15 Safest Cities In Northern California: 2024 Ranking Edition

Which are the safest cities in Northern California with the lowest crime rates? Northern California is a beautiful region that draws visitors with its towering redwoods, rugged coastlines, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge.

The Yosemite National Park and South Lake Tahoe are well-liked vacation spots in Northern California. If you’re considering relocating here but are concerned about safety, continue reading, and I’ll describe the best neighborhoods to call home in 2024. So, let us begin!

Read also: 18 Safest Cities in Southern California to Reside in 2024

Safest Cities In Northern California: How Did I Choose the Top 15 Secure Places?

Northern California is amazing. I’ve been lucky enough to visit many of the cities I’ve listed and experience their incredible atmosphere. But before I mention the safest Northern California cities, you should know a few things:

• The low Crime Index score is 1, and the high score is 100. My crime statistics are derived from FBI records. The violent crime rate in the US is 22.7, while that of property crimes is 35.4.
• California has the 17th-highest violent crime rate in the US, with 6.1% more violent crimes reported and 6.2% more property-related crimes between 2021 and 2023.
• Burglaries and pickpocketing are two of the most common forms of property-related violence in the Golden State.

This should not scare you as there are cities considered to be safe. Let us directly proceed to learn more about the safest Northern California cities.

1. Danville

Danville is widely known as the safest city in California, with notably low incidences of property-related offenses and violent crimes. It is located in San Ramon Valley in Contra Costa County.

Danville’s nearness to other major cities like Berkeley, San Francisco, and Oakland is another perk of living there. The safety in the city is also another reason you should reside here. Take a look at the following table.

When I was in Denville I managed to have an interesting time. Now I’m going to share some interesting activities with you.

Interesting Activities in Danville

Some of the specialties to do in this city include:

• The Village Theatre: It functions as a platform for many concerts, live performances, musicals, school productions, community events, and so much more. You will also find the Village Theatre Art Gallery here.

• Blackhawk Automotive Museum: Are you a fan of vintage cars? You will love this museum as it showcases collections of classic and exotic cars.
• Golf Course: Do you fancy golfing? Danville is a popular golf center. You can play golf at popular golf courses such as Blackhawk Country Club, Crow Canyon Country Club, Diablo Country Club, and Round Hill Country Club.
• Rock City State Park: Nature lovers can appreciate the scenery, hiking trails, and outdoor recreational activities.

2. San Ramon

San Ramon is found in the San Ramon Valley east of San Francisco. It is one of the most remarkable Californian urban villages, a vibrant new community with a bright future.

San Ramon is a great place to call home in Contra Costa County. Most individuals who live in San Ramon also own their homes, giving the area a densely suburban environment. San Ramon dwells in many families and is known for its liberal politics. San Ramon’s public schools have a stellar reputation. Here is what the security of the city looks like:

Exciting Activities in San Ramon, Like Rock City State Park

Among the fun things you can do here include:

• Forest Home Farms Historical Park: It shares the agricultural past of the San Ramon Valley, and you will get to see more than 50 antique tractors.

• Bishop Ranch Regional Preserve: Hikers will love the challenging hiking trails, leading to glimpsing red-tailed hawks. I was particularly impressed by the captivating sight surrounding hills while mountain biking.
• Central Park, San Ramon: Take your child to the large playground as you relax in the picnic areas. A brief drive away is Memorial Park, a 16.3-acre space dedicated to remembering and honoring those who perished in the 9/11 attacks.
• Golf center: Put your golfing skills to the test at the beautiful Golf course of San Ramon Royal Golf Course or Canyon Lakes Golf Course.

3. Lincoln

Lincoln is located in Sierra Foothills and is part of the Sacramento metropolitan area. Lincoln offers its residents an entertaining and pleasant time. Lincoln is secure, as I have highlighted in the table below.

It has something for everyone, such as:

Interesting Activities in Lincoln

While you are here, you can go to:

• Lincoln Hills Golf Club: Golfers should check out this gorgeous course, renowned for its breathtaking vistas, rolling hills, and difficult holes.
• Thunder Valley Casino Resort: Wagering fanatics will have a collection of gaming choices to select from, dining options, and entertainment venues.
• Gluten-free and vegan wine: Lincoln is home to several vineyards that furnish wine tastings and excursions as a component of the Placer County Wine Trail. The area is popular for its Rhône-style and Zinfandel wines.

Read also: San Diego vs San Francisco: Which One is the Best for Living

4. Oakley in San Francisco

It is a city in Contra Costa County within the nine-county San Francisco’s Bay in Northern California. It acquired its name from the many oak trees growing there. In this beautiful city, you will find:

• Shopping centers;
• Safeguarded shorelines;
• Vineyards;
• Biking trails;
• Hiking trails.

You can relax while in this city as it is safe. Here is a table to illustrate.

Interesting Activities in Oakley

With all the amenities I have mentioned above, it is clear that there are a lot of fun activities to keep you occupied and ecstatic. Such comprises:

• Heart of Oakley Festival: I definitely recommend that you visit Oakley to commemorate the entire community and culture every September. An open-air market is held at Civic Center Plaza, where local artisans, farmers, and vendors offer merchandise to attendees.

