Best and Worst Neighborhoods in Saint Paul, MN

Saint Paul has more than 100 distinct neighborhoods, and the quality of life can change fast from one zip code to the next. You’ve got quiet, tree-lined streets with historic homes, top-rated schools, and neighbors who actually talk to each other. Then you’ve got areas where property crime is common, police activity is frequent, and safety becomes a daily concern.

If you’re thinking about moving to Saint Paul — or investing here — you need to know what locals consider the best and worst places to live. This guide breaks down Saint Paul neighborhoods using local reputation, crime trends, school performance, housing costs, and overall lifestyle.

Let’s get into it.

Crime Rates Across Saint Paul Neighborhoods

Crime in Saint Paul varies dramatically by neighborhood. While the city overall sits slightly above the national average for violent crime, certain areas run well below that line — and others far exceed it.

Neighborhoods like Highland Park, Macalester-Groveland, and Summit Hill consistently report low violent crime. These are places where people walk dogs at night, kids bike to school, and break-ins are relatively rare.

On the other end, areas like Frogtown, Dayton’s Bluff, Payne–Phalen, and parts of North End struggle with higher rates of assaults, robberies, and gun-related incidents. In some pockets, violent crime can reach two to three times the national average.

Where you live in Saint Paul has a major impact on your daily sense of safety, and it’s one of the top factors residents use to evaluate neighborhoods—especially if you’re considering whether it’s time to sell your house fast in St. Paul.

Property Crime Trends in Saint Paul

Saint Paul is generally a good place to live, with strong neighborhoods, access to parks, and a vibrant community feel. While property crime is far more common than violent crime in the city, it is typically non-violent in nature. Car break-ins, garage thefts, package stealing, and vandalism occur in certain areas — especially near major corridors and dense rental zones — but many neighborhoods remain quiet and stable, particularly where residents are actively engaged and preventive measures are in place.

Highland Park, Summit Hill, and Como Park see property crime well below the city average. People still lock their cars, but stolen packages and smashed windows are far less common.

Neighborhoods like Frogtown, North End, Payne–Phalen, and Downtown Saint Paul experience significantly higher rates of burglary and vehicle theft. In these areas, off-street parking, garages, and security systems are more of a necessity than a luxury.

Top-Rated Neighborhoods in Saint Paul

If you’re looking for the best quality of life, safety, schools, and long-term value, these neighborhoods consistently rank at the top.

1. Highland Park

Highland Park is one of Saint Paul’s most desirable neighborhoods — and for good reason. Crime rates are well below city averages, schools are strong, and the community feel is hard to beat.

Median home prices hover around $450,000–$550,000, with rents averaging $1,500–$1,800 for a one-bedroom. Highland Park Elementary and Highland Park Senior High both rate well, and the area is close to the Mississippi River trails, Highland Village shopping, and MSP Airport.

It’s walkable, family-friendly, and stable — exactly what many buyers want.

2. Macalester–Groveland

Mac-Groveland blends historic charm with college-town energy. Tree-lined streets, classic homes, and access to Macalester College give it a polished but relaxed vibe.

Crime stays relatively low here, especially compared to neighborhoods east of Lexington Parkway. Home values average $500,000+, and rentals are in high demand due to students and professionals.

Schools perform well, and Grand Avenue’s restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques are a major lifestyle perk.

3. Summit Hill

Summit Hill is Saint Paul elegance at its finest. Historic mansions, brick sidewalks, and proximity to Summit Avenue make this one of the city’s most prestigious areas.

Crime is low, property values are high (often $600,000 to $1M+), and the neighborhood has a quiet, established feel. Walkability is excellent, and residents enjoy easy access to downtown, Cathedral Hill, and Grand Avenue.

4. Cathedral Hill

Cathedral Hill offers a slightly more urban feel than Summit Hill but maintains similar charm. Historic apartments, condos, and townhomes dominate the area.

Median prices range from $350,000–$500,000, making it slightly more accessible. Crime remains moderate to low, especially compared to downtown proper. The neighborhood attracts professionals, empty nesters, and people who value walkability.

