Before deciding to move to any city in the United States, it's essential to consider safety issues.

Columbus has grown to be the 14th largest city in the U.S., and as such, crime statistics vary widely in relation to the city's size. The overall impression is that "it's definitely better than major cities like New York or Chicago, but you should be cautious compared to smaller towns."

According to FBI crime statistics, Columbus has a somewhat higher violent crime rate than the national average. In particular, the eastern areas of the city (Linden, Hilltop, parts of Franklinton) are known for frequent reports of gun-related incidents and drug-related crimes. The Linden area has long been considered a place with weak public safety in Columbus, and it's advisable to be especially careful at night. Hilltop, an older residential area located to the west of downtown, also has relatively high reports of vehicle theft and residential break-ins.

On the other hand, suburban areas to the north and northwest, such as Dublin, Westerville, New Albany, and Hilliard, where many Korean residents live, have crime rates significantly lower than the national average, resulting in a higher sense of safety. In Dublin, for instance, the number of violent crimes per 100,000 people is only one-fifth of that in downtown Columbus. For this reason, most Korean families raising children prefer suburban areas.

Trendy areas like Short North and German Village are lively during the day with tourists and young people, but at night, incidents of pickpocketing and disturbances related to alcohol can occur. Particularly on weekend nights, the area around High Street, which is dense with bars and clubs, can get crowded, so caution is needed when parking at night or moving alone. However, this area is not particularly dangerous; it just requires the usual precautions typical of busy urban areas.

Car-related crimes are a concern throughout Columbus. Break-ins targeting items left in vehicles are especially common in shopping mall parking lots and park parking lots. It's crucial not to leave bags or electronics visible in the car and to develop the habit of storing them in the trunk or taking them with you. Additionally, theft of catalytic converters is a persistent issue in the Columbus area, so owners of vehicles that are easy targets, like Toyota Priuses or pickup trucks, should check their insurance.

Overall, the sense of safety in Columbus can vary greatly depending on which neighborhood you choose. Websites like NeighborhoodScout or SpotCrime can help you check crime statistics around specific addresses, so it's advisable to do this before moving. The official site of the Columbus Division of Police also provides crime maps by area. Gathering information in advance and making an informed decision about your move can help reduce regrets later on.