2025 Guide to the 10 Safest Suburbs in NSW

When choosing a place to live in NSW, safety is more than just a buzzword — it’s a foundational quality that affects daily life, peace of mind, and property value.

In this guide, we highlight 10 of the safest suburbs in NSW in 2025, selected for low crime, strong community infrastructure, and family‑friendly amenities. Whether you are a homeowner, renter, or raising a family, these suburbs stand out for combining security with liveability.

Below each suburb you’ll find estimated statistics: crime index, safety index, infrastructure scores, public transport access, and median house prices. Use this as a starting point—and always crosscheck with BOCSAR and local council crime dashboards for the latest figures.

NSW Safest Suburbs 

(Updated as of October 2025)

1. Wahroonga (Upper North Shore, Ku‑ring‑gai LGA)

Wahroonga is often synonymous with leafy, quiet streets and premium family living. The suburb offers a strong mix of private and public schools, parks, walking trails, and local shops, all wrapped in a calm, low‑traffic environment. Many residents value it for the sense of community, where neighbourhood watch and local safety initiatives are active. 

Because Wahroonga lies within the Ku‑ring‑gai LGA, one of the lowest violent crime LGAs in NSW, it benefits from favourable crime rates and safety perception. It also maintains good bus connections and relatively easy access to Hornsby station for rail commuters.

• Crime Index (Est): ~ 140 (annual)
  
  
• Safety Index (Est): ~ 85 (annual)
  
  
• Family‑Friendly Infrastructure / Amenities: 9/10
  
  
• Public Transport Accessibility: 7/10
  
  
• Median House Price (2025 est): ~$2,800,000
  
  

2. St Ives (Ku‑ring‑gai / Northern Sydney)

St Ives is known for its quiet, winding roads, generous greenery, and strong community feel. Large family homes, peaceful cul‑de‑sacs, and excellent schooling options make it a magnet for families seeking both safety and comfort. 

The local council invests in street lighting upgrades, footpath visibility, and crime prevention programs. While not directly on a train line, St Ives is serviced by frequent buses to major nodes. Many residents point to the low turnover and stable demographics as signs of trust in local safety.

• Crime Index (Est): ~ 155 (annual)
  
  
• Safety Index (Est): ~ 82 (annual)
  
  
• Family‑Friendly Infrastructure / Amenities: 9/10
  
  
• Public Transport Accessibility: 6/10
  
  
• Median House Price (2025 est): ~$2,900,000
  
  

3. Lane Cove (Lower North Shore / Sydney)

Lane Cove strikes a rare balance: proximity to the CBD, high walkability, and comparatively low crime levels. Residents enjoy riverside paths, parks, good local shops, and cafés. 

Council initiatives such as community safety audits, upgraded lighting in lanes and precincts, and active community watch groups reinforce local protection. Bus connections link to North Shore train lines, making it convenient for commuters who want safety without sacrificing access.

• Crime Index (Est): ~ 180 (annual)
  
  
• Safety Index (Est): ~ 75 (annual)
  
  
• Family‑Friendly Infrastructure / Amenities: 8/10
  
  
• Public Transport Accessibility: 7/10
  
  
• Median House Price (2025 est): ~$2,400,000
  
  

4. Hunters Hill

With its riverside character and heritage homes, Hunters Hill exudes prestige and serenity. Narrow roads, low traffic flow, and strong community identity help discourage casual crime. Council and police often collaborate on local lighting, safety signage, and public space surveillance. 

However, not major transport hubs, ferry and bus options are available for those commuting. For families, the area offers quiet precincts and green spaces where children can play relatively safely.

• Crime Index (Est): ~ 190 (annual)
  
  
• Safety Index (Est): ~ 73 (annual)
  
  
• Family‑Friendly Infrastructure / Amenities: 7/10
  
  
• Public Transport Accessibility: 6/10
  
  
• Median House Price: ~$2,800,000
  
  

5. Mosman

Mosman’s reputation for safety is backed by its demography, high socio‑economic stability, and well-patrolled precincts. With beautiful harborside views, boutique shopping, Balmoral Beach, and cultural landmarks, it remains a prestigious address that attracts people who expect both lifestyle and security. 

Council and police presence in the town centre and high streets tends to be higher than in many suburbs, offering strong deterrence. The suburb is well-served by numerous bus routes and ferry access.

• Crime Index (Est): ~ 200 (annual)
  
  
• Safety Index (Est): ~ 72 (annual)
  
  
• Family‑Friendly Infrastructure / Amenities: 7/10
  
  
• Public Transport Accessibility: 8/10
  
  
• Median House Price (2025 est): ~$3,500,000
  
  

6. Killara

Killara offers serenity with its tree-lined residential streets, strong owner-occupier base, and schools that draw committed families. Its location adjacent to Ku‑ring‑gai’s low-crime LGA lifts its credibility as a safe suburb. 

Many streets feel like internal enclaves, protecting residents from through traffic and exposure. Buses connect to Lindfield or Chatswood train stations, providing commuters with access to the North Shore line.

• Crime Index (Est): ~ 185 (annual)
  
  
• Safety Index (Est): ~ 74 (annual)
  
  
• Family‑Friendly Infrastructure / Amenities: 8/10
  
  
• Public Transport Accessibility: 7/10
  
  
• Median House Price (2025 est): ~$3,100,000
  
  

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7. Baulkham Hills (Hills Shire)

Though part of Sydney’s bustling north‑west, Baulkham Hills includes quiet pockets that are notably safer than much of the region. With shopping hubs, gardens, good schools, and sports ovals, the suburb serves families well. 

