Everything You Should Know About Crime in California

As one of the largest states in the U.S., California is home to a wide range of different cities, each of which has its own unique characteristics. If you enjoy spending time at the beach, cities like San Diego and Malibu are right on the Pacific Coast. Destinations like San Francisco and Los Angeles provide residents with all the hustle and bustle of big city life.

No matter where you live, safety is likely a primary concern of yours. The violent crime rate in California is around 4.66 for every 1,000 residents, which is higher than the U.S. average of 3.98. The property crime rate is about 21.8, compared to the U.S. average of 19.33. Crime rates are relatively stable in the state and are nowhere close to the peak of 11.1 per 1,000 residents in 1992.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the largest city in California and the second most populous one in the country. Much of the television and film industry calls Los Angeles home. As in many large cities, crime rates are relatively high there. However, some areas are less safe than others.

The violent crime rate in LA is 7.4 for every 1,000 residents, which is well above the state average. However, the property crime rate of 24.6 is only slightly higher than the state average. Bell Canyon, North Ridge, Averill Park, and Brentwood North are some of the safest areas in L.A. Venice Beach Park, Belvedere North, and Toluca Lake are a few areas that aren't as safe.

San Diego

With a population of nearly 1.4 million, San Diego is one of the largest cities in California. While the San Diego Zoo is the most popular destination there, the city is also host to numerous parks and beaches.

The violent crime rate and property crime rate in San Diego are 3.96 and 19.32, respectively. Both of these statistics fall below the state average. The safest areas in San Diego include Midway District Southeast and Balboa Park. In comparison, the areas with the highest crime rates include East San Diego, Morena, and Fleet Ridge.

San Francisco

Found in Northern California, San Francisco is the cultural and financial center of the region. However, the city has a relatively poor reputation with regard to crime. Some areas in San Francisco are more dangerous than others.

The city has a violent crime rate of 5.39 for every 1,000 residents, which exceeds the U.S. average. The property crime rate is 48.94, which is more than double the state and U.S. averages. The areas with the highest crime rates in San Francisco include Forest Knolls, Soma East, and Alamo Square East.

Long Beach

Long Beach is a popular coastal city with art galleries, historical museums, and more than 5 miles of sandy beaches. The violent crime rate for every 1,000 residents is 5.08, which is slightly higher than the state average.

As for the property crime rate, it's at 30.05, which is significantly above the state average. Most of the property crimes consist of vehicle theft or damage. The safest neighborhoods in Long Beach are Marina Pacifica, Old Lakewood City, and Los Altos.

Vehicle theft in California

Vehicle theft is a particularly frustrating issue in California that is more prevalent in recent years. In San Francisco alone, nearly 49 out of 1,000 residents are victims of property crime. No matter where you live in California, consider protecting your vehicle with an outdoor camera or Car Guard.

The outdoor camera that we offer includes a computer vision chip and Smart Deter technology to constantly monitor the area surrounding your car for signs of criminal behavior. Once you connect this device to your smartphone, you'll always have access to the camera.

If someone lingers too long, the camera emits a loud sound while illuminating an LED ring. This functionality is possible with the inclusion of our Car Guard technology, which triggers the sound and light warnings that deter criminals.

Benefits of a home security system and home automation in California

Home security and automation systems are capable of providing you and your family with the highest level of protection. Before installing a system in your home, learn about all the advantages you'll enjoy once you do:

• Protects valuable possessions: The most obvious advantage of having a home security system is that it protects your possessions and valuables. These systems use alarms to warn burglars and potential criminals. At the same time, they notify the police to speed their response.
• Offers remote access: With the inclusion of alarm operation and a smartphone app, you control every facet of the security system in your home. If you don't lock your door, you'll receive an alert through your phone, which allows you to lock it remotely. When a family member loses their keys and needs to get in your home, you can do so remotely if you're at work. Remote access means that the system is easy to control no matter where you are.
• Enhances electricity management: Everything from smart thermostats to smart locks are available with a home automation system. The thermostat is controllable from your smartphone, which allows you to control the temperature in your home at all times. For better electricity management, it's possible to connect your lights to the system as well.
• Provides more convenience: If your daily life is a busy one, security systems and safety alarms offer convenience by allowing you to protect your family even when you're at the office or running errands. Remote access functionality allows you to lock doors, arm the system, and see anyone who enters your home.
• Delivers ample customization options: You can customize the security system of your choice with a wide range of features. For instance, installing a doorbell camera at your front door allows you to see anyone who approaches your home. Additional features to consider include lights, thermostats, motion sensors, voice control systems, flood sensors, and indoor cameras. The right tools and systems give you peace of mind that you're doing everything in your power to protect your family.

Safeguard your home and family with a security system

Whether you live in a small town or a big city, crime is always a possibility. In California, as in any other state, it's important to take steps to protect yourself and everyone who lives with you.

Within every city in California, there are neighborhoods that are safer than others. If you want to feel safe where you live, consider one of them. Once you find a good place to live, enhance your security with a Vivint home security system. Contact us today at 855.822.1220 to find out more about Vivint Car Guard and the other home security and smart home devices we offer.