The world can be dangerous sometimes, but crime is least likely in these ten Californian cities.
![Top 10 safest cities in California, ranked.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/featured-image-1-26-1024x576.png)
If you have ever wondered what the safest areas around the state of California in the USA are, we will answer that question here as we look at the cities with the lowest crime statistics.
While California is divided into 58 counties, which in turn have several cities scattered throughout, not all of them can be described as safe. That’s why we’ve compiled a list that highlights the ten safest cities in California.
So, to make sure you avoid aggravated assaults, robberies, and burglaries in California, let’s take a look at the list below.
The World Bucket List’s top facts about California:
- California’s nickname is the Golden State, due to the mid-19th century gold rush.
- It is America‘s most populous state, with a total population of over 39 million.
- Its diverse geography encompasses beaches, deserts, redwood forests, and the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
- The state capital is Sacramento, while its largest city by population is Los Angeles.
- California is a very diverse state: it has a significant Hispanic and Asian population and is home to people of many different backgrounds.
10. Thousand Oaks – a haven in Southern California
![Thousand Oaks is close to stunning beaches such as Malibu.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/thousand-oaks.jpg)
If you are looking for a safe city close to stunning beaches in Malibu and top attractions of Southern California, then Thousand Oaks is the place to consider. It is the second-largest city in Ventura County and one of the region’s safest towns.
Address: Thousand Oaks, California, USA
9. Rancho Palos Verdes – a coastal city with low crime rates
![Top 10 safest cities in California, ranked.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/rancho-palos-verdes-1024x576.jpg)
Rancho Palos Verdes is a coastal city neighbouring Palos Verdes Estates in Los Angeles County. Not only does this stunning midsize city, with a population of 41,530, rank high in California’s safest places, but it also boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the area.
Address: Rancho Palos Verdes, California, USA
RELATED READ: The World Bucket List guide to the most dangerous cities in California.
8. Mission Viejo – a safe city close to downtown LA
![Mission Viejo is close to downtown LA.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/mission-viejo-california-1024x576.jpg)
Mission Viejo is a beautiful city with a great location, close to downtown Los Angeles, many of the coast’s most beautiful beaches, and an abundance of parks and natural surroundings to keep you busy.
Oh, and did we mention that this is a great place to go if you want to stay safe and looked after?
Address: Mission Viejo, California, USA
7. Lincoln – the hidden gem of California
![Top 10 safest cities in California, ranked.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/1200px-lincoln-california-public-library-1024x576.jpg)
This often-overlooked city is a true hidden gem in California for many reasons. Let’s start with the fact that it is one of the safest cities in California and has some of the most affordable housing in the region.
It is just north of Sacramento, in Placer County, and has a strong economy and a real community feel. Need we say anymore?
Address: Lincoln, California, USA
6. Laguna Niguel – a sought-after area with a great climate
![Laguna Niguel is a sought-after area with a great climate.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/laguna-niguel-1024x507.jpg)
Laguna Niguel is south of Aliso Viejo in Southern California and is considered an ideal place to plant roots. Within this affluent community in the San Joaquin Hills there are several exceptional parks and recreation areas, and the quality of life here is outstanding.
Address: Laguna Niguel, California, USA
SIMILAR CONTENT: Our guide to the most dangerous cities in Florida.
5. Yorba Linda – the home of Richard Nixon
![Top 10 safest cities in California, ranked.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/development-yorba-linda-area-oct-1966-1024x755.jpg)
The city of Yorba Linda is home to the Richard Nixon Library & Museum since this was his home town. The city is just 37 miles from downtown Los Angeles, yet it is one of the safest cities in California and a hidden gem of the region, making it a fantastic place to settle.
Address: Yorba Linda, California, USA
4. Aliso Viejo – nestled in the Laguna Hills
![Aliso Viejo is nestled in the Laguna Hills.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/aliso-viejo-library-1024x676.jpg)
The city of Aliso Viejo is just a stone’s throw from the popular area of Laguna Beach on the coast and is nestled amongst the Laguna Hills.
It boasts some of the lowest crime reports in the state of California, making it one of the safest cities. It can be explored any time of the day without worry.
Address: Aliso Viejo, California, USA
3. Moorpark – a fantastic family-friendly city
![Top 10 safest cities in California, ranked.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/moorpark-ca-landscape-1024x768.jpg)
Moorpark, a small town in Ventura County, is a popular place to move to, as it has very low rates of violent crime and property crime.
This is considered a great place to live in and visit in California. It features lots of family-friendly activities and facilities, as well as breweries, eclectic eateries, and lots of lush surrounding areas.
Address: Moorpark, California, USA
2. Rancho Santa Margarita – surrounded by nature
![Rancho Santa Margarita is surrounded by nature.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/rancho-santa-margarita-city-hall-1024x724.jpg)
Not only is Rancho Santa Margarita a haven for nature lovers and outdoor activity enthusiasts, but residents here can relax knowing that this is one of California’s safest cities.
Address: Rancho Santa Margarita, California, USA
1. Danville – the city with the lowest crime rate in California
![Top 10 safest cities in California, ranked.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/hartz-avenue-danville-california-1024x768.jpg)
Danville has a lot going for it, given that it is one of the most sought-after locations in California and the entire country. This city in the San Ramon Valley ranks lowest in crime rates in the state.
Furthermore, its sense of community and proximity to Oakland and San Francisco make it a fantastic place to live.
Address: Danville, California, USA
READ NEXT: WBL’s guide to the most dangerous cities in Texas.
Other notable mentions
![San Ramon is a great place to feel at ease.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/pxfuelcom-1-1024x683.jpg)
San Ramon: Compared to cities of the same size, San Ramon has a lower crime rate than the average, making it a great place to feel at ease.
Murrieta: The city of Murrieta has a relatively low level of property crime and violent crime and ranks high as one of the safest cities in California and the USA.
Santa Clarita: Considered one of the safest cities to live in LA County, Santa Clarita has long been a popular choice for those looking to settle down or visit the area.
Lake Forest: Lake Forest is one of the most densely populated cities in California but is also a genuinely safe place to enjoy activities and live amongst the stunning nature.
Your questions answered about the safest cities in California
In this section, we answer some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions about the safest cities in California. We also include questions that appear often in online searches.
![Top 10 safest cities in California, ranked.](https://www.theworldbucketlist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/palm-trees-in-santa-barbara-california-panoramio-1024x768.jpg)
What city in California has the lowest crime rate?
Danville has the lowest overall crime rate, making it the safest city in California.
What is the safest part of California to live in?
The affluent communities of Danville and Rancho Santa Margarita are the safest parts of California.
What state has the lowest crime rate?
Maine boasts the lowest crime rate in the USA.
So, if you have plans to move to California or are considering a vacation sometime soon, then be sure to consider one of the ten safest cities in California, which we have listed here, to put your mind at ease while enjoying this excellent US state.
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