Safety in Savannah

Question

Hi,

I know there had been many posts about this and I did read through them but am hoping for more insight. Is the areas around MLK and Borough safe to stay?

Also, everyone was posting that East of Forsyth is not safe which is why we were not looking at staying there but the crime map indicates its the west side? Anyone live there that can speak to where I should/should not be looking.

Answer

Safety in Savannah is an important consideration for visitors, as with any city. It’s good that you’re looking into the areas around MLK and Borough Street, as well as the East and West sides of Forsyth. I can provide some general insights to help guide your decision based on the current safety and neighborhood trends. Here’s a breakdown:

Areas Around MLK and Borough Street:

MLK and Borough Street are located in an area that is part of the historically significant and diverse part of Savannah. While these areas are generally safe, there are pockets where you may want to exercise a bit more caution, especially at night. Some parts of the neighborhood, particularly closer to more industrial areas, may not have as much pedestrian traffic after dark, which could make the area feel less safe.

MLK Boulevard: This street runs through the heart of the city and connects several important neighborhoods. However, parts of it near the industrial zones or further west of the Historic District are less traveled, and while it’s a main road, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings in quieter areas.
Borough Street: This area is often considered more residential, and like many older parts of Savannah, can be a little quieter and less trafficked in the evenings. It’s fine during the day, but walking at night in this area, especially if you’re unfamiliar, might feel more isolated.

East vs. West of Forsyth Park:

There’s a bit of confusion about safety between the areas east and west of Forsyth Park, as crime can vary by block and can change over time. Historically, people have been wary of areas east of Forsyth Park, particularly in the more residential zones closer to the 1-16 exit, but the crime map you referenced may show areas of concern more heavily west of the park. Here’s a breakdown:

East of Forsyth Park: This area, including neighborhoods like the Historic District and Victorian District, is generally considered safe for visitors. It has a lot of tourist traffic and is well-lit at night with plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants. However, as with any city, it’s wise to be cautious about walking in poorly lit or more isolated spots after dark.
West of Forsyth Park: Historically, the western side of Forsyth Park and neighborhoods to the west can be less affluent and have experienced higher crime rates in the past. The further west you go from Forsyth, the more you’ll encounter areas that are mixed-use and more residential with fewer tourists. However, the west side also has some hidden gems, like the popular Starland District, which is an artsy, trendy area with great shops and restaurants.

Crime Map Considerations:

It’s good that you’re looking at crime maps to assess safety, but keep in mind that crime is often clustered in certain spots and can be situational. Areas with higher tourist traffic, like around River Street and the Historic District, tend to be well-policed and safer. However, the further you go from the touristy spots, the more likely you’ll encounter varying levels of safety, particularly at night. The key here is knowing where you’ll be staying and being mindful of the neighborhood’s vibe—whether it’s well-lit, active, or quieter after dark.

General Advice:

Stay aware: Savannah’s Historic District is very safe for tourists, especially during the day. At night, exercise typical city precautions by avoiding less-populated streets.
Transportation: If you're staying in areas that feel quieter or more isolated, consider using ride-sharing services at night instead of walking, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Stay in well-lit, active areas: Stick to well-trafficked areas with plenty of people around, especially when traveling at night. The streets around River Street, Broughton Street, and along the Historic District are generally safe, but like any city, some areas become quiet after dark.

Conclusion:

Both the areas around MLK and Borough Street are relatively safe, but like any city, it’s always best to be cautious. If you’re planning to stay near Forsyth Park, you’re generally in a great area with easy access to the Historic District. The crime map can be helpful, but it’s important to consider how the neighborhood feels in person, especially when it comes to foot traffic and nighttime visibility. As long as you stay alert and aware of your surroundings, you’ll likely have a safe and enjoyable visit to Savannah!