Are you planning on moving to Los Angeles, which could be for school, better job opportunities, or simply settling in with family? Whichever is the case, you have to do your homework to find the safest areas in Los Angeles. Nothing is more important than safety while living in major cities like LA. We’ve rounded up an in-depth review of the 10 safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles so that you can find out what makes these areas stand out, from their low crime rate to quality of life. Also, take the important factors and safety tips listed below into consideration when choosing where to stay in the Los Angeles area. So, without much ado, let’s get started!
10 Safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles
| Neighborhood | Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents) | Safety Rating | Average Home Price | Average Monthly Rent (1-bedroom) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bel Air | 3.8 | A+ | $5M – $15M+ | $4,000 – $7,500+ | Celebrities, executives, luxury seekers, privacy-focused residents |
| Glendale | 12.5 | B+ | $1M – $1.8M | $2,200 – $3,200 | Families, Armenian community, suburban lifestyle lovers |
| Los Feliz | 15.2 | B | $1.2M – $2.5M | $2,400 – $3,600 | Young professionals, creatives, walkable urban enthusiasts |
| Culver City | 14.8 | B+ | $1.1M – $1.9M | $2,500 – $3,800 | Tech/media workers, families, transit-oriented residents |
| Mar Vista | 13.6 | B+ | $1.4M – $2.2M | $2,600 – $3,900 | Mid-career professionals, families, Westside commuters |
| Sherman Oaks | 14.1 | B+ | $1.3M – $2.4M | $2,500 – $3,700 | Valley families, professionals, shopping/dining lovers |
| Encino | 11.9 | A- | $1.5M – $3M | $2,800 – $4,200 | Upscale families, professionals, equestrian/hiking enthusiasts |
| Brentwood | 9.4 | A | $2.5M – $4.5M | $3,200 – $5,000 | Affluent families, Westside professionals, quiet suburban seekers |
| Pacific Palisades | 4.2 | A+ | $3.2M – $4.5M | $3,500 – $5,200 | High-net-worth families, celebrities, nature/ocean lovers |
| Tujunga | 18.7 | B- | $700K – $1.2M | $1,800 – $2,600 | Budget-minded buyers, artists, outdoor adventurers |
Safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles: Detailed Information
Bel Air
- Best Known For: Luxury homes & privacy
- Average Rent: $2,500/month
- Average Home Price: $3.5 million
- Safety Score (According to Niche): A+
- Crime Rate: 45% lower than the national average
- Transportation: Sepulveda/Getty Center bus stop and access to Los Angeles Union Station.
- Best For: Affluent families, professionals, and students seeking a tranquil environment
Bel Air is among the safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles. The crime rate is 65% lower than other parts of LA. If you want to live in a neighborhood that oozes with luxury, Bel Air is the best option. This area is quite exclusive and has many estates, even celebrity residences. The serene ambiance including the picturesque architecture makes it such an elite abode and overall the safest part of Los Angeles.
Life in Bel Air revolves around unparalleled luxury, privacy, and expansive natural estates. Residents enjoy access to:
The Bel Air Country Club for golf and exclusive social events.
Majestic canyon views and sprawling private gardens that offer a serene, park-like setting.
Cultural touchpoints are more private but include proximity to the Getty Center and UCLA’s Hammer Museum. The neighborhood’s quiet, tree-lined streets and gated communities themselves are landmarks of prestige. It is especially ideal for high-net-worth individuals, celebrities seeking seclusion, executives, and those who prioritize utmost privacy and security above all else.
Glendale
- Best Known For: Shopping, entertainment, & culture
- Average Rent: $2,900/month
- Average Home Price: $1.2 million
- Safety Score (According to Niche): A+
- Crime Rate: 40% lower than the national average
- Transportation: Ventura/Beverly Glen bus stop, Chatsworth Station – Sherman Oaks via Devonshire St, and Glendale Transportation Center offering Amtrak and Metrolink services
- Best For: Families, young professionals, and students who want urban conveniences
Glendale is one of the safe and good neighborhoods in Los Angeles and you’ll find it at the eastern edge of the San Fernando Valley and south of the Ventura Freeway. It’s quite a charming area and has lots of amenities to make your livelihood a walk in the park. The cultural aura is also something to look out for, especially in the Armenian-American community. You’ll feel welcomed living in this neighborhood and the most fun part is that it’s home to attractions like The Americana at Brand and Glendale Galleria, where you can easily shop, dine, and be entertained.
