Is Forest Hills Safe, Pros and cons of living in Forest Hills

Is it Safe to Live in Forest Hills?

Forest Hills, New York, exhibits a generally safe environment with crime rates that are lower than the national average. Violent crime rates in Forest Hills are reported at 73.3 for assault, 0 for murder, and 29.3 for robbery, all of which are below national figures (Niche). Property crime statistics also show lower rates, with burglary at 73.3 and theft at 644.7 per 100,000 residents, compared to national averages (Niche).

The overall perception of safety in Forest Hills is high, with a significant majority of residents reporting feeling very safe. Approximately 55% of residents express no safety concerns, while an additional 30% feel pretty safe with only minor concerns (Niche). This widespread feeling of security contributes to the neighborhood’s reputation as a desirable place to live.

Cost of Living and Housing in Forest Hills

Forest Hills presents a cost of living that is higher than the national average, particularly in housing expenses. The median home price in Forest Hills, NY, was approximately $465,833 as of February 2026 (Redfin). Renters can expect to pay a median rent of $2,875 per month as of April 2026, which is significantly higher than the national average (Apartments.com).

The housing market in Forest Hills is characterized by a median sale price per square foot of $466 (Redfin). While home prices have seen a year-over-year increase, the market is considered somewhat competitive (Redfin). The rental market also reflects these higher costs, with studios averaging around $2,121 and one-bedroom apartments around $2,464 per month (Apartments.com).

Job Market and Economy in Forest Hills

The employment rate in Forest Hills, Queens, NY, is currently robust at 95.25% (BestNeighborhood.org). The average salary in Forest Hills is approximately $60,006 annually, equating to about $28.85 per hour (ZipRecruiter). Most salaries in the area fall between $38,500 and $81,250 annually (ZipRecruiter).

Major employers in the vicinity include healthcare providers like Northwell Health, which operates several facilities in the area, including LIJ Forest Hills (Northwell Health). Retail and service industries are also significant, with companies like McDonald’s, Target, and UPS having a presence (Indeed.com). The job market offers a range of opportunities across various sectors.

Climate in Forest Hills

Forest Hills experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summer high temperatures are typically warm, while winter temperatures can be cold with occasional snow. The area experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year.

Specific temperature and rainfall data for Forest Hills can be obtained from NOAA, which provides detailed climate information for the region. The climate is generally characterized by warm summers and cool winters, with precipitation distributed across the seasons.

Education in Forest Hills

Forest Hills is served by highly-rated educational institutions. Forest Hills High School in Queens, NY, has an overall Niche grade of A- and is recognized for its diversity and college preparatory programs (Niche). The school boasts a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1, with 82% of students proficient in math and reading (Niche).

For younger students, the Forest Hills Public School District in Michigan has received an A+ overall grade and is ranked among the best in the state for athletes and teachers (Niche). These strong educational offerings contribute to the appeal of Forest Hills for families.

Demographics of Forest Hills

Forest Hills is a diverse neighborhood with a population of approximately 71,068 residents (Point2Homes). The median age is around 44 years, with a balanced gender distribution (Point2Homes). The racial makeup is varied, with Caucasian individuals forming the largest group at 47.8%, followed by Asian residents at 28.5% (Point2Homes).

The median household income in Forest Hills was $141,010 in 2024 (Point2Homes). A significant majority, 91.2%, of residents live above the poverty line (Point2Homes). The population includes a substantial percentage of US-born citizens and naturalized citizens, contributing to the neighborhood’s multicultural character.

Pros and Cons of Living in Forest Hills

Forest Hills offers a compelling mix of advantages and disadvantages for potential residents. The neighborhood’s safety, with crime rates below the national average, is a significant draw (Niche). Its highly-rated school system provides excellent educational opportunities for children (Niche).

However, the cost of living, particularly housing expenses, is notably high compared to national averages (Redfin, Apartments.com). While the job market is stable with a good employment rate, salaries may vary significantly by occupation (ZipRecruiter). The climate is seasonal, offering distinct weather patterns throughout the year.