Are you considering relocating to California but worried about safety concerns? What is the safest city in California?
According to the latest statistics, Rancho Santa Margarita tops the list with extremely low crime rates, recording only 0.5 violent crimes per 1,000 residents.
So, besides Rancho Santa Margarita, which other safe cities in California are worth considering?
This guide will provide you with a detailed analysis of the 2025 safest cities to live in California rankings, reveal our evaluation criteria, and offer practical security recommendations.
Let's explore California's safest living options together and find the perfect safe haven for you.
How We Determined the Safest Cities in California
A safe city must be judged on facts, not impressions. California has 39 million residents, yet only 86% of adults say they feel secure where they live. That gap shows why clear standards are necessary when comparing communities. Families need reliable information to understand actual risks.
Our review uses two main indicators: violent crime and property crime. Violent crime includes aggravated assault, rape, murder, manslaughter, and robbery. Among these, aggravated assault and robbery appear most often. Property crime covers burglary and theft—offenses that directly affect daily life and belongings.
By studying both categories, we identify the cities where residents face fewer threats and enjoy stronger protection, giving a clearer picture of the safest places to live in California.
Top 10 Safest Cities in California in 2025
Using our safety evaluation of violent and property crime, we ranked the cities in California that stand out in 2025. These communities show the lowest risks for residents and the strongest record of protection. Here are the 10 cities that lead the state in safety.
1. Rancho Santa Margarita
Rancho Santa Margarita, with about 46,000 residents, stands out for exceptionally low crime. The city records only 0.5 violent crimes and 4.3 property crimes per 1,000 residents. Not a single murder has been reported, and overall crime is 88% below the national average.
Families strolling through the Santa Ana Mountains or relaxing at O’Neill Regional Park enjoy peace of mind in a safe, scenic community that consistently ranks among the most secure in California.
2. Danville
Danville, in the San Ramon Valley, offers safety and charm with just over 42,000 residents. It reports 0.8 violent crimes and 7.4 property crimes per 1,000 residents. Year after year, the town ranks among California’s safest.
Locals enjoy cycling along Diablo Road Trail or playing with their children at Sycamore Valley Park. Residents describe Danville as a place where families feel genuinely secure, supported by strong community bonds and consistently low crime levels.
3. Aliso Viejo
Aliso Viejo, home to nearly 50,000 residents, reflects its motto, Live Life Inspired, through safe and vibrant living. The city records only 1.1 violent crimes and 7.1 property crimes per 1,000 residents. Families stroll park trails while admiring views of the San Joaquin Hills without concern.
Beyond the numbers, residents value a welcoming atmosphere, modern amenities, and strong public safety, making Aliso Viejo one of the most appealing and secure places to settle in California.
4. Moorpark
Moorpark, with 37,000 residents, delivers small-town comfort and security. The violent crime rate is 0.7 per 1,000, while property crime has steadily declined to 6.2, showing a positive trend for families. Locals enjoy craft breweries, a family-friendly zoo, and active cultural programs, all within a safe environment.
Many newcomers praise Moorpark for offering “small-town safety with big-city convenience,” a reputation that continues to attract residents seeking peace, growth, and community spirit in Ventura County.
5. San Ramon
San Ramon, located 30 miles east of San Francisco, balances city life with safety for more than 70,000 residents. It averages only 40 violent crimes and fewer than 800 property crimes each year. Crime rates are 58% lower than the national average and 61% lower than the state average.
Families can hike the rolling hills of Contra Costa County or spend the day on local golf courses, all while enjoying the security that makes the city one of California’s safest.
6. Simi Valley
Simi Valley, with a population of about 123,000, combines safety with suburban convenience. The city records only 1.2 violent crimes per 1,000 residents and 9.8 property crimes per 1,000, both well below the averages of similarly sized cities. Known for its strong community planning and effective law enforcement, Simi Valley creates an environment where families thrive.
Exploring the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library or enjoying outdoor recreation, residents appreciate a secure community that continues to grow in reputation.
7. Laguna Niguel
Laguna Niguel dedicates one-third of its land to open space, blending natural beauty with safety. With nearly 65,000 residents, the city records just 1.0 violent crimes and 9.9 property crimes per 1,000 people. Locals enjoy a relaxed lifestyle at farmers' markets, spas, and parks while feeling secure.
The community’s focus on environmental preservation enhances quality of life, creating a unique balance where safety and scenery go hand in hand. Laguna Niguel remains one of Orange County’s most desirable cities.