Life in Glendale revolves around a vibrant, family-oriented suburban feel with a rich cultural tapestry. Residents enjoy access to:
The Americana at Brand and Glendale Galleria for premier shopping and dining.
Brand Park and Griffith Park (adjacent) for extensive trails, sports fields, and the historic Doctor’s House Museum.
Cultural touchpoints are deeply rooted in the large Armenian-American community, with authentic restaurants and annual events like the Glendale Food Festival. The neighborhood is especially ideal for families seeking excellent public schools (like Glendale High), a strong sense of community, and those who appreciate a blend of suburban calm with urban amenities just minutes from Downtown LA.
Los Feliz
- Best Known For: Artistic culture, trendy restaurants, walkable community
- Average Rent: $2,030/month
- Average Home Price: $1.4 million
- Safety Score (According to Niche): A
- Crime Rate: 20% lower than the city average
- Transportation: Serviced by 180, 182, 217, and DASH buses; the B Metro Rail Line; nearby Antelope Valley Line, Ventura County Line, and Pacific Surfliner; and accessible to I-5 and 101 freeways.
- Best For: Young adults, retired creatives, and dog owners
Do you know that living in Los Feliz means you’ll be super close to Beverly Hills? That’s right! You’ll be near where the action is happening and at the same time enjoy the relaxed, artsy vibe that Los Feliz brings. Being part of the safest areas in Los Angeles, people easily move around here, walking in and out of cafes, restaurants, and bars. The entertainment space is also strong as the area has lots of theaters and cinemas. You should give Los Feliz a try if you’re looking for a place that’s vibrant yet inspiring enough to call home.
Life in Los Feliz revolves around a hip, walkable village atmosphere steeped in historic charm and creative energy. Residents enjoy access to:
Griffith Park at its doorstep, offering hiking to the Hollywood Sign, the Griffith Observatory, and the Greek Theatre.
The vibrant Vermont and Hillhurst Avenue corridors, brimming with boutique shops, vintage stores, and acclaimed cafes.
Cultural touchpoints include the historic Los Feliz Theater and the architectural gems in the Los Feliz Oaks district. The neighborhood is especially ideal for young professionals, artists, writers, and anyone who loves a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle with instant access to both nature and trendy urban amenities.
Culver City
- Best Known For: Urban-suburban mix, proximity to beaches, and a strong community vibe
- Average Rent: $2,150/month
- Average Home Price: $1.2 million
- Safety Score (According to Niche): A
- Crime Rate: 31% lower than the city average
- Transportation: Culver City Bus Network, serviced by the 33 and C1-C7 buses, with easy access to I-10 and I-405 interstates
- Best For: Young adults and young families seeking safety and convenience
Culver City is one of the nice places to live in Los Angeles because it has a perfect balance between city energy and suburban calmness. The community is quite friendly and you can easily navigate the area by foot. Additionally, the fact that it’s close to places like Santa Monica and Venice Beach while also retaining visible police presence means you’re in safe hands. No matter what happens, the emergency response time is quick. If you are looking for safe places to stay in LA, Culver City can be optimal.
esidents enjoy access to:
The revitalized Culver City Downtown area, featuring the Platform shopping complex, art galleries, and a vibrant restaurant scene.
The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and the Ballona Creek Bike Path for recreation and stunning city views.
Cultural touchpoints are central to its identity, being the home of Sony Pictures Studios and the Culver City Arts District. Annual events like the Culver City Car Show foster community. It is especially ideal for tech and entertainment industry professionals, young families attracted to its top-rated schools (like Culver City High), and those who want a walkable, transit-connected lifestyle.
Mar Vista
- Best Known For: Quiet residential charm and proximity to the beach
- Average Rent: $2,700/month
- Average Home Price: $1.5 million
- Safety Score (According to Niche): A
- Crime Rate: 48% lower than the city average
- Transportation: Serviced by the Light Rail, 33, 16, CC2, and CC5 buses; access to 187 Freeway, I-10, and I-405 interstates
- Best For: Young adults, especially remote workers who value peace and privacy
Considering the safest neighborhoods in LA brings Mar Vista to mind. One thing you’ll notice immediately you step into this area is the few local amenities but despite that, its proximity to Venice Beach, Santa Monica, and Marina Del Rey makes it more vibrant, especially for people who enjoy occasional nightlife. Overall, the area has a strong sense of privacy and all the cool areas in LA is just a drive away.
