Is Munich safe to live in? The 4 areas to avoid in Munich

Find out if Munich is safe and what its safest neighborhoods are, and whether there are any areas to avoid in Munich.

Ivandzhelin

3 minute read

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30 Aug 2024

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Living

If you’re considering Munich as your next home, you’re probably asking yourself, “Is Munich safe to live in?”. Well, like all metropolitan cities, the Bavarian capital has some less safe areas than others. So, before you begin to explore homes for rent in Munich, let’s walk you through the areas to avoid in Munich to help you narrow down your choices. To help you even further, we’ve even broken down the safest areas to live in the city. Let’s dive in!

With a 79.03 safety index, Munich stands out as one of the safest cities in Europe. The city’s high safety level is one reason to move to Munich. Munich experiences low crime rates, primarily involving minor offenses like pickpocketing, fake ticket scams, vandalism, and bike theft. You shouldn’t have anything to worry about as long as you keep a closer eye on your belongings in public transport and around popular tourist spots like Marienplatz Square, Siegestor, or Viktualienmarkt.

Safest areas in Munich

1. Glockenbachviertel is a lively neighborhood in the heart of Munich. The area has excellent public connections and proximity to several universities. It’s ideal for students moving to the city for the first time and wanting to meet new people.
2. Berg-Am Laim is one of Munich's outer and safer districts, perfect for families with young children.
3. Neuhausen-Nymphenburg, with its tranquil vibe and upscale apartment buildings and houses, this neighborhood is ideal for families with children.
4. Altstadt-Lehel is Munich’s Old town. This is a safe and central neighborhood with various accommodation options, amenities, and public transport connections.
5. Au-Haidhausen is a suburban and trendy neighborhood ideal for young professionals.

Check out our guide to the best neighborhoods in Munich to learn more about these and other similar areas in the Bavarian capital.

Overall, Munich has no areas you should avoid living in. The residents of 3rd safest city in Germany have a high quality of life and social security, leading to low crime rates. Yet, some areas are less safe than others, where you should be more mindful of your belongings or avoid being alone at night.

1. South of Hauptbahnhof (Central station)

Some locals advise avoiding the areas south of Munich’s central station at night because of the lively crowds enjoying a night out. This side of the Hauptbahnhof is known as the Red Light District, featuring adult entertainment venues and sex workers. While Munich’s Red Light District is pretty safe compared to others around the world, it's wise to avoid walking through it alone at night. It’s also an area to avoid if you’re moving to Munich with your family as it can be quite noisy.

2. Hasenbergl

Found in the north of Munich, Hasenbergl is one of the city's more residential and affordable neighborhoods. Although it had a reputation for vandalism and theft in the past, the Munich government has taken steps in recent years to address these issues, resulting in a significant decrease in crime. If you're considering living here, be aware that Hasenbergl is one of the outer neighborhoods of Munich. This means a longer commute to the city center and fewer easily accessible amenities.

3. Schwabing

If you're seeking a quiet neighborhood, avoid Schwabing. The district is known for its vibrant atmosphere and lively nightlife. Its streets are lined with some of the best cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists. As such, the neighborhood is busy at all times of day and not ideal for light sleepers or those wanting a tranquil environment.

4. Neuperlach

Neuperlach, located in the southern part of Munich, has a reputation for being unsafe due to past incidents of violence and theft. Yet, such occurrences have become rare, thanks to the efficient city police. Similarly to Hasenbergl, Neuperlach is one of the outer neighborhoods in Munich, resulting in longer commuting times but more affordable housing options that may better suit your budget. So, if you’re looking for a bustling neighborhood, Neuperlach isn’t for you.

Yes, Munich is safe at night. As in any city, it's wise to take precautions and avoid walking alone in parks, the Red Light District, or less crowded areas after dark. Munich’s public transport or different ride-sharing services are available during the night for a safe journey home. In general, the likelihood of encountering hate or violent crimes is low, and women can walk at night without worry.

Now that you know which areas to avoid, you’re ready to search for Munich’s houses for rent and find your next home. Good luck!