Safest Neighborhoods in Queens: Where to Live in 2026

If you are planning to move to New York City in 2026, Queens should be at the top of your list. Known for its cultural diversity, residential charm, and increasing safety, Queens continues to attract families, professionals, and first-time homebuyers looking for affordable and secure places to live.

While the borough offers a wide variety of neighborhoods, safety remains one of the top priorities for those relocating. In this 2026 guide, we will explore the safest neighborhoods in Queens based on the latest crime data, community feedback, and access to schools, transportation, and housing. Whether you are looking for a peaceful neighborhood to raise your family or a well-connected area to commute to Manhattan, this guide is your starting point.

Why Choose Queens in 2026

Queens offers a unique balance between city living and residential comfort. Compared to Manhattan or Brooklyn, Queens is more spacious, less congested, and often more affordable. In 2026, it is also safer than ever before, thanks to community programs, improved policing, and new infrastructure. For people searching for stability, accessibility, and long-term livability, Queens continues to stand out.

What Makes a Neighborhood Safe

Neighborhood safety is about more than just crime statistics. Safe areas typically have strong local engagement, well-maintained public spaces, good schools, accessible transit, and a healthy mix of homeowners and renters. In the safest neighborhoods in Queens, you will find people walking their dogs at night, kids playing in the parks, and streets that feel welcoming at all hours.

Forest Hills

Forest Hills consistently ranks as one of the safest and most desirable neighborhoods in Queens. Known for its tree-lined streets, Tudor-style homes, and excellent schools, Forest Hills offers a suburban feel while staying connected to the rest of New York City. It is served by multiple subway lines and the Long Island Rail Road, making commuting to Manhattan fast and reliable. Forest Hills is popular with families, professionals, and retirees who want peace of mind along with city convenience. In 2026, it remains a top choice for safety, walkability, and overall quality of life.

Rego Park

Rego Park is a close neighbor of Forest Hills and shares many of its strengths. It offers a slightly more urban feel with access to malls, dining options, and major retail chains. The neighborhood is well served by the subway and has maintained a low crime rate over the years. Rego Park appeals to young couples, professionals, and families who want affordability without compromising on security. It is one of the most well-rounded neighborhoods in central Queens.

Auburndale

Located in northeastern Queens, Auburndale offers a quiet, residential atmosphere with strong community ties. The neighborhood is filled with single-family homes and has a distinctly suburban character. It is especially attractive to first-time homebuyers and families looking for space and calm. The area is served by the Long Island Rail Road and various bus lines, providing easy access to other parts of the city. In 2026, Auburndale is one of the most affordable and safest options in the borough.

Bayside

Bayside remains a favorite for residents who want a more upscale residential environment. The neighborhood features beautiful homes, well-kept streets, and excellent public schools. Bayside also has one of the lowest crime rates in Queens. With access to the Long Island Rail Road and express buses, the area offers a manageable commute to Manhattan. Bayside is ideal for those looking to settle down in a safe, spacious, and family-oriented community.

Fresh Meadows

Fresh Meadows offers a peaceful and green setting with numerous parks, trails, and open spaces. The neighborhood is popular with families and dog owners because of its quiet streets and outdoor access. Schools in the area are well-rated, and housing options include single-family homes and low-rise apartments. Crime in Fresh Meadows is low and stable, making it a consistently safe place to live in Queens.

Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is a small, walkable neighborhood known for its charming streets, community vibe, and historic buildings. The area is connected by subway and Long Island Rail Road, giving residents excellent commuting options. Kew Gardens offers a mix of housing styles, from co-ops to detached homes, and has maintained a reputation for being quiet, artsy, and safe. It attracts professionals, students, and long-time residents who value a low-key environment close to the city.

Laurelton

Laurelton offers a suburban experience within the city limits. With its tree-lined avenues, detached homes, and neighborhood pride, Laurelton has become a haven for families looking for affordability and safety. The area is served by the Long Island Rail Road and bus routes, making it accessible for commuters. Crime rates have dropped significantly in recent years, and residents enjoy a close-knit community feel in a calm and comfortable setting.

Douglaston

Douglaston has some of the lowest crime rates in all of Queens. The neighborhood feels more like a village than a part of New York City. With waterfront views, well-maintained properties, and quiet streets, Douglaston is ideal for families and retirees. It is one of the most peaceful places to live in the borough. The neighborhood is served by the Port Washington branch of the Long Island Rail Road, offering a convenient and scenic route to Manhattan.

Crime Trends in Queens in 2026

According to NYPD data and neighborhood reporting, crime in Queens has continued to decline into 2026. Violent crime is down overall, and property crime has decreased in many areas due to increased awareness and community involvement. The safest neighborhoods in Queens have continued to perform well year over year, with areas like Forest Hills, Douglaston, Bayside, and Auburndale consistently showing the lowest incidents per capita.

Best Neighborhoods for Families in Queens

Families searching for a safe place to live in Queens should consider Forest Hills, Bayside, Fresh Meadows, and Auburndale. These areas offer access to parks, strong public schools, low traffic, and community services designed with families in mind. Housing options range from apartments to detached homes, and the environment is generally calm and welcoming.

Safe Neighborhoods With Great Transit Access

If you want safety and also need to commute to Manhattan or other boroughs, neighborhoods like Forest Hills, Kew Gardens, and Rego Park provide the best of both worlds. They offer access to subway lines, express buses, and the Long Island Rail Road, allowing for short and stress-free commutes. These areas are safe, convenient, and ideal for working professionals who value efficiency and security.

How to Choose the Right Neighborhood in Queens

To decide which Queens neighborhood is right for you, consider your lifestyle, budget, and priorities. If you need proximity to transit, Forest Hills or Rego Park may be ideal. If your goal is space and quiet, look at Bayside, Auburndale, or Douglaston. If you are on a tighter budget but still want safety, Laurelton and Fresh Meadows offer excellent value. Research local schools, visit parks, talk to residents, and take time to walk through each area during the day and evening to get a real sense of the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the safest neighborhood in Queens in 2026? 

Douglaston is currently the safest neighborhood based on the most recent crime data, followed closely by Forest Hills and Bayside.

• Is Queens safe for families? 

Yes. Neighborhoods like Forest Hills, Fresh Meadows, Bayside, and Auburndale are popular among families for their safety, schools, and residential feel.

• Where can I find affordable housing in a safe part of Queens? 

Auburndale, Laurelton, and Kew Gardens offer some of the most affordable options among the safest neighborhoods.

• Are there safe areas in Queens near subway stations? 

Forest Hills, Rego Park, and Kew Gardens are well-connected to public transportation and have low crime rates.

• How do I know which Queens neighborhood is best for me? 

Think about what matters most. Safety, schools, commute time, community vibe, and housing type will help narrow your options. Visit multiple areas if possible before making your decision.

Conclusion

In 2026, Queens remains one of the best boroughs for safe, affordable, and high-quality living in New York City. With crime continuing to decline and community investment on the rise, neighborhoods like Forest Hills, Douglaston, and Rego Park offer excellent environments for individuals and families alike.

Whether you are searching for the perfect starter home or relocating with a growing family, there is a safe neighborhood in Queens that can meet your needs. Make time to explore, ask questions, and see what each area offers. A little research now can lead to years of comfort, safety, and community.

If you need help preparing for your move or finding reliable local resources, stay tuned for our upcoming guides on real estate, school rankings, and moving services across Queens.

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