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Cities / Nashville / Sunnyside North West vs Donelson South

Sunnyside North West vs Donelson South: which is safer?

Sunnyside North West is the safer of the two — 86/100 against 80/100. Go. Sunnyside North West is an affluent, safe, and picturesque residential enclave situated adjacent to Nashville's lively 12 South corridor. Violent crime is rare, though standard precautions against opportunistic property crimes such as vehicle break-ins should be maintained.

Sunnyside North West

Nashville, Tennessee

86

out of 100 · Go

Nestled next to historic Sevier Park and the bustling 12 South district, Sunnyside North West features charming historic cottages and upscale modern homes. It offers visitors a peaceful, leafy neighborhood setting within easy walking distance of premier boutiques, cafes, and dining.

Walk score
72
Bike score
65

Pros

  • Violent crime rates are consistently well below the broader Nashville metropolitan average.
  • High median household incomes and strong homeownership create well-maintained, stable streets.
  • Immediate walking proximity to Sevier Park's open green spaces and the historic Sunnyside Mansion.

Cons

  • Opportunistic property crime, especially vehicle break-ins and theft from vehicles, occurs periodically.
  • Heavy spillover parking and traffic from adjacent retail corridors on peak weekends.
  • Sidewalk infrastructure is narrow or intermittent on some older interior side streets.

Donelson South

Nashville, Tennessee

80

out of 100 · Go

Donelson South is an established suburban community situated just south of the main Donelson commercial core and adjacent to Nashville International Airport. It features peaceful mid-century residential subdivisions, greenway access, and commercial corridors along Donelson Pike and Elm Hill Pike.

Walk score
28
Bike score
34

Pros

  • Violent crime rates are significantly lower than the Nashville metro average.
  • Strong homeownership and stable middle-income residential base.
  • Quick and convenient access to Nashville International Airport (BNA) and Percy Priest Lake.

Cons

  • Opportunistic vehicle break-ins and property crime occur near airport hotels and retail strips.
  • High car dependency with minimal pedestrian infrastructure on major thoroughfares.
  • Airport noise and heavy traffic during peak hours along Donelson Pike.