California is a popular destination for both visitors and new residents. With its beautiful beaches and the allure of Hollywood, it’s no wonder people are drawn to the state.
While many of California’s safest cities are small in size, those looking for a more urban experience have options too. Some of the safest cities in the state, with populations exceeding 50,000, offer both safety and a suburban lifestyle.
If you’re searching for a secure and pleasant place to live, check out our list of the top 10 safest cities in California with populations of at least 50,000 residents.
7 Most Safest Cities in California
1. San Ramon
- Population: 76,569
- Violent Crimes: 43 (0.0562 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 786 (1.0270 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
San Ramon, a city in Contra Costa County, located 30 miles east of San Francisco, tops our list. It has a rich history, with the first American settlers arriving in the mid-1850s. Over the years, San Ramon has grown into a stunning and prosperous city, home to over 70,000 residents.
The city takes pride in its heritage, preserving it through various museums and parks like the Forest Homes Farm Historic Park. With a median family income of $129,000, San Ramon stands as one of the most affluent cities on our list.
Additionally, it boasts impressive crime statistics, with rates sitting at 57.85% below the national average and 61.71% below the state average.
2. Aliso Viejo
- Population: 52,183
- Violent Crimes: 43 (0.0824 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 445 (0.8528 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
Aliso Viejo, a master-planned community incorporated into Orange County in 2001, prides itself on providing a safe environment for its residents.
With a motto of “Live Life Inspired,” residents can enjoy a secure lifestyle, as the crime rates in Aliso Viejo are significantly lower than both the state and national averages.
In fact, the crime rate in Aliso Viejo is 63.59% below the national average and 66.93% below the state average.
With an abundance of parks, access to the Orange County trail system, and picturesque hillside views, residents can always find new and exciting adventures right on their doorstep.
Also Read:
3. Yorba Linda
- Population: 68,794
- Violent Crimes: 44 (0.064 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 812 (1.1803 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
Located approximately 30 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles, Yorba Linda boasts a significant historical landmark as the birthplace of Richard Nixon. This charming city, known as the “Land of Gracious Living,” offers more than just its historical significance.
Yorba Linda is surrounded by natural beauty, with attractions like the Yorba Regional Park and easy access to nearby destinations such as the Orange County Zoo. Furthermore, Yorba Linda stands out in terms of safety, with crime rates impressively lower than both the national and state averages – 51.55% below the national crime rate and 56% below the state crime rate.
Also Read:
4. Irvine
- Population: 288,052
- Violent Crimes: 160 (0.0555 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 3,659 (1.2703 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
Irvine, similar to Yorba Linda, is a well-designed city in Orange County that boasts remarkably low crime rates. The city’s development started in the 1960s, and it achieved official incorporation in 1971.
With a population of nearly 300,000, Irvine is the most populous city on this list, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking an urban lifestyle without compromising on safety. In fact, Irvine’s crime rates are impressively low, with statistics showing it to be 42.25% below the national crime rate and 53.12% below the state crime rate.
Also Read:
5. Murrieta
- Population: 114,706
- Violent Crimes: 92 (0.0802 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 1,412 (1.2310 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
Murrieta, situated in Riverside County, California, is experiencing rapid growth and has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the state.
One of its notable advantages is its significantly lower crime rates, being 48.95% below the national crime rate and 53.63% below the state crime rate. In addition to this, the city offers beautiful surroundings with vineyards, parks, and picturesque landscapes.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Murrieta boasts three golf courses and abundant recreational activities, including the nearby Lake Skinner.
Also Read:
6. Thousand Oaks
- Population: 129,319
- Violent Crimes: 126 (0.0974 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 1,480 (1.1445 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
Thousand Oaks, the second largest city in Ventura County, is located 40 miles away from downtown Los Angeles. This affluent city boasts impressive safety ratings and a strong commitment to preserving the natural environment.
In fact, Thousand Oaks’ designated open space spans over 15,000 acres, providing nature areas and trails for hiking, biking, and walking. Additionally, the city’s crime rate is 51.65% below the national average and 56.08% below the state average, further contributing to its reputation as a secure community.
Also Read:
7. Chino Hills
- Population: 81,177
- Violent Crimes: 77 (0.0949 per capita)
- Nonviolent Crimes: 1,079 (1.3292 per capita)
- Most Common Crime: Larceny and Burglary
Chino Hills has crime rates that are 44.55% below the national average and 49.64% below the state average. Along with its low crime rates, the city boasts a high median family income and outstanding school districts.
Originally a small rural community in the early 1900s, Chino Hills has transformed into a suburban paradise while still preserving its natural landscape in Chino Hills State Park.