Safest Cities in California. Everything You Need to Know

Over 39 million people live in California. Of that number, only 86% of adults report feeling safe where they live.

If you're looking to be part of that number, you will want to make sure that you find a safe city in California to reside in. From property crime statistics to violent crime, we've compiled the statistics you will want to know. Keep reading this article to learn about the safest cities in California!

What Metrics Define the Safest Cities in California?

Determining the safest cities depends on several metrics. The statistics look at California's crime rate by city. It also adds in statistics about property theft, larceny-theft, auto theft, burglary, aggravated assault, and a few others.

Violent crime rates are level at about 430 per 100,000 residents. This ranks California as having the 12th highest violent crime rate in the country. The most violent crimes in California are aggravated assaults.

However, even though California is rated as the 12th most violent state, it's important to note that the top 50 cities in California fall below the state, regional, and national averages.

Even for cities that fall below the crime averages, it's always beneficial to get a home security service that will keep you as safe as possible.

Violent Crime versus Property Crime

Property crime is the most popular type of crime in the United States. Of this specific crime, larceny and burglary rank the highest among property crimes committed each year.

Violent crime consists of aggravated assault, rape, murder, manslaughter, and robbery. The most popular types of violent crime in the United States are aggravated assault and robbery.

1. Danville

Danville is a small town of just over 44,000 people. It is located in the San Ramon Valley and was named the safest town in California in 2020.

The violent crime rate falls at .05 per 1,000 residents and 6.6 property crimes per 1,000 residents.

With constant community events, historical sites, recreational sites, and community parks, you will feel right at home. You can ride your bike on the Diablo Road Trail or take your dog to the Canine Corral in the dog park. Sycamore Valley Park offers playgrounds for kids, a fountain, reflection pond, and an area for recreational activities like jogging and bocce ball.

2. Rancho Santa Margarita

Ranked as one of the safest cities in California, Rancho Santa Margarita is also nestled in one of the most beautiful areas of California. It is situated next to the Santa Ana Mountains, offering gorgeous views and a myriad of hiking trails.

You'll always feel safe, whether you are visiting O'Neill Regional Park, heading to Lago Santa Maria, or wandering through the trails at Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park.

3. Moorpark

Moorpark has a small population of 37,000 residents and is located in southern California. It is one of the fastest growing cities in Ventura County, and for good reason. As one of the safest cities in California, Moorpark offers delicious brews, a family zoo, art centers, and plenty of recreational activities.

The violent crime rate in Moorpark is at a rate of .7. The property crime rate has declined over the last three years to hover around 6.2.

4. Rancho Palos Verdes

You won't want to pass up the opportunity to live here, a beautiful coastal city atop the bluffs of Palos Verdes. You will never get sick of wandering the pristine California coast or visiting one of the many parks located in the city.

The current population of Rancho Palos Verdes is just over 41,000 residents. With only a .22 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, Ranchos Palos Verdes easily makes it onto the list of the safest cities in California.

5. Aliso Viejo

Aliso Viejo is located in Orange County, California. Their motto of "Live Life Inspired" rings true for all 52,000 residents of the city. 

Aliso Viejo offers parks, trails, beautiful views, and a safe place to adventure around. The crime rate is 63% below the national crime rate and 66% below the state crime rate.

Violent crimes average around only 40 per year, while there are around 450 nonviolent crimes per year. As for the violent crimes, that is less than .1% of crime per capita. Even better, the violent crime rate has been on the decline.

6. San Ramon

Located 30 miles east of San Francisco, San Ramon is a beautiful and safe city. The city has over 70,000 residents. Not only does it meet the criteria to be one of the safest cities in California, but it is also one of the wealthiest and safest cities on the list.

Of the crime in this city, the most popular crimes committed each year are larceny and burglary. There is an average of 40 violent crimes per year and a little below 800 property crimes. These crimes fall 58% below the national crime rate and 61% below the state crime rate.

If you decide to move to San Ramon, you'll get to bask in the beauty of Contra Costa County. You will find yourself exploring the surrounding outdoor areas, hiking, golfing, and enjoying the sunshine California has to offer. 

7. Yorba Linda

Yorba Linda is only 30 miles southeast of Los Angeles but is ranked as one of the safest cities in Southern California. You'll easily be able to explore the nearby parks, museums, and recreational areas while feeling safe from any crime.

With just under 70,000 people, Yorba Linda's crime rates fall 55% below the state and national crime rates. Of these crimes, larceny and burglary are the most popular crimes committed in the city. The violent crime rate is around 40 per year and the nonviolent crime rate is above 800 crimes per year.

8. Laguna Niguel

Laguna Niguel has a little above 66,000 residents and is located in Orange County. The city sits near the Pacific coast in the San Joaquin Hills.

Since the city takes environmental issues very seriously, they have dedicated over one-third of the city to open space. Within the city itself, there are two community parks and over 23 neighborhood parks that you can explore.

When you get tired of the great outdoors, there are so many other things Laguna Niguel has to offer. You can visit the local farmer's market, visit a spa, or wander the city streets. If you feel like adventuring to the open space or anywhere in the city, you'll never feel unsafe because of the low crime rates. 

There is an average of 80 violent crimes per year and 640 nonviolent crimes. The most common crimes in Laguna Niguel reported to date are larceny and burglary.

9. Mission Viejo

Mission Viejo is one of the largest master planned cities in the country. Mission Viejo boasts a 125-acre lake that is perfect for sunbathing and sailing, especially during the summer months. If you get tired of hanging out by the lake, the many trails offer a different activity to spend your days doing.

With nearly 100,000 residents, life never gets boring here. There are constantly community events, youth programs, and many parks nearby to explore.

The best part? You can explore and have a good time knowing you are in one of the safest cities in California. Mission Viejo falls 61% below the state crime rate average. With only 113 violent crimes reported in a year, you'll be able to go out and about without any fear of being harmed.

10. Thousand Oaks

Thousand Oaks is a great place for young couples and families because of its low crime rate and low violence. Thousand Oaks is only 40 miles from Los Angeles and is home to the Santa Monica National Recreation Area. It is also home to the Conejo Valley Botanical Garden and Gardens of the World.

If you get hot wandering around the gardens, you can also check out Paradise Falls or head inside to the Grant R. Brimhall Library in the city. You won't have to worry about safety at either place since this is one of the safest cities in California.

The Thousands Oaks crime rate is 53% below the national average. There were only 88 reported violent crime incidents in 2019 and zero reported murders in the city.

Ready to Move?

After reading this article, you probably feel pretty good about wanting to move to one of the safest cities in California. You have a few to choose from that you know are safe and have sound crime statistics. Now, you're ready to make a move to California!

Here at ADT, we are the most trusted security company in America. We're ready to keep you safe with our professionally installed security services. Check out what we have to offer your new home to keep you safe!