The Hills Shire Council invests in crime prevention in parks and open spaces, and neighbourhood watch is active in many streets. Bus networks are strong, and there are plans for further metro/rail extensions to improve connectivity.

• Crime Index (Est): ~ 220 (annual)
  
  
• Safety Index (Est): ~ 68 (annual)
  
  
• Family‑Friendly Infrastructure / Amenities: 9/10
  
  
• Public Transport Accessibility: 7/10
  
  
• Median House Price (2025 est): ~$1,700,000
  
  

8. Gosford (select precincts)

Gosford, on the Central Coast, is often overlooked in “safest suburbs” lists—but parts of it show favourable safety metrics for regional NSW. Suburbs like Narara, Point Clare, and East Gosford feature mature residential streets, community engagement, and fewer crime attractors. 

As a regional hub, it offers a hospital, schools, a coastal lifestyle, and a train station connecting to both Sydney and Newcastle. For families wanting more space and lower density, these precincts of Gosford are compelling options.

• Crime Index (Est): ~ 240 (annual)
  
  
• Safety Index (Est): ~ 65 (annual)
  
  
• Family‑Friendly Infrastructure / Amenities: 8/10
  
  
• Public Transport Accessibility: 6/10
  
  
• Median House Price (2025 est): ~$1,000,000
  
  

9. Woy Woy

Woy Woy, also in the Central Coast region, benefits from coastal access, local shopping strips, and a sense of community ownership over safety. Its lower density and less complex urban environment make local surveillance (by neighbours, Council, and patrols) more effective. 

The train station on the Central Coast line gives commuting options, and local council efforts in lighting and CCTV focus help mitigate night‑time risks. For regional renters or families, it’s a solid pick.

• Crime Index (Est): ~ 260 (annual)
  
  
• Safety Index (Est): ~ 63 (annual)
  
  
• Family‑Friendly Infrastructure / Amenities: 7/10
  
  
• Public Transport Accessibility: 6/10
  
  
• Median House Price (2025 est): ~$900,000
  
  

10. Charlestown (Newcastle region)

To increase local resonance, Charlestown enters our list. As part of the Newcastle / Lake Macquarie region, it boasts major retail (Charlestown Square), established school zones, and good road networks. Among Newcastle suburbs, it consistently reports lower crime than inner industrial or high‑density areas. 

Residents cite the convenience of amenities, relative calm, and good infrastructure as reasons they feel safe. For local buyers or renters, this gives you a credible “safe suburb in your region” option.

• Crime Index (Est): ~ 270 (annual)
  
  
• Safety Index (Est): ~ 60 (annual)
  
  
• Family‑Friendly Infrastructure / Amenities: 8/10
  
  
• Public Transport Accessibility: 6/10
  
  
• Median House Price (2025 est): ~$850,000
  
  

Sources: BOSCAR, NSW Government

Disclaimer: The crime statistics and suburb safety data provided in this article are based on publicly available sources, estimates, and averages as of 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, actual crime rates may vary over time and by specific location. Always refer to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics or local authorities for the most current and official data.

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FAQs

Where is the highest crime rate in NSW?

According to crime statistics from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics, the Sydney CBD consistently records some of the highest concentrations of serious offences, including property crimes, car thefts, and domestic violence assaults. This is largely due to high foot traffic, nightlife, and major transport hubs, which require frequent police patrols and advanced CCTV systems to maintain public safety system.

What suburb has the lowest crime rate in Australia?

While specific rankings can shift yearly, areas like the Northern Beaches and North Sydney often rank among the safest in the country, supported by strong urban planning and active Neighbourhood Watch programs. These suburbs typically show lower rates of home break and enters and benefit from robust public safety programs and well-lit public spaces.

What is the best suburb to live in NSW?

The “best” suburb depends on your priorities, but suburbs with a high Safe Cities Index, excellent local infrastructure, and low unemployment rate—such as those on the Northern Beaches or Lower North Shore—often top the list. These areas combine lifestyle benefits with safety features like CCTV-supported town centres and a reliable police force presence.

What suburbs will boom in 2025 in NSW?

Real estate experts predict suburbs in the north-west corridor of Sydney and parts of the Central Coast to experience strong growth in 2025, thanks to new urban planning projects and improved local infrastructure. These areas are seeing rising demand, improving rental yields, and expanding community safety workshops to support sustainable development.

What is the safest suburb in NSW?

Many suburbs in Ku-ring-gai LGA, such as Wahroonga and St Ives, regularly appear at the top of the Safe Cities Index for NSW. Their low levels of serious offences and property crimes, combined with strong community insights and Neighbourhood Watch programs, make them standout locations for families.

How to know if a suburb is safe?

Check crime statistics published by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics, which detail trends in home break and enters, car thefts, and other offences. You can also look at visible safety features like security systems, CCTV systems, public safety programs, and the presence of community safety workshops and police patrols.

What are the available home loans for first-time buyers in NSW?

First-time buyers in NSW can access a range of loan options, from variable to fixed-rate, and government-backed schemes that support entry into the real estate market.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, choosing one of the safest suburbs in NSW is a smart move—but having the right financial solution is just as important. Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, or investing, a well-structured home loan can help you take full advantage of what these low crime suburbs in NSW have to offer. 

Our expert New South Wales mortgage brokers based in Newcastle are here to guide you with honest advice, lender comparisons, and tailored loan strategies. Book your free consultation today at Mortgage Brokers Newcastle or call 02 4920 6468 to get started.