Clearwater or St. Pete? (Pinellas Park, Gulfport: condo, sex offenders, crime)

[VitaminDNow]

Does anyone have any suggestions for decent neighborhoods in Clearwater - St. Pete that are relatively safe and somewhat affordable to buy for a single female? Normally, I'd go for younger, more artsy communities, but now am just trying to settle on a place where I can try to avoid car theft and muggings on a regular basis as much as possible. I found a few places of interest and am wondering if anyone has any input about these areas:

1. In Clearwater near Glen Oaks park

2. Pinellas Park around Davis field

3. Gulfport around the (1-5th Avenue S) on the west side of the Royal Palm cemetery

Also, some places in the United Central area???

Thanks so much for your help!!

[tjax1000]

Do you want to buy a condo or single family home? What is your price range?

[a_fl_vol]

I lived in the Glen Oaks Park (originally Chi Chi Rodriguez golf course) area for 8 years. I can tell you from personal experience it can be hit or miss area. Glen Oaks Park is divided by Court Street. The north side of Court is a higher crime area - drive down Cleveland Street and you'll understand what I am talking about. The south side is better (where I lived), but not completely safe. You have to be watchful and take necessary safety precautions. I would also note, which might hold true for most of Pinellas, there are a lot of sex offenders in that area.

In my 8 years of residency in that area, I only had one incident. Someone tried to steal my car out of my driveway. Fortunately, my dog barked up a storm and I was able to catch them in the act. They took off running. Other than that, I had no problems.