11 Safest Cities in California

Safety is understandably at the top of many prospective movers’ list of priorities when exploring new neighborhood options. Luckily for those who live in or are looking towards California, the choices are practically endless. Small mountain towns, dreamy coastal escapes, and thriving enclaves right by the biggest metropolises—the safest cities in California are as varied as they are safe. 

These are the Safest Cities in California to Move to

We used the latest annual safest cities report by SafeWise to compile an accurate list of the cities with the lowest crime rates in California. From the Bay Area boroughs to sunny SoCal escapes, these are the 11 safest areas in California to explore.

1. Danville

Median home price: $2.1M

Danville, CA ranks high on many lists. Not only is it officially the city with the lowest crime rate in California, but it’s also both one of the wealthiest zip codes and highest income cities in the United States. This upscale, family-friendly suburb of Oakland and San Francisco is a great place to live. But, if you’re a young adult looking to go out somewhere new every weekend, you might find yourself commuting to S.F. more often than you’d like.

2. Rancho Santa Margarita 

Median home price: $929K

Situated next to the Santa Ana Mountains, Rancho Santa Margarita is a city in Orange County offering gorgeous views and a myriad of hiking trails. As one of the safest cities in California, this beautiful enclave suits just about any interest. You’ll find a dog park, a skate park, and the beautiful Lake Rancho Santa Margarita with surrounding paths that are ideal for walking, jogging, or biking.

3. Moorpark

Median home price: $947.5K

Moorpark is a small town in Southern California with a population of about 37,000 residents. Besides being one of the safest areas in California, Moorpark is also one of the fastest-growing cities in Ventura County. Offering delicious brews, a family zoo, scenic golf courses, and plenty of recreational activities, this awesome SoCal destination is a wonderful option for both visiting and moving to.

4. Rancho Palos Verdes

Median home price: $1.9M

Boasting some of the safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, Rancho Palos Verdes is a beautiful city atop the bluffs of the pristine California coast. This affluent suburb is known for spectacular views, great beaches, and famous golf courses. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to go out and spend time in nature while living in one of the safest cities in California. And if you ever feel like you need a change of scenery, Rancho Palos Verdes is within a short driving distance from many happening places to discover.

5. Aliso Viejo 

Median home price: $888.3K

Aliso Viejo is a gorgeous locale that offers parks, trails, beautiful views, and a safe place to adventure any time of day. With crime rates way below the national and state average, Aliso Viejo’s motto, "Live Life Inspired", rings true for all 50,000 of its residents.

6. Lake Forest

Median home price: $1.1M

Another Orange County city makes the list of cities with the lowest crime rate in California. Traditional yet very forward-thinking, Lake Forest’s official slogan—“Remember the Past - Challenge the Future”—is highly reflective of its nature. Not only is Lake Forest one of the safest areas in California, but it’s also one of the most densely populated. With 20 public parks and two artificial lakes, the city invites you to enjoy tennis, basketball, volleyball, golf, hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, and tons more activities.

7. Yorba Linda

Median home price: $1.3M

It is best known as the birthplace of Richard Nixon, but that’s not all there is to Yorba Linda, one of the safest cities in California. This Southern California gem is also famous for its pleasant weather, world-class equestrian facilities, and central location that’s close to many other towns and cities. You’ll find a mix of green spaces within the city limits, including more than 100 miles of multi-purpose trails, as well as many restaurants, cultural attractions, and shopping areas.

8. Laguna Niguel

Median home price: $1.3M

Laguna Niguel is another affluent suburb in Southern California. Sitting near the Pacific Coast in the San Joaquin Hills, this gorgeous town is unlike any other place in California. Besides being one of the safest cities in California, Laguna Niguel is known for its wonderful coastal climate and relaxing surroundings that are rich with public trails and parks. With a commitment to provide a vibrant quality of life for all, it’s no surprise that Laguna Niguel continues to make the list of safest areas in California year after year.

9. Mission Viejo

Median home price: $1M

Mission Viejo is a safe city in California that’s also considered one of the largest master-planned communities ever built under a single project in the country. With close to 100, 000 residents, Mission Viejo is close enough to Downtown Los Angeles to warrant regular day trips—the state’s most iconic beaches and parks are within close driving distance as well.

10. Lincoln

Median home price: $659K

If you were starting to give up on finding a place to live in California that’s both economically sound and super safe, don’t—let us introduce you to Lincoln. Located further inland in Placer County, this community-driven town boasts the title of one of the safest cities in California with real estate prices that rival the cheapest places to live on the West Coast. Just northeast of Sacramento, this promising town is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.

11. Thousand Oaks

Median home price: $1.1M

Thousand Oaks is the second largest city in Ventura County and one of the best cities with low crime rates in California. Ideally situated to offer easy access to SoCal's most iconic attractions, Thousand Oaks is close to the stunning stretches of coastline in Malibu, entertainment attractions in Los Angeles, and the national parks further inland.