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Is Apex, NC, a Safe Place to Live? (Crime Statistics)

Ryan Fitzgerald Ryan Fitzgerald
Jun 17, 2025 8 min read
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Is Apex, NC, a Safe Place to Live? (Crime Statistics)
Chapters
01
Apex Crime Statistics
02
Safe Neighborhoods in Apex
03
What Makes Apex So Safe?
04
How to Stay Safe in Apex
05
Essential Home Safety Tips for Apex Residents

Is Apex, NC, a Safe Place to Live? (Crime Statistics)

Is Apex, NC, a safe place to live? Here is what you need to know about the crime rate in Apex, NC. 

Safety is often a top concern for families and individuals alike when considering a move to the Triangle area. Apex, North Carolina, consistently ranks as one of the safest communities in the state, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a secure place to call home.

Located in Wake County, Apex has a population of 75,977 and is considered one of the best places to live in North Carolina. Offering a mixture of historic and southern charm, people love living in Apex for its sought-after real estate, job opportunities, dining scene, and location in the Triangle. 

Best known for its vibrant community and abundant local events and festivals, Apex always offers something new and exciting. With access to world-class healthcare and top-rated educational opportunities, it is no wonder that Apex is one of the most popular Raleigh suburbs.

Let's explore what makes Apex a safe community and the neighborhoods and safety measures that contribute to its stellar reputation.

Let's explore the crime rate in Apex, NC 

1. Apex Crime Statistics 

Living somewhere safe is something that almost everyone looks for when moving somewhere new. Much like Raleigh is a safe place to live, so is Apex. Offering its residents a dense suburban feel and a low crime rate, Apex is family-oriented and a sought-after place for raising children

Apex's overall crime rate is 10 per 1,000 residents, which is near the average of other cities of similar size in America. This statistic becomes more impressive when compared to state and national rates. Apex's total crime rate is 48% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents, which places it well above average regarding safety.

The breakdown of crime in Apex reveals an encouraging picture for potential residents. Your chance of being a victim of violent crime in Apex is one in 1,806, and property crime is one in 107. This means violent crime is infrequent in Apex, while property crime, though more common, still occurs at relatively low rates compared to many other communities.

Considered safer than 45% of other neighborhoods and communities in the United States, Apex ranks first for safety among North Carolina cities. This ranking reflects the town's commitment to public safety and the effectiveness of its law enforcement and community programs.

Here are the annual crimes in Apex, NC: 

Violent Crimes  Property Crimes  Total Crimes 
Number of Crimes  40 677 717
Per 1,000 Residents  0.55 9.37 9.93
Violent Crime Chances in Apex  Violent Crime Chances in North Carolina 
one in 1,806  one in 256
Property Crime Chances in Apex  Property Crime Chances in North Carolina 
one in 107  one in 48

*Data Sourced from NeighborhoodScout

When crime does occur in Apex, the most common type of violent crime is assault, with a rate of 0.33 per 1,000 residents, and the most common type of property crime is theft, with a rate of 7.59 per 1,000 residents. 

Apex distinguishes itself with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the United States, and this achievement firmly establishes Apex among the safest cities in the nation. This is why many people are seeking homes in this area. 

Beautiful white home with black shutters and long driveway built in new development

2. Safe Neighborhoods in Apex

Finding a safe place to live is significant. While the city of Apex has a safety rating similar to Fuquay-Varina's, finding a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and meets safety standards is essential.

Understanding which areas of Apex offer the highest levels of safety can help you make informed decisions about where to live or invest in property. Apex residents generally consider the southwest part of the city the safest. This area offers the lowest violent crime rates in the city.

Beautiful front porch decorated with colorful plants and a dog statue

Check out these best neighborhoods in Apex

New Hill

New Hill is an upcoming picturesque area that offers endless options for its residents. With an active community and a rich history, it is a great place to grow a family. Homes for sale in New Hill sell fast, so act fast if you want to buy here. 

Scots Laurel

It's easy to see why Scots Laurel is one of the best neighborhoods in the Apex area. The community has charming homes inside a mature neighborhood with great trees and abundant wildlife.

As one of the top communities in Apex, the Scots Laurel neighborhood is excellent for families and young professionals. It is comprised of single-family homes and townhomes and is highly safe. 

Bella Casa

Bella Casa stands out as one of the premier neighborhoods in Apex. It is a new construction community across the street from Apex Friendship High School. 

Bella Casa is located in West Apex, where much of the town is still undeveloped, offering residents a sense of spaciousness and security that comes with newer developments.

Haddon Hall

The Haddon Hall community is considered one of the finest neighborhoods in Apex, and due to its well-maintained surroundings, friendly neighbors, and beautiful pool, homes in this area sell very quickly. 

3. What Makes Apex So Safe? 

Apex residents feel very safe living here, and several factors contribute to Apex's reputation as a safe community:

Strong Law Enforcement Presence

The Apex Police Department has a significant presence and is dedicated to ensuring the community's safety. This substantial police force ensures adequate coverage for the community and enables proactive policing strategies.

The Apex Police Department takes a data-driven approach to crime prevention. It uses statistics and patterns to identify crime trends before they become a problem, allowing it to deploy resources effectively and prevent crimes before they occur.

three cops standing together smiling and happy

Community Characteristics

The safest cities in North Carolina share key characteristics beyond low crime rates, including strong community engagement, active neighborhood watch programs, and resident involvement. Apex exemplifies these characteristics with its engaged resident base and a strong sense of community.

4. How to Stay Safe in Apex

No matter where you live in the area, knowing how to stay safe in your community is essential. While Apex is statistically very secure, protecting your home and family is always wise.

The following are some tips from the NCDPS on how to protect yourself. 