• Delta de Anza Regional Trail: Keep fit as you walk or run this 15-mile-long trail. While doing so, enjoy exquisite sceneries of the area, like the Contra Costa Water District Canal.

5. Hollister

Hollister is a municipality situated in the Central Coast region of California, serving as the administrative center of San Benito County. Here is what the data concerning the safety of the city looks like:

There is plenty to do here, like go on a glider ride or skydive for a thrilling birds-eye adventure over the city

Interesting Activities in Hollister

Some fun places include:

• Pinnacles National Park: You might ask what’s so special about Pinnacles National Park. Here, you can find rare talus caves, odd-shaped boulders formed by an extinct volcano, and California Condors.

• Pacheco State Park: This is another park you should visit as it offers outdoor recreational facilities such as horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking trails.

6. Dublin

Before it got its name from the capital of Ireland, Dublin, California, it was widely recognized as a key intersection between the San Francisco Peninsula and the rest of the state. How is the safety of the city? Take a look.

So, what can you do for fun while in Dublin, Northern California?

Interesting Activities in Dublin

There are quite several fun activities, which include:

• Emerald Glen Park: This beautiful park has all you could ask for. You can find a skate park, two huge playgrounds, bocce ball courts, picnic areas, and a neighborhood rose garden.
• The Wave: Don’t let the sunshine and warmth dampen your moods. Head to the Wave for an exciting water-based experience with a large indoor aquatic facility, a six-waterslide tower, an outdoor sports pool, and a toddler-friendly splash.

7. Cupertino

It is a city in Santa Clara County, California, United States, just west of San Jose on the western side of the Santa Clara Valley. However, portions are reaching into the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Below is the data on the crime rate.

Apple fans will find this place intriguing as it is home to this big tech company.

Interesting Activities in Cupertino

Residents in Cupertino can visit the following:

• Hike: You will fancy the Rancho San Antonio Open Space Reserve if you love nature and hiking as I do. Twenty-nine miles of hiking trails exist to choose from, like Deer Hollow Farm Trail Loop (for novices).

• Villa Montalvo County Park: Organizes exhibitions from Montalvo Arts Center, cultural events, and occasions the entire year.
• Apple Park Visitor Center: Apple fanatics will love visiting the Apple Headquarters. When you enter the glass building, you will encounter an augmented reality experience, unique Apple gear, a cafe, and pretty much anything else you could ever want to know about Apple.
• The McClellan Ranch Preserve: It used to be a horse ranch in the 1930s and 40s, but today it is home to over 100 species of birds.

8. Foster City

Foster City, the oldest master-planned community, is in San Mateo County. But if you were to stroll around the city, you wouldn’t notice anything about its foundation. Foster City’s picturesque landscape, home to several parks, dining establishments, and waterfronts, is ideal for a family-friendly lifestyle.

Foster City is safe, and I have compiled the following table to illustrate.

Interesting Activities in Foster City

Fun activities in Foster City include:

• Mariners Point Golf Center: You can perfect your golf skills at the 46 golf courses within a 20-mile radius of Foster City.
• Ryan Memorial Park: Take the kids to Ryan Memorial Park to enjoy electric train rides. You can also opt for the Vibe skateboard park, pickleball, and tennis park.

• San Francisco Bay Trail: this 500-mile trail is an excellent avenue for outdoor recreational activities, such as dog walking, jogging, and biking.

9. Daly City

Daly City comes in position two regarding the most dense city in San Mateo County. It is situated in the Bay Area, Northern California. Though not a popular city, it has plenty to offer its residents. The first thing is safety for its residents. Here, take a look:

It is close to the ocean, with plenty of outdoor recreational activities.

Interesting Activities in Daly City

There are plenty of fun places like:

• Mussel Rock Park: It offers large picnic areas and playgrounds for games like football or Frisbee.
• The Cow Palace: Many shows, concerts, and live events are hosted annually at Cow Palace. Several restaurants also offer delicious food, so make sure you don’t starve yourself.

Read also: Why Is California Called the Golden State? 13 Surprise Facts

10. Pleasanton

The city of Pleasanton can be found in Alameda County. It is an East Bay community in the Amador Valley of the San Francisco Bay Area. It is among the safest northern California cities. Study the table below to get a clearer understanding.

It’s a great destination for those searching for a rural atmosphere and exciting outdoor activities. There’s much to do and witness, from trekking through beautiful parks to exploring the city’s rich history.

Interesting Activities in Pleasanton

Pleasanton offers much to its residents, such as:

• Wine Tasting: Both Ruby Hill Winery and Rubino Estates Winery provide samples, and both are within a short drive from Pleasanton’s downtown. I was pleasantly surprised by this tasting.

• Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area: Its serene lake, spacious picnic areas, handicapped-accessible amenities, scenic trails, breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, and a range of family-friendly activities make it a must-see location in Pleasanton.
• Historic downtown: It provides a serene and lovely environment for a stroll in the afternoon or at night. You can enjoy meals and coffee at the local restaurant.

