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Known for its diversity, nightlife, and iconic landmarks, Los Angeles is the center of the nation’s film and television industry. When moving to LA, one of the major concerns students face is safety. While the city’s overall crime rate has decreased by 5% as of 2023, property crimes like theft and burglary remain an issue in certain areas. But worry not! Los Angeles boasts several areas that stand out for their low crime rates and community-based atmosphere. In this blog, we will take you through the top 10 Los Angeles safest neighborhoods.
Top 10 Los Angeles Safest Neighborhoods
Despite its reputation as a sprawling urban center, Los Angeles is home to several neighborhoods that stand out for their robust safety records. These safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles feature a combination of active community engagement, well-funded local police divisions, and robust neighborhood watch programs. As per the recent Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the safest areas in Los Angeles typically experience crime rates 50%-70% lower than the city average. Let’s explore the top 10 Los Angeles safest neighborhoods.
1. Sherman Oaks
Best Known For: Shopping, restaurants, & parks
Average Rent: $2,300/month
Crime Rate: 65% less than the national average
Neighborhood Vibe: Peaceful & great community
Nearby Universities: Casa Loma College & University of California
Transportation: Ventura/Beverly Glen bus stop, Sherman Way Station, & Van Nuys Metrolink Station
Situated in the San Fernando Valley, Sherman Oaks gives out a suburban vibe with a mix of residential areas and commercial hubs. This safest neighborhood in Los Angeles was developed in the 1920s as part of a broader suburban development of the city. Students choosing Sherman Oaks, one of Los Angeles safest neighborhoods, will find an array of shopping, entertainment, and dining options here. The Sherman Oaks Galleria is where you can do lots of shopping. If you love outdoor activities, the nearby Van Nuys/Sherman Oaks Recreation Center will offer you many sports facilities and green spaces. The tree-lined streets and quiet atmosphere is sure to make you feel at home at Sherman Oaks!
2. Glendale
Best Known For: Shopping, entertainment, & culture
Average Rent: $2,900/month
Crime Rate: 40% less than the national average
Neighborhood Vibe: Family-friendly & convenient
Nearby Universities: California Institute of Technology & Glendale Community College
Transportation: Ventura/Beverly Glen bus stop & Chatsworth Station – Sherman Oaks via Devonshire St
Next on our list of Los Angeles safest neighborhoods is Glendale, located at the eastern edge of the San Fernando Valley, south of the Ventura Freeway. One of the safest places to stay in LA, Glendale offers a mix of urban amenities and residential charm. The Americana at Brand is a popular outdoor shopping and entertainment center in the area, where students can unwind, shop, or watch a movie. You can even explore the Glendale Galleria, offering additional retail options. Home to a significant Armenian-American community, this safest neighborhood in Los Angeles offers robust safety and a welcoming atmosphere for students.
3. Bel Air
Best Known For: Luxury homes & privacy
Average Rent: $2,500/month
Crime Rate: 45% less than the national average
Neighborhood Vibe: Tranquil, secluded, & luxurious
Nearby Universities: University of California & American Jewish University
Transportation: Sepulveda/Getty Ctr bus stop & Los Angeles Union Station
Home to some of the luxurious estates and celebrity residents, Bel Air is one of the safest suburbs in Los Angeles. While it may seem more suited to the elite, students will find a range of student housing in Bel Air. The neighborhood is safe and offers a very calm and upscale vibe. Students living here can enjoy peaceful walks along its quiet, winding roads while admiring the stunning architecture in the area. Developed in the 1920s, this safest neighborhood in Los Angeles is quite close to UCLA (University of California Los Angeles).
4. Encino
Best Known For: Green spaces & outdoor activities
Average Rent: $2,053/month
Crime Rate: 22% less than the national average
Neighborhood Vibe: Urban feel & family-friendly
Nearby Universities: DeVry University & Keller Graduate School of Management
Transportation: Sunset/Bel Air bus stop & Los Angeles Union Station
Nestled in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, Encino is not just a serene neighborhood but also one of the safest places to stay in Los Angeles. Students will find plenty of outdoor activities to do in Encino. The Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area is best for hiking, cycling, and bird watching. If you’re seeking a quieter atmosphere, Encino is your top choice for good student housing here. Besides outdoor activities, students can explore a variety of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques adorning the area.
5. Culver City
Best Known For: Entertainment industry
Average Rent: $2,150/month
Crime Rate: 31% less than the national average
Neighborhood Vibe: Friendly, vibrant, & urban and suburban mix
Nearby Universities: Loyola Marymount University & Franklin University
Transportation: Culver City Transit Center & Culver City Light Rail Station
Next up is Culver City, home to Sony Pictures Studios and one of the best safe neighborhoods in Los Angeles! With a rich cinematic history, Culver City offers an array of things for students to explore and experience. At the Culver Theatre, you can enjoy indie films, visit the Helms Bakery District for dining and shopping, or explore the galleries and street art along La Cienega Boulevard. Culver City, one of the safest areas to stay in LA, has a youthful vibe due to its proximity to major film studios and tech startups. A safe, student-friendly suburb, Culver City offers a balance of urban amenities with a laid-back atmosphere.