Life in Mar Vista revolves around a laid-back, eco-conscious, and family-friendly Westside vibe. Residents enjoy access to:
The popular Mar Vista Farmers Market (Sundays), a community hub for fresh produce and local goods.
The Mar Vista Recreation Center and Windward Circle Park for sports, playgrounds, and community gatherings.
Cultural touchpoints include a thriving network of community gardens and the Museum of Jurassic Technology nearby. The neighborhood is especially ideal for mid-career professionals, families looking for a friendly, quieter Westside alternative, and sustainability advocates who appreciate its green initiatives and strong neighborhood council.
Sherman Oaks
- Best Known For: Suburban charm, family-friendly community, and plentiful amenities
- Average Rent: $2,300/month
- Average Home Price: $1.1 million
- Safety Score (According to Niche): A+
- Crime Rate: 65% lower than the city average
- Transportation: Serviced by 233, 237, 761, CE549, and 155 buses; nearby Ventura County Line, Coast Starlight, and Pacific Surfliner trains; easy access to 101 Freeway and I-405 Highway
- Best For: Young adults and families seeking a safe and tranquil lifestyle
One reason Sherman Oaks is known as one of the safest places to stay in Los Angeles is that it has a classic American suburban vibe. The police presence in the area is strong and they have an excellent emergency response time. The icing on the cake is the plenty of dining, shopping, and grocery options. You can live within your little budget in the area plus, it’s conveniently walkable. However, bear in mind that the neighborhood tends to get very hot, so just try and get reliable air conditioning when moving in.
Life in Sherman Oaks revolves around convenience, family-friendly amenities, and a classic San Fernando Valley lifestyle. Residents enjoy access to:
The Sherman Oaks Galleria and Ventura Boulevard for endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
The Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area, offering golf, sports complexes, dog parks, and the Japanese Garden.
Cultural touchpoints include the Sherman Oaks Castle Park and a lively dining scene that caters to all tastes. It is especially ideal for families seeking great schools (like Sherman Oaks Elementary Charter), professionals commuting to both the Valley and Westside, and those who value practicality, space, and a strong sense of local community.
Encino
- Best Known For: Green spaces, outdoor activities, and serene atmosphere
- Average Rent: $2,053/month
- Average Home Price: $1.2 million
- Safety Score (According to Niche): A
- Crime Rate: 22% lower than the national average
- Transportation: Sunset/Bel Air bus stop, Los Angeles Union Station, and access to major freeways
- Best For: Nature lovers, young professionals, and families
Living in Encino is almost like communing with nature because there are a lot of extensive green spaces. People who live there hike a lot, cycle, and even do bird watching at the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area. Given its quiet and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s one of the safest places to stay in LA. The area is also filled with an array of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, so your leisure time will be well spent.
Life in Encino revolves around spacious, upscale suburban living with a focus on outdoor recreation and equestrian culture. Residents enjoy access to:
The Encino Commons and Encino Marketplace for high-end shopping and dining.
Extensive horse trails at the Los Encinos State Historic Park and the lush fairways of the Encino Golf Course.
Cultural touchpoints include the historic Encino Rancho adobe. The neighborhood is especially ideal for affluent families seeking top-tier schools (like Portola Middle School), equestrians, golf enthusiasts, and professionals who desire large lots, tranquility, and easy access to the 101 and 405 freeways.
Brentwood
- Best Known For: Blend of luxury, leisure, and cultural landmarks
- Average Rent: $3,450/month
- Average Home Price: $2.5 million
- Safety Score (According to Niche): A+
- Crime Rate: 80% lower than the national average
- Transportation: Wilshire/Bundy bus stop, 7th Street/Metro Center, and easy access to I-405
- Best For: Students, professionals, and families seeking upscale living
You’ll find lots of cultural landmarks in Brentwood, like the iconic Getty Center. Aside from that, it’s quite close to UCLA and other nearby universities, making it an attractive place for students. Safe off-campus apartments near UCLA in Westwood can be found easily with uhomes.com. Having lots of boutique shops, trendy cafes, and the charming Brentwood Country Mart only means that residents are in for plenty of entertainment and shopping options.