8. Mission Viejo
Mission Viejo, a master-planned city with nearly 100,000 residents, offers a rare mix of safety and convenience. Crime rates sit 61% below the California average, with only 113 violent crimes reported annually. Families spend weekends sailing on the 125-acre lake, attending community events, and exploring numerous parks.
With youth programs and strong local services, Mission Viejo stands out as a city designed for safe living. Residents describe it as a secure, welcoming place to raise families.
9. Yorba Linda
Yorba Linda, about 30 miles from Los Angeles, gives residents a safer, calmer lifestyle compared with the busy metropolis nearby. With a population of nearly 70,000, the city reports only 0.4 violent crimes and 11.5 property crimes per 1,000 residents in 2025. Both rates sit far below state and national averages.
Residents describe Yorba Linda as a place offering urban opportunities alongside neighborhood security, creating a balanced lifestyle that continues to attract families looking for long-term stability.
10. Irvine
Irvine, with a population exceeding 300,000, shows that large cities can still be safe, among the safest cities to live in California. The city records only 0.8 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, far below national norms.
Home to UC Irvine, it combines educational excellence, advanced industries, and cultural diversity within a carefully planned layout. Parks, trails, and modern infrastructure support daily life while keeping crime low.
How to Improve Your Security While Living in California?
Living in one of California’s safest cities brings peace of mind, but it doesn’t mean you should ignore personal security. Even low-crime communities face risks, and a few smart steps can make life even safer. Here are practical measures every resident can take to protect themselves and their home.
1. Smart Home Security Systems
Modern technology has elevated home protection. A smart system can stay alert while you sleep, guard your house when you’re away, and raise alarms before threats reach your door. That constant layer of defense is what makes smart security so effective.
The
eufy LocalSecure™ System sets a new standard. With local AI processing, your privacy data stays inside the device, never uploaded to the cloud, while response times remain lightning-fast. Its 4K color night vision delivers sharp images even in complete darkness, and facial recognition can tell family, friends, and strangers apart with precision.
For families seeking maximum protection, the eufy ExpertSecure System adds 24/7 professional monitoring. Door and window sensors trigger instant alerts, video verification confirms the threat, and the monitoring team contacts you and law enforcement without delay.
2. Guard Dogs
While technology is advanced, sometimes the most traditional methods are most effective. A well-trained guard dog is not only an excellent early warning system but also a loyal family companion.
When choosing a guard dog, consider your living situation. Large breeds like German Shepherds and Rottweilers have strong deterrent power, while small breeds like Beagles and Yorkshire Terriers are more suitable for apartment living but equally alert.
However, owning a dog requires responsibility. Make sure you have enough time to train and care for them, as a poorly trained dog might bring unexpected problems.
3. Personal Safety Awareness Enhancement
Sometimes the simplest habits can bring the greatest safety benefits. In daily travel, avoid going out alone at night, choose well-lit streets and parking lots—these seemingly basic practices can effectively reduce risks.
Conclusion
What is the safest city in California? The answer depends on clear data, not impressions. Rancho Santa Margarita currently leads with the lowest crime rates, but other cities on our list also provide secure, family-friendly environments. Still, even in the safest places, personal security should remain a priority. Simple steps, such as strong habits, community awareness, and modern protection tools, add extra peace of mind. For lasting safety at home, trusted solutions like eufy help families stay protected.
FAQs
What is the #1 safest city in California?
According to the latest 2025 statistics, the safest city in California is Rancho Santa Margarita. This Orange County city records only 0.5 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, with an overall crime rate 88% lower than the national average. Following closely are Danville, Aliso Viejo, and Irvine, all known for their extremely low crime rates and high-quality living environments.
Which city has the worst crime rate in California?
Oakland has the highest crime rate in California. With a population of 434,036, the city reports about 5,520 violent crimes each year, equal to 1,271 incidents per 100,000 residents. Annual figures include roughly 78 murders, 372 rapes, 2,859 robberies, and 2,211 aggravated assaults. These numbers place Oakland at the top of the state’s crime rankings, making it one of the most dangerous cities in California.
What is the safest and most affordable city in California?
Clovis is often considered the cheapest yet safest place to live in California. With a population of about 102,000, a median home price of $263,500, and rent of around $1,093, it offers affordable housing compared to much of the state. Crime rates are safer than 62% of U.S. cities, and residents enjoy excellent schools, a family-friendly atmosphere, and quick access to Yosemite National Park, making Clovis a standout choice for affordable and secure living.