11. Rocklin

Rocklin is a small community in southern California Placer County, and its mountainous topography and stunning landscapes of the Sutter-Butte mountains and Sierra Nevada make it a popular tourist destination.

Rocklin is conveniently located close to many popular tourist destinations, including:

• Sacramento;
• Folsom Lake;
• Lake Tahoe;
• The Pacific Ocean.

How about security? Well, here is what it looks like:

Interesting Activities in Rocklin

So what can you do here for fun?

• Whitney Oaks Golf Club: Golfers can test their skills as they enjoy the spectacular scenery and wildlife.
• Quarry Park: Thrill seekers will find this place exciting. Activities here include ziplining, rock climbing, biking, hiking, and picnics.

12. Elk Grove

Elk Grove is a city in Sacramento County, Northern California. After its founding in 1850, Elk Grove quickly became a popular destination for people moving between San Francisco’s Bay and Sacramento.

The newly arriving travelers initially set their sights on subsistence farming. Elk Grove has improved greatly since the 1980s, when numerous construction projects began. Consider the table below as it has data on the city’s safety.

Now let us look at the interesting things you can do in the city.

Interesting Activities in Elk Grove

Fun activities in Elk Grove include:

• LangeTwins Family Winery: Visit this vineyard and taste the sweetest wine, and you can even become a wine club member upon request.

• Emerald Lakes Golf Course: Golf players are not forgotten. It is the perfect place to learn the ins and outs of golf as qualified instructors in Northern California give lessons.
• Elk Grove Historical Museum: This is the perfect place to learn the region’s history. There are exhibits and tours educating and explaining the city’s history.

13. Folsom

It is located in Sacramento County. Its amenities are close by, such as:

• South Lake Tahoe, which is one and a half hours away;
• San Francisco’s Bay is two hours drive away.

Residents enjoy various dining choices, like Chinese, California cuisine, Japanese, Mexican, delis, pizza, and more. On top of that, the city is safe, as I have highlighted below.

The city has plenty you can do.

Interesting Locations in Folson, Like Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary

When I was planning a trip to this city, I had no idea that I would have such a great time there. So I recommend some must-visit places:

• Folsom History Museum: The major galleries feature static displays, such as pictures, antiques, and a few interactive exhibits. Topics covered range from the mid-1800s California Gold Rush to the coming of the railroad and the development of Folsom Prison.

• Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary: At the zoo, you can find coyotes, bears, and tigers, as well as smaller animals like squirrel monkeys, macaws, and prairie dogs.
• Lake Natoma: This reservoir was formed when the Nimbus Dam on the American River was built. Non-motorized watercraft are popular.

14. Martinez

Martinez is also one of the safest Northern California cities is Martinez. Martinez, a city in the East Bay of San Francisco’s Bay, sits on the southern border of the Carquinez Strait. Here is a table showing the security data:

It is famous for its abundance of antique shops and well-preserved historic houses. Other fun activities are highlighted below.

Interesting Activities in Martinez

Ways you can have fun in Martinez include:

• Martinez Waterfront Park: You can find it in the Martinez Regional Shoreline Park. It’s a perfect place to cool down, especially during hot days. You can also find picnic areas, play areas, a soccer field, a skate park, and four softball fields.
• Martinez Museum: It is under the Martinez Historical Society. Presently, the Museum showcases a comprehensive library dedicated to the county’s history, encompassing various historical images and artifacts from the county and city.

15. Morgan Hill

Nestled in Santa Clara County, this charming town in California is a favorite among fans of fine wine and the outdoors. The ideal activity in this area is renting a car and driving around the rolling hills and vineyards surrounding it. It is among the safest northern California cities, and here is a table to illustrate.

The region has plenty of highly regarded vineyards and restaurants with Michelin stars, so you should visit some of the best natural attractions to burn it all off.

Interesting Activities in Morgan Hill

Fun must-do activities in Morgan Hill include:

• Coyote Valley Sporting Clays: This popular clay shooting facility is located in the north of Coyote and is surrounded by beautiful surroundings. Experienced shooters may battle against other professional gun enthusiasts, while novices can receive professional instruction from qualified instructors. To be honest, I found myself in a row of newbies. However, this did not prevent me from getting the maximum sensation.

• Miramar Winery: Visit this local vineyard and taste red and white wine. Afterward, you can enjoy the bocce ball game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There you have it! Those are the 15 safest Northern California cities that you can reside in. I have made it easier for you and ranked them from safest to least safe. The crime rates of these cities are lower than the national rate.

The safest city is Danville, with a total crime rate of 7.24 (per 1,000 locals), followed by San Ramon with 11.74, Lincoln with 13.47, Oakley with 13.89, Hollister with 13.91, Dublin with 15.96, and Cupertino with 16.05. In this list of the safest northern California cities, Morgan Hill is the least safe, with a total crime rate of 19.76, but it is still below the nation’s, which is violent crimes 22.7 and property crimes 35.4.

Kindly share this article with your friends so that they also get an insight into the safest northern California cities.

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