5. Como Park

Como Park is anchored by the zoo, conservatory, and massive green space. It’s one of Saint Paul’s most family-friendly neighborhoods.

Crime is lower than city averages, schools perform solidly, and home prices typically range from $375,000–$475,000. Residents love the quiet streets, proximity to nature, and strong community identity.

6. St. Anthony Park

Located between Saint Paul and Minneapolis, St. Anthony Park is small but mighty. It’s academic, peaceful, and very community-oriented.

Crime rates are low, and home prices average $450,000–$600,000. It’s ideal for families, professors, and professionals who want a slower pace without being far from the city.

7. West Seventh (Selective Areas)

West Seventh is a mixed bag, but its stronger pockets near the river and residential zones offer good value. Crime varies block by block, but many areas remain stable and community-driven.

Median home prices range from $325,000–$425,000, and access to downtown, the airport, and river trails is excellent.

Worst Neighborhoods in Saint Paul

These neighborhoods struggle with higher crime rates, weaker school performance, and slower appreciation.

1. Frogtown

Frogtown consistently ranks among the highest-crime neighborhoods in Saint Paul. Violent and property crime rates are significantly above city and national averages.

Home prices are lower ($220,000–$300,000), which attracts investors, but residents deal with frequent police activity, theft, and safety concerns.

2. North End

North End struggles with persistent crime issues, especially gun violence and car theft. Some blocks are improving, but overall risk remains high.

Homes are affordable ($230,000–$320,000), but insurance costs and security concerns are common complaints among residents.

3. Payne–Phalen

Payne–Phalen offers cultural diversity and access to Lake Phalen, but crime remains a major drawback. Certain streets are improving, while others continue to struggle.

Violent crime rates remain elevated, and property crime is common. Prices stay lower ($250,000–$350,000) for a reason.

4. Dayton’s Bluff

Dayton’s Bluff has beautiful views of downtown Saint Paul, but crime undermines its potential. Assaults, theft, and vandalism occur at higher-than-average rates.

Home values remain suppressed, and buyer interest fluctuates depending on specific blocks.

5. Downtown Saint Paul

Downtown living appeals to some, but crime, limited grocery access, and post-pandemic vacancies hurt livability. Property crime and late-night incidents are common.

Condos are often affordable, but lifestyle quality isn’t always consistent—a common reality we notice as we buy houses in Minnesota.

The Middle Ground: Saint Paul Neighborhoods with Trade-Offs

1. West Side

Strong cultural identity and improving amenities, but crime varies widely by block.

2. East Side (Selective Areas)

Affordable housing and parks, but safety concerns persist.

3. Merriam Park

Great location and schools, but rising prices and limited inventory.

Cost Comparison: Best vs. Worst Neighborhoods

Saint Paul’s price gap isn’t as extreme as some metros, but it’s still substantial. Summit Hill and Highland Park average $500,000–$800,000, while Frogtown and North End remain under $300,000.

Lower prices usually mean higher crime, weaker schools, and fewer amenities.

Schools and Neighborhood Quality

Top neighborhoods feed into stronger public schools and private options. Highland Park, Mac-Groveland, and Summit Hill consistently outperform areas in the North End and Frogtown, where school resources are more limited.

Transportation & Walkability

Saint Paul excels at walkability in areas like Summit Hill, Cathedral Hill, and Mac-Groveland. Suburban-style neighborhoods require cars, while high-crime areas may be walkable but less comfortable on foot.

Key Takeaways: Best and Worst Neighborhoods in Saint Paul, MN

Saint Paul is a city of striking contrasts. Established neighborhoods like Highland Park, Summit Hill, Macalester-Groveland, and Como Park are known for safety, strong schools, and long-term stability — and their home prices reflect it. In contrast, areas such as Frogtown, North End, Payne–Phalen, and Dayton’s Bluff face higher-than-average crime rates, which keep property values lower but increase investment risk. Henry Home Buyer buys houses cash — contact us today to learn your options.