of living, Mallory Heights remains one of Pensacola’s safest and most family-friendly neighborhoods.
The low crime rate and limited reports of dangerous activity make it an appealing place for homeowners and renters with children. Apartments for rent in Mallory Heights require intensive background checks and security deposits to ensure only responsible tenants.
Outdoor recreation opportunities also abound in Mallory Heights. City parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and the Escambia River are nearby. The natural scenery and amenities attract those seeking an active lifestyle.
For commuters, Mallory Heights has quick access to Interstate 10 and is only a 15-minute drive from downtown Pensacola.
Final Thoughts
Pensacola is a patchwork of unique neighborhoods, each shining in its own way. It’s a place where the sun meets the sea, history meets modernity, and flavors meet your tastebuds.
But like any city, safety varies from one corner to the next. It’s all about finding the right fit for you. Whether you’re just passing through or considering a permanent move, Pensacola has a safe space that’ll feel just like home.
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