  • Stay Alert: Always be conscious of what or who is around you. 
  • Be Confident: Do not let out vulnerability and avoid being alone and feeling lost. 
  • Look People Directly in their eyes: This is a simple self-defense move to help yourself in public
  • Know the Neighborhood: Be cautious of strangers as always, use well-traveled routes, and do not take shortcuts. 
  • Do not Walk Alone: Walk with people around you even if you feel like you are in a well-traveled area
  • Be Prepared: Wear comfortable clothing when you are walking and always have a plan for if something does happen

If you are attacked:

  • Do not Panic: Take control of yourself and the situation
  • Do not Resist: Give up any property that is not worth your life
  • Distract: Try to distract or confusion them, such as by screaming or running
  • If there is a weapon, remain calm, be cooperative and negotiate

5. Essential Home Safety Tips for Apex Residents 

No matter where you live, taking proactive steps to stay safe is always a good idea. Home safety should never be taken lightly. Here are key strategies every Apex resident should consider: 

Install a Comprehensive Security System: Modern security systems with cameras, motion detectors, and 24/7 monitoring can significantly deter crime. A camera system can always watch your home and scare off potential intruders before they can cause harm.

Secure All Entry Points: Ensure all doors have deadbolts and consider reinforcing door frames. Don't forget sliding doors, windows, and basement or garage entrances.

Landscape for Security: Trim bushes near windows and entry points to eliminate hiding spots. Motion-activated lighting can also deter potential intruders while providing convenience for residents.

Display Security Measures: Security system signs and stickers can serve as effective deterrents, even if they sometimes work as a psychological barrier rather than indicating active monitoring.

Maintain Situational Awareness: Even though Apex is considered a safe place to call home in the Raleigh area, it is still important to always pay attention to your surroundings.

Secure Valuables: Don't leave expensive items visible in vehicles; consider a home safe for important documents and valuables.

Establish Routines: Consistent schedules and habits can help you notice when something is out of place, and varying your routines occasionally can prevent predictable patterns that might be exploited.

Participate in Community Programs: Join or organize neighborhood watch groups, attend community meetings, and stay informed about local safety initiatives.

Stay Connected with Local Law Enforcement: Attend community policing meetings and don't hesitate to report suspicious activity to authorities.

Train tracks lit up at night with buildings in the background

Methodology

Data was sourced from NeighborhoodScout, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the North Carolina Department of Public Safety to determine whether or not Apex, NC, is a safe place to live. 

    FAQS

    Is Apex, NC, a safe place to live?

    Apex is considered one of the safest places to live in the state. Considering safer than 45% of other neighborhoods and communities in the United States, the crime rates here are lower than in similar areas. 

    What is the cost of living in Apex?

    Apex is relatively affordable, with a cost of living that is only 3% higher than the national average. Due to the low crime rates and central location, it is ideal for families. 

    How is real estate in Apex, NC?

    Even though the housing prices in Apex are 8% higher than the national average, there are still plenty of affordable options for families, young professionals, and retirees. 

    There are many beautiful homes for sale in Apex and many safe, community-oriented neighborhoods to choose from. Currently, the Apex real estate market is considered very competitive, as it is a seller's market. 

    Downtown Raleigh view from the road with lights in the dark

    Apex's Safety Advantage - The Bottom Line

    Apex, NC, offers residents an exceptional combination of suburban amenities and urban conveniences while maintaining some of the lowest crime rates in North Carolina. The community's commitment to safety, from its well-funded police department to engaged neighborhoods, creates an environment where families can thrive confidently.

    Whether considering Southwest Apex for its superior safety statistics or exploring new developments or established neighborhoods, you'll find a community prioritizing resident safety and well-being.

    No matter where you live in Apex, you and your family can access amenities and local favorites. Whether you are looking for a single-family home, townhome, condominium, or apartment complex, Apex has everything you need.

    For those considering moving to the Triangle area, Apex offers rapid growth and development while maintaining the security and community feel that makes a house feel like home.

    With proper precautions and community engagement, residents can take full advantage of everything this exceptional town offers. Contact our experienced agents at Raleigh Realty to help you find the perfect community for your family's needs. 

    WRITTEN BY
    Ryan Fitzgerald
    Ryan Fitzgerald
    Realtor

    Hi there! Nice to 'meet' you and thanks for visiting our Raleigh Real Estate Blog! My name is Ryan Fitzgerald, and I'm a REALTOR® in Raleigh-Durham, NC, the owner of Raleigh Realty. I work alongside some of the best Realtors in Raleigh. You can find more of my real estate content on Forbes, Wall Street Journal, U.S. News and more. Realtor Magazine named me a top 30 under 30 Realtor in the country (it was a long time ago haha). Any way, that's enough about me. I'd love to learn more about you if you'd like to connect with me on Facebook and Instagram or connect with our team at Raleigh Realty. Looking forward to connecting!

    WRITTEN BY
    Ryan Fitzgerald
    Ryan Fitzgerald
    Realtor

    Hi there! Nice to 'meet' you and thanks for visiting our Raleigh Real Estate Blog! My name is Ryan Fitzgerald, and I'm a REALTOR® in Raleigh-Durham, NC, the owner of Raleigh Realty. I work alongside some of the best Realtors in Raleigh. You can find more of my real estate content on Forbes, Wall Street Journal, U.S. News and more. Realtor Magazine named me a top 30 under 30 Realtor in the country (it was a long time ago haha). Any way, that's enough about me. I'd love to learn more about you if you'd like to connect with me on Facebook and Instagram or connect with our team at Raleigh Realty. Looking forward to connecting!

    Chapters
    01
    Apex Crime Statistics
    02
    Safe Neighborhoods in Apex
    03
    What Makes Apex So Safe?
    04
    How to Stay Safe in Apex
    05
    Essential Home Safety Tips for Apex Residents

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