Safest Areas in Manchester to Live in 2025: Top 10 Low-Crime Neighbourhoods
- joedonnelly3
- Apr 19
- 6 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
If you’re looking for the safest areas in Manchester, you’re not alone. Whether you’re relocating for work, moving your family, or just want peace of mind in your next neighbourhood, safety is a major factor when choosing where to live.
Manchester offers several safe and community-focused neighborhoods that cater to families, professionals, and students, emphasising the balance between safety and quality of life. From its thriving job market to its iconic music and food scenes, there’s so much to love. But like any big city, safety varies from area to area.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 10 safest places to live in Manchester in 2025, based on crime statistics, local reputation, and overall quality of life.
Introduction to Manchester
Manchester is a vibrant and diverse city located in the North of England, known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and thriving community. With a population of over 2.8 million people, Greater Manchester is a significant urban area that offers a unique blend of city living and suburban charm. However, like many major cities, Manchester faces challenges related to crime and safety. According to recent figures, there were over 5 million non-fraud crimes recorded in England and Wales, with Greater Manchester Police (GMP) recording 329,257 crimes in the same period. Despite these numbers, Manchester remains a dynamic and appealing place to live, with ongoing efforts to improve safety and reduce crime rates.
What Makes a Neighbourhood Safe?
A safe neighbourhood is characterised by low crime rates, good lighting, and a strong sense of community. In Manchester, areas like Didsbury and Chorlton are prime examples of safe neighbourhoods, boasting low crime rates and excellent schools. These suburbs are popular with families and professionals who value a secure and welcoming environment. On the other hand, areas with higher crime rates, such as Cheetham Hill, may be considered less safe due to the presence of organised crime groups operating in the area. According to the crime map, Manchester has the fifth highest crime rate in England and Wales, with 158 offences per 1,000 people, which is equivalent to one crime report for every six people. Understanding these dynamics can help you make an informed decision about where to live.
1. Didsbury (East & West)
Didsbury consistently ranks as one of the safest neighbourhoods in Manchester, known for its vibrant community and low crime rates. With a village-like charm, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular with families and professionals alike.
Why it’s safe: Strong community feel, well-lit streets, and active neighbourhood watch schemes.
Local highlights: Fletcher Moss Park, boutique coffee shops, and some of Manchester’s best schools.
Property vibe: Victorian terraces, modern apartments, and spacious family homes.
9. Chorlton-cum-Hardy
Chorlton is creative, green, and most importantly—safe. It’s become a hotspot for those seeking a balance between inner-city access and a peaceful, welcoming environment.
Why it’s safe: Low crime levels and a tightly-knit community.
Perfect for: Families, creatives, and eco-conscious residents.
Extras: Chorlton Water Park, organic markets, independent shops, and bike-friendly roads.
8. Sale (Trafford)
Located in the Trafford borough, Sale is known for its excellent schools, family amenities, and lower-than-average crime rates—making it one of the best places to live in Greater Manchester.
Why it’s safe: Trafford is consistently ranked as one of the safest boroughs in the police force area.
Commuting: Quick tram and road links to the city centre.
Who lives here: Families, first-time buyers, and working professionals.
7. Altrincham
This award-winning market town is one of Greater Manchester’s safest and most desirable areas. It’s posh but not pretentious, with a strong community spirit and very low crime rates.
Why it’s safe: Excellent policing, well-maintained streets, and low anti-social behaviour reports.
Top perks: Altrincham Market, high-end shops, vibrant culture, and great schools.
Property prices: On the higher side, but you get what you pay for.
6. Heaton Moor (Stockport Borough)
Technically just outside central Manchester, Heaton Moor is part of Stockport—but it’s a major contender if you’re looking for a safe place to live near Manchester.
Why it’s safe: Quiet residential streets, friendly locals, and good lighting, as reported by local authority areas.
Atmosphere: Relaxed, suburban, and family-focused.
Local spots: Independent bars, delis, and leafy parks.
5. Monton (Eccles)
A lesser-known gem, Monton is on the rise. This area is attracting attention for its growing café culture, low crime, and warm community atmosphere.
Why it’s safe: Quiet streets, neighbourly feel, and relatively low reported incidents, thanks to ongoing efforts in fighting crime.
Who lives here: Young couples, remote workers, and creatives.
Nearby gems: Worsley Woods, scenic canal paths, and artisan coffee shops.
4. Worsley
This affluent suburb has an almost countryside vibe while being just a short drive from the city. It’s historically known for its canals and greenery—but it’s also one of the safest places to live in Manchester.
Why it’s safe: Low crime rates, well-kept properties, and gated communities, which is impressive for a major city.
Vibe: Quiet, classy, and community-oriented.
Good for: Families, retirees, and professionals.
3. Whitefield
Located just north of the city, Whitefield is gaining a reputation as a safe and up-and-coming spot. It’s a smart choice if you want affordability without compromising on safety.
Why it’s safe: Low crime compared to nearby districts, as shown in the new crime map.
Transport: Direct tram into the city centre.
Appeal: Great for young families and first-time buyers.
2. Prestwich
Green, family-friendly, and packed with personality, Prestwich offers both convenience and comfort. The area is booming with new bars and eateries, but crime remains low.
Why it’s safe: Low burglary and anti-social behaviour stats, contributing to Manchester's safety index.
Who loves it: Young professionals, families, and commuters.
Bonus: Huge green spaces like Heaton Park on your doorstep.
1. Urmston
Topping our list of the safest areas is Urmston—located in the Trafford borough, known for its family appeal, excellent schools, and quiet, friendly streets.
Why it’s safe: Consistently low crime rates and strong local policing across the ten districts.
Vibe: Peaceful, neighbourly, and convenient.
Why move here: A perfect blend of urban and suburban living.
Community and Safety
Community plays a vital role in maintaining safety in Manchester. The city has a number of community-led initiatives aimed at reducing crime and improving safety, such as the Greater Manchester Against Crime partnership. This partnership brings together local authorities, police, and community groups to tackle crime and make communities feel safer. Additionally, the city boasts a number of outstanding schools and excellent transport links, making it an attractive place to live and work. However, like many cities, Manchester also experiences anti-social behaviour and violent crimes, which can have a significant impact on the community. In recent years, GMP has successfully dismantled several organised crime groups, resulting in a significant reduction in crime rates. These efforts highlight the ongoing commitment to making Manchester a safer place for residents and visitors alike.
Safety Tips for Families
For families visiting or living in Manchester, there are several safety tips to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like the city centre. Keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night. Additionally, consider using bespoke security solutions, such as CCTV cameras or alarm systems, to protect your home and family. It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the local area, including the location of police stations, hospitals, and other emergency services. By taking these precautions, you can help keep your family safe and enjoy all that Manchester has to offer. According to the Reach Data Unit, Manchester’s safety index has improved in recent years, making it a great place to visit or live.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Based on Crime Rates
When searching for the safest place to live in Manchester, it’s important to look beyond just crime stats and consider how areas rank on the national league table. Consider:
Public transport links
Community engagement
School quality
Green spaces and amenities
Affordability vs. safety trade-offs
Every area listed here offers a unique balance of safety, lifestyle, and liveability—whether you’re starting a family, moving for work, or just looking for peace of mind in your new home.
Looking to move? Be sure to visit areas in person, explore during both day and night, and chat with locals to get a feel for the neighbourhood. Your safest area is one where you feel secure, connected, and at home.
This blog post was provided to you by Absolute Digital Solutions, we help with security solutions for homes and businesses throughout Greater Manchester and the UK. If you are interested in obtaining cctv, alarms and surveillance monitoring for your home or business please visit the following page for more information
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