Life in Brentwood revolves around an affluent, polished, and tranquil residential atmosphere with superb amenities. Residents enjoy access to:
The Brentwood Country Mart, a chic outdoor shopping and dining destination with a local, rustic feel.
The sprawling Veterans Gardens at the Los Angeles National Cemetery and the scenic San Vicente Mountain Park for walking and hiking.
Cultural touchpoints include the Getty Center just up the hill. The neighborhood is especially ideal for established professionals, academics (near UCLA), families prioritizing safety and excellent schools (like Brentwood School), and those who appreciate a refined, low-key Westside lifestyle.
Pacific Palisades
- Best Known For: Natural beauty, upscale lifestyle, and premier shopping
- Average Rent: $2,755/month
- Average Home Price: $3.1 million
- Safety Score (According to Niche): A
- Crime Rate: 11% lower than the national average
- Transportation: Sunset/Palisades bus stop, Union Station, and proximity to the Pacific Coast Highway
- Best For: Students, nature enthusiasts, and families seeking tranquility
Pacific Palisades, an area developed in the 1920s and situated between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean is part of the safest places in Los Angeles. The coastal views are so stunning with a calm and welcoming atmosphere. If you’re a resident or a student there, you’ll enjoy hiking in Temescal Canyon, spending beach days at Will Rogers State Beach, or exploring the cultural treasures of the Getty Villa.
Life in Pacific Palisades revolves around outdoor beauty and local charm. Residents enjoy access to:
Will Rogers State Beach and Temescal Canyon Gateway Park for hiking and ocean views.
Palisades Village – a stylish downtown area with boutique shops, a farmers market, and a movie theater.
Cultural touchpoints include the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine and the Palisades Art Center, which hosts local exhibitions. Annual events like the Fourth of July Parade and Palisades Americanism Parade foster strong community spirit.
Pacific Palisades is served by some of LA’s top-rated public schools, including Palisades Charter High School (GreatSchools rating: 9/10) and Palisades Elementary (10/10). The Palisades Recreation Center offers sports, classes, and playgrounds, while the Palisades Branch Library serves as a community hub. The neighborhood is especially ideal for families seeking safety and excellent schools, professionals wanting a tranquil home base, and nature lovers who value easy access to both the mountains and the sea.
Tujunga
- Best Known For: Utopian communities and outdoor recreation
- Average Rent: $2,699/month
- Average Home Price: $800,000
- Safety Score (According to Niche): A-
- Crime Rate: 46% lower than the national average
- Transportation: Sunland Blvd & Foothill Blvd (Westbound), Sun Valley Metrolink Station, and proximity to the I-210 freeway
- Best For: Nature enthusiasts, artists, and families seeking a relaxed lifestyle
When someone asks, in LA, which place is good and safe to live? Tujunga comes to mind because of the rustic and suburban vibe. Actually, this area is known to have artistic roots since it has close ties to the early utopian communities. The town is small and with the National Forest being just a stone away, bonding activities like hiking, camping, and stargazing are easily within reach.
Life in Tujunga revolves around a rustic, artistic, and fiercely independent small-town spirit within LA’s city limits. Residents enjoy access to:
The dramatic trails of the Angeles National Forest and Big Tujunga Canyon right in its backyard.
The quaint, historic Tujunga Village on Commerce Avenue, with its mom-and-pop shops, cafes, and art studios.
Cultural touchpoints are centered on its artist community, with events like the Sunland-Tujunga Art Walk. The neighborhood is especially ideal for artists, nature lovers, hikers, budget-minded buyers seeking more space, and anyone looking for a genuine, unpretentious community away from the city’s glare.
What to Consider While Choosing the Safest Areas in Los Angeles
Upon your decision to live in the safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, California, here are some factors to keep in mind:
- First, look at crime maps and local reports to ascertain the area’s crime statistics.
- Also, check to know if you can quickly access emergency services like police stations, fire departments, and hospitals in the neighborhood. You want to be sure you can get the help you need should anything happen.
- If you can easily stroll to nearby parks, cafes, and stores because the streets are well-lit and pedestrian-friendly, that’s a huge plus.
