If you are thinking about living in Stillwater MN or just planning a weekend visit, you’ve probably heard about its reputation as the "Birthplace of Minnesota." It is famous for its historic lift bridge, antique shops, and riverboat tours. But historic charm doesn’t always guarantee safety, so it is fair to ask: aside from the scenery, is it actually a safe place to live?
The short answer is yes. Stillwater is statistically safer than both the national average and many other communities in Minnesota. While no town is completely immune to crime, this area generally avoids the heavy crime trends seen in larger metro hubs. In this guide, we will break down the latest 2026 data trends and give you the on-the-ground reality so you can feel confident about where you are buying or visiting.
Stillwater Crime Rates vs. National & State Averages
When we look at the raw numbers, Stillwater consistently performs well. If you were sitting down with a spreadsheet comparing local cities, you would see that the overall crime rate here is significantly lower—often cited around 50% to 60% lower—than the national average.
What really stands out is the violent crime rate. Compared to similarly sized U.S. cities, violent incidents here are exceptionally low. While property crime does exist (we’ll get to that in a minute), it is still below national benchmarks.
To put it in perspective, Stillwater ranks safer than approximately 50–70% of U.S. cities, depending on which specific index you look at.
- Violent crime rate: It hovers around 1 per 1,000 residents (or roughly 98 per 100,000).
- Property crime rate: You are looking at about 7–8 per 1,000 residents (or roughly 887 per 100,000).
- Comparison: The average across Minnesota is typically higher for both categories, making Stillwater a standout for stability in the region.
Violent vs. Property Crime: What the Numbers Say
It is important to distinguish between "crime" as a broad statistic and the actual risks you might face. When people worry about safety, they are usually thinking about violent offenses. Fortunately, those are rare here. Homicide has been virtually non-existent in recent years, and most reported violent incidents tend to be aggravated assaults that are often domestic or isolated rather than random acts of street violence.
Most of the police reports in Stillwater—about 80% or more—fall under property crime. This includes theft, burglary, and motor vehicle theft. However, context is key. A lot of this "crime" is opportunistic. We are talking about unlocked cars in driveways or packages swiped from porches rather than targeted home invasions.
Tourism also skews the numbers slightly. Because thousands of people flock to the downtown area on weekends, retail theft or petty theft adds to the city's statistics even though it doesn't necessarily reflect the safety of the residential neighborhoods.
- Recent data suggests violent crime is roughly 70% below the national average.
- Property crime sits at about 55% below the national average.
Safest Neighborhoods & Areas in Stillwater
Safety can feel different depending on which street you are standing on. Stillwater has a bustling commercial hub and quiet residential pockets, and the "vibe" shifts pretty drastically between them.
Downtown Stillwater: This is the heart of the action. It is generally safe, but because it is the center for nightlife and tourism, it sees higher reports of petty theft or disorderly conduct. Most of this happens late at night near the bars. It’s busy, well-lit, and patrolled, but it’s not as quiet as the suburbs.
South Stillwater & Oak Park Heights Border: If you are looking for quiet, this is a good spot. These areas are residential with lower traffic flow. Residents often cite the southeast pockets as some of the most peaceful parts of town.
North Hill & Residential Historic District: There is a strong sense of community here. You see neighbors out walking dogs and maintaining their historic homes. The perceived safety is very high, and the crime reports are generally low.
Western Neighborhoods: As you move west toward the golf courses and lakes, housing density drops. These areas are often sought after for their privacy. If you are looking for best neighborhoods in Stillwater MN regarding low crime stats, these low-density zones are top contenders.
Community Safety: Schools, Parks, and Policing
Safety isn't just about the absence of crime; it's about the presence of community. Stillwater benefits from highly rated schools in Stillwater, which often correlates with stable neighborhoods. When people move here for the Stillwater Area Public Schools, they tend to put down roots, which creates a vigilant and connected community.
You also see a lot of "eyes on the street" thanks to the active outdoor lifestyle. The trail systems, like the Brown’s Creek State Trail and the paths along the St. Croix River, are well-maintained and heavily used. When public spaces are busy with joggers and cyclists, they tend to stay safer.
The Stillwater Police Department is also very active in community engagement. Events like "Night to Unite" help residents know their local officers, building a relationship that goes beyond just responding to 911 calls. Plus, the infrastructure helps—downtown and the main corridors are well-lit and designed to be pedestrian-friendly, making evening walks feel secure.
Is Stillwater Safe for Everyone?
Different people look for different things when they ask about safety. Here is how it breaks down for specific groups:
For Residents: The area offers high safety for daily life. Many neighborhoods feature cul-de-sacs and low-traffic streets where residents feel comfortable walking or letting children play in the yard.
For Tourists: Downtown is welcoming and safe for walking, even in the evenings. The main risk here isn't physical danger; it's losing a phone in a crowd or petty theft if you leave a bag unattended.
For Retirees: The low violent crime rate makes this a very attractive destination for retirement communities in Stillwater. Beyond the stats, the strong network of community support services and healthcare access adds a layer of lifestyle safety.
The Nightlife Crowd: If you are enjoying the bars on Main Street, it is generally safe. The "hotspots" for trouble are usually related to closing time (2 AM), so standard precautions apply.
Practical Safety Tips for Residents
Even in a safe town, it pays to be smart. If you are living in Stillwater MN, there are a few local hazards that have nothing to do with criminals and everything to do with geography and climate.
- Respect the Winter Hills: This is a major local safety tip. Stillwater has very steep hills, especially leading down to the river. In winter, these roads can become incredibly dangerous. Driving on the ice here requires caution—sometimes the safest choice is to take a flatter alternate route during a storm.
- Lock Your Car: Since most crime here is opportunistic, the easiest prevention is locking your doors. Don't leave valuables on the passenger seat, even in your own driveway.
- Water Safety: The St. Croix River is beautiful but powerful. Currents can be stronger than they look. Always use life jackets and stick to designated swim areas.
- Package Security: Like many suburban areas, porch piracy happens. Using a video doorbell or a secure delivery box is a common and effective precaution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stillwater Safety
Is downtown Stillwater safe at night?
Yes, downtown is generally very safe at night. It is a popular tourist area with good lighting and regular police patrols. The main issues are typically minor disturbances related to nightlife crowds near bar closing times, rather than violent crime.
What is the most common crime in Stillwater?
Property crime is the most common type of offense, specifically theft. This often involves theft from unlocked vehicles or retail theft in the commercial districts. Violent crime is statistically very rare compared to property offenses.
How does Stillwater compare to Minneapolis in terms of safety?
Stillwater is significantly safer than Minneapolis regarding both violent and property crime rates. Many people choose to move here from the Twin Cities metro specifically for the quieter, lower-crime environment while maintaining a reasonable commute.
Is Stillwater safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Stillwater is a great destination for solo travelers. The historic downtown is walkable and busy with tourists, making it feel secure even if you are exploring alone. As with any travel destination, it is smart to stay in well-lit public areas and keep an eye on your belongings.
