The Safest Suburbs in Brisbane: Northside Edition

Lauren Jones - January 30, 2026  

Brisbane suburb that looks safe

When choosing where to buy property, safety is almost always at the top of the list – especially if you’re raising a family or planning long-term. The good news is, Brisbane is generally considered a safe city overall. But like any growing region, some suburbs offer a stronger sense of security than others.

As North Brisbane specialists and Qualified Property Investment Advisors (QPIA®), our Lauren Jones Buyers Agent (LJBA) team has a deep understanding of the suburbs that consistently deliver low crime rates, family-friendly streets, and that secure “neighbourhood” feel.

Whether you’re a first home buyer, investor, senior, or family looking for your forever home – we are here to offer sound advice.

What Makes a Suburb Feel Safe?

At LJBA, we stay on top of data from Queensland Police Service’s online crime maps so we know which suburbs and property to recommend to our clients.

Being across the most current data is a great starting point, but genuine suburb safety comes down to more than just numbers.

Factors that also contribute include:

  • Good street lighting, particularly around parks, walkways and transport hubs
  • High owner-occupier rates, which often correlate with residents taking pride in their streets
  • Active community programs like Neighbourhood Watch
  • Walkability, maintained public spaces and visible foot traffic
  • Proximity to good schools and amenities, which often encourages stronger community connection

On the flipside, areas with late-night entertainment precincts – such as Fortitude Valley – naturally have higher incident rates, simply because they attract large crowds and nightlife. These suburbs can still be great for a variety of reasons, particularly for investors and young professionals, but they may not always be the first choice for families or retirees looking for peace and quiet.

North Brisbane’s Safest Suburbs

When it comes to buying property in North Brisbane, these are some of the standout safe suburbs our clients consistently love:

  • The Gap – A long-established favourite for families, The Gap blends excellent public and private schooling with large blocks, parks, and a strong community culture. Surrounded by mountains and walking trails, it’s safe, friendly, and perfect for active households.
  • Ferny Grove – Known for its safe streets, abundant parks, reliable transport links and quality schools like Ferny Grove State High, this suburb feels both well-connected and community-oriented. With upcoming development around the transport hub, it’s only becoming more secure and convenient.
  • Wilston – An affluent inner-north suburb with a village atmosphere, Wilston offers high owner-occupier rates, well-kept homes, and a café strip locals love. It’s walkable, well-lit, and feels safe day and night – appealing for professionals and families alike.
  • Alderley – Regularly appearing in “best suburbs to live” lists, Alderley scores well for safety, transport, and lifestyle. Just 7km north of the city, the suburb boasts wide streets, green parks, and strong walkability.
  • Brookfield – For those wanting space and serenity, Brookfield delivers semi-rural living while remaining close to the essentials. With acreage properties, horse paddocks, and a very low crime index, it’s perfect for families seeking tranquillity and community-driven living.
  • Albany Creek – Always popular with young families, Albany Creek offers great schooling options, large family homes, and a safe, community-focussed environment. Its established streets and local sporting clubs make it a suburb where families stay for the long haul.
  • Sandgate – With its coastal boardwalks, village centre, and relaxed feel, Sandgate is both peaceful and safe. Strong community involvement, regular markets, and a love for outdoor living help give it an easy-going, secure atmosphere.
  • North Lakes – As a master-planned community, North Lakes benefits from thoughtful design, strong community engagement, and excellent amenities. With neighbourhood patrols, plenty of parks, and modern infrastructure, it’s a safe, well-connected choice for families and professionals.

How to Choose the Right Suburb to Buy In

Selecting the right suburb to buy in is a very personal choice, driven by a range of different factors. When considering the safety aspect, you should always:

  • Check the QPS Crime Map or RACQ website for current data
  • Ask locals and read community reviews
  • Visit at different times of day (and night) to get a true ‘feel’ for the area
  • Consider local schools, parks, and transport
  • Look for evidence of community involvement and good maintenance

Ready to Find a Home in One of Brisbane’s Safest Suburbs?

At LJBA, we don’t just know which suburbs have lower crime rates, we also understand which areas will align with your lifestyle, budget and long-term goals. With extensive on-the-ground experience across Brisbane and especially north of the river, we’ll help you build long-term wealth through smart property decisions.

Contact our expert team at LJBA today to get the conversation started!