6. Pacific Palisades
Best Known For: Natural beauty, upscale lifestyle, & shopping
Average Rent: $2,755
Crime Rate: 11% less than the national average
Neighborhood Vibe: Calm & welcoming
Nearby Universities: Franklin University & University of Santa Monica
Transportation: Sunset/Palisades bus stop & Union Station
Next on our list of Los Angeles safest neighborhoods is Pacific Palisades, developed in the 1920s. Situated between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this safest neighborhood in Los Angeles offers students a tranquil environment with stunning coastal views. From visiting the Getty Villa and enjoying beach days at Will Rogers State Beach to hiking the scenic trails of Temescal Canyon, there’s so much to do here. With its secure, serene, and rural vibe, Pacific Palisades makes for one of the best LA safest neighborhoods!
7. Brentwood
Best Known For: Blend of luxury and leisure
Average Rent: $3,450/month
Crime Rate: 80% less than the national average
Neighborhood Vibe: Laid-back & peaceful
Nearby Universities: Brentwood University & Mount Saint Mary’s University
Transportation: Wilshire/Bundy bus stop & 7t Street/Metro Center
A picturesque and one of the safest areas in Los Angeles, Brentwood is renowned for its leafy streets and cultural landmarks like the Getty Center, where students can explore world-class art. Being close to the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), this safest neighborhood in Los Angeles attracts a large number of students every year. The area’s upscale yet relaxed vibe, featuring an array of cafes, boutique shops, and the Brentwood Country Mart is sure to keep you entertained.
8. Playa Vista
Best Known For: Luxury housing & sustainability
Average Rent: $3,687
Crime Rate: 40% less than the national average
Neighborhood Vibe: Small-town
Nearby Universities: Loyola Marymount University & University of California
Transportation: Playa Vista Drive and Jefferson (Westside) & Metro Expo – Culver City
Featuring several tech companies, Playa Vista is known as ‘Silicon Beach.’ It is trendy, modern, and one of Los Angeles safest areas, ideal for students interested in tech or creative industries. Here, you can visit The Runway, a shopping and dining center or engage in a few happening outdoor activities at the Ballona Wetlands. The recent developments in Playa Vista, one of Los Angeles safest neighborhoods, transformed it from a Marshland into a bustling urban center.
9. Tujunga
Best Known For: Utopian communities & outdoor recreation
Average Rent: $2,699/month
Crime Rate: 46% less than the national average
Neighborhood Vibe: Rustic, suburban, & relaxed
Nearby Universities: Woodbury University & Franklin University
Transportation: Sunland Blvd & Foothill Blvd (Westbound) & Sun Valley Metrolink Station
Offering a more rugged, nature-focused lifestyle, Tujunga is also one of the safest areas to stay in Los Angeles. Despite being part of the larger city, this safest neighborhood in Los Angeles has a very relaxed, small-town vibe. The area’s history is tied to the early settlers and it played a big role as a retreat for artists and creatives in the early 20th century. Outdoor enthusiasts will love it here as they can explore the nearby Angeles National Forest for hiking, camping, and stargazing.
10. Cheviot Hills
Best Known For: Filming location & green spaces
Average Rent: $3,050/month
Crime Rate: 13.7% less than the national average
Neighborhood Vibe: Peaceful with lots of natural beauty
Nearby Universities: University of California & Franklin University
Transportation: Motor SB & Cheviot NS bus stop & Old Palms Depot station
Last but not the least on our list of Los Angeles safest neighborhoods is Cheviot Hills, a charming, residential area located near Century City and Westwood. It is a wonderful spot for students who love recreational activities as it offers golf, tennis, and open green spaces. Safety offered at Cheviot Hills is exceptional and students can enjoy the quiet, suburban atmosphere of the area. Plus, students aiming for UCLA will find it a convenient location. Since you’re applying for UCLA, don’t forget to learn about the UCLA acceptance rate when doing your research.
Safety Considerations When Choosing Los Angeles Safest Neighborhoods
When choosing the safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, students must consider several factors. Below are essential safety considerations when selecting LA safest neighborhoods:
1. Crime Rates
First of all, you must evaluate the crime statistics of the area. You can find this information from many online resources, such as crime maps or detailed reports of incidents.
2. Emergency Services Access
Next, you must check the accessibility to police, fire departments, and hospitals. When looking for the safest neighborhood in Los Angeles, it’s essential to easily access these services.
3. Walkability & Street Lighting
The safest areas in Los Angeles offer well-lit streets, especially in areas frequented by pedestrians. A high walkability score means students can comfortably walk to nearby stores, cafes, and parks.
4. Community Involvement
Areas with strong community organizations or active watch programs tend to have better safety records. So, do consider this factor when choosing Los Angeles safest neighborhoods.
5. Public Transportation & Traffic Safety
If you travel more via public transportation in the US, make sure to check the safety transit stops and routes in the area. Ensure that bus or metro stations are well-maintained, monitored, and situated in secure spots.
So, this is our list of LA safest neighborhoods! These safest suburbs of Los Angeles offers a secure and peaceful living environment to all its residents. However, it’s vital to remember that safety is dynamic and can change over time. Students coming to attend the universities in Los Angeles must, therefore, conduct their research and keep the safety considerations in mind when looking out for the safest Los Angeles suburbs.