It is challenging to definitively rank these universities from "safest" to "least safe" as perceptions of safety are subjective and crime statistics can fluctuate. However, a general overview suggests:
- Duke University and UCLA: Benefit from campus environments generally perceived as safer, with UCLA's Westwood neighborhood often cited for its relative safety within Los Angeles. However, both acknowledge and address off-campus concerns and typical property crimes.
- University of Chicago and USC: Are located in more complex urban environments with historically higher crime rates in some surrounding areas. Both institutions have made substantial investments in their own police forces and safety infrastructure to create secure campus environments and extend their safety footprint into nearby neighborhoods. Students are generally advised to be more aware of their surroundings, especially when off-campus.
- Columbia University: While situated in a generally established New York City neighborhood, it shares the general safety concerns of a major metropolis. The recent significant disruptions and safety concerns stemming from large-scale protests and police intervention have added a distinct and acute dimension to its safety profile in the spring of 2025.