- Again, if the area has strong community organizations or active watch groups, then there are high chances of them having lower crime rates.
- Don’t forget to check the place the area’s public transport system, especially if you rely a lot on it. Ensure that the area you’re settling for has well-maintained transit hubs like bus stops and metro stations.
- You want to be sure that the neighborhood you’re going for has good air quality and isn’t open to environmental or health hazards like pollution or contamination.
- Since Los Angeles is known for experiencing earthquakes and occasional wildfires, check if the area you’re going for is highly susceptible to those natural disasters.
- If you’re a student or have kids who are of school age with you, look into the neighborhood’s distance to schools, and safety measures like security protocols and emergency plans.
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Tips for Staying Safe in LA
Even as you’re staying in one of the safest cities in Los Angeles, you should also adhere to some safety tips like the following:
- First, install a good security system, in your home. Make sure that your entryways are well-lit and secure. Getting involved in your neighborhood watch program might be a good idea.
- Stay guarded at all times, especially at night. Try not to walk alone, make sure there are people around, or just stick to walking in well-lit places and if something feels off, take precautions.
- Always keep your personal items close to your body and only take what you need.
- Try not to show off your credit card or cash as that might attract the wrong attention.
- If you own a car, ensure that you lock it always and hide valuables out of sight, even small things like loose change or a phone charger.
- Avoid passing through some of the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles at night.
Finally, if you see something that’s unusual, report that immediately to the nearby police stations.
Final Thoughts on Safest Neighborhoods in Los Angeles
For students navigating the search for student housing in the U.S., understanding neighborhood safety is key. In Los Angeles, communities such as Bel Air, Culver City, Sherman Oaks, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Tujunga, Mar Vista, and Encino are often highlighted for their security. They typically feature a strong sense of community and well-lit pathways, making them easier and safer to navigate after dark—an important consideration for students with varying schedules. Remember, even in safer areas, personal vigilance is important. Always be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious movements to the authorities immediately.
FAQ on Safest Neighborhoods in LA
Is LA Downtown safe at night?
Yes, Downtown is safe at night if you stick to well-lit and busy areas when walking. However, for places like Skid Row, it’s best to avoid it because it has a high rate of homelessness and illicit activities.
Is the area around Dulans safe?
The area around Dulan’s is generally considered safe but that depends on your personal comfort level and awareness. But to be on the safe side, stay alert and avoid walking in isolated or poor-lit areas, especially at night.
Is Culver City safe?
Yes, Culver City is a safe area to live in especially considering its proximity to Los Angeles – it’s just 20 20-minute drive. Aside from that, it has a strong sense of community and security system which explains why the crime rates have improved since to mid-90s.
Is Glendale safe?
Glendale is part of the safest cities in Los Angeles with a low violent crime rate of just 103 incidents per 100,000 residents. The strong family-friendly and community atmosphere also adds in making a welcoming and secure environment compared to other areas in LA.
Where is the cheapest and safest place to live in Los Angeles?
Encino is the cheapest and safest place to live in Los Angeles. This area is located at the San Fernando Valley. The atmosphere there is peaceful and family-friendly plus the low rental prices make it one of the best places to call home in LA.
Which part of Los Angeles is the safest overall?
These safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles offer a mix of low crime, good schools, and a strong sense of community.
Brentwood – Low crime, peaceful, and family-friendly.
Pacific Palisades – Quiet, upscale, with low crime rates and beautiful scenery.
Westwood – Home to UCLA, with a low crime rate and a vibrant community.
Sherman Oaks – Family-oriented with a suburban feel and low crime.
Cheviot Hills – Peaceful and well-maintained, with a strong community.
Toluca Lake – Quiet, affluent, and low crime.
Where is the best place to live in Los Angeles for families?
Some of the best places to live in Los Angeles for families include Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, and Manhattan Beach. These family-friendly neighborhoods are known for safety, school quality, proximity to parks, and community amenities.
Is LA safer than other major cities?
Based on recent crime data, violent crime in LA is generally lower than in several other large U.S. cities, such as Chicago, Baltimore, Detroit, and St. Louis, but higher than cities like San Diego, New York City (in recent years), and Austin. Property crime in LA—including burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft—tends to be higher than the national average.
