Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. For single women, that decision often involves balancing affordability, safety, convenience, and quality of life—all while purchasing on a single income.
A new June 2026 study from Highland Cabinetry examined neighborhoods across the United States to identify where single women may face the greatest challenges when purchasing a home. Researchers evaluated neighborhoods based on safety, crime, average home prices, walkability, nearby amenities, and disposable income after living expenses.
According to the report, Brookwood Hills in Atlanta, Georgia, ranks as the least favorable neighborhood for single women looking to buy a home.
Atlanta Dominates the Bottom of the List
Atlanta is home to four of the ten lowest-ranked neighborhoods in the study, with Brookwood Hills, Underwood Hills, Morningside/Lenox Park, and Home Park all making the list. Researchers point to a combination of lower safety scores, higher crime concerns, and expensive housing as major factors.
The Southeast accounted for seven of the ten neighborhoods identified as the least favorable for solo female homebuyers.
The 10 Worst Neighborhoods for Single Women to Buy a Home
| Rank | Neighborhood | City | Average Home Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brookwood Hills | Atlanta, GA | $1.3 million |
| 2 | Underwood Hills | Atlanta, GA | $437,000 |
| 3 | Morningside/Lenox Park | Atlanta, GA | $1 million |
| 4 | Astrodome Area | Houston, TX | $138,000 |
| 5 | North Center | Chicago, IL | $764,000 |
| 6 | Home Park | Atlanta, GA | $487,000 |
| 7 | Midtown | Houston, TX | $359,000 |
| 8 | Parnassus Heights | San Francisco, CA | $1 million |
| 9 | Westbrae | Berkeley, CA | $1 million |
| 10 | Downtown Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | $1 million |
Why Brookwood Hills Ranked Last
Brookwood Hills received one of the lowest safety scores in the study while also carrying an average home price exceeding $1.3 million. Researchers also noted limited grocery store access, with only four grocery stores within walking distance, making everyday errands less convenient for residents who prefer to walk.
Although the neighborhood offers numerous restaurants and cafés, the report concluded that high housing costs combined with safety concerns outweighed those amenities.
Other Neighborhoods Raising Concerns
Underwood Hills ranked second overall. While its median home price is considerably lower than Brookwood Hills, researchers cited similar safety concerns along with limited walkability and fewer nearby conveniences.
Morningside/Lenox Park followed closely behind. Despite its desirable location, the neighborhood’s million-dollar average home price and lower walkability contributed to its ranking.
Houston’s Astrodome Area ranked fourth. Although housing prices are significantly more affordable, the study found lower safety scores and limited access to grocery stores and neighborhood amenities.
Rounding out the top five is North Center in Chicago. Unlike many of the other neighborhoods on the list, North Center scored well for walkability and nearby shopping and dining options. However, researchers said concerns about safety and relatively high housing costs lowered its overall ranking.
What the Study Considered
Researchers analyzed several factors that may influence the home-buying experience for single women, including:
- Neighborhood safety and crime levels
- Average home prices
- Walkability
- Access to grocery stores
- Nearby cafés, restaurants, and bars
- Estimated disposable income after living expenses
Rather than focusing solely on affordability, the study aimed to highlight neighborhoods where multiple challenges combine to make homeownership more difficult.
Final Thoughts
Every homebuyer has different priorities, and what works for one person may not work for another. While studies like this can provide helpful data points, they should be considered alongside personal research, neighborhood visits, conversations with local residents, and guidance from trusted real estate professionals.
If you’re considering buying a home on your own, taking the time to evaluate safety, affordability, and everyday convenience can help you find a community that fits both your budget and your lifestyle.
