San Diego often gets grouped in with other Californian cities that have high rates of homelessness and crime, but it’s important to note that San Diego is actually one of the safest cities in the state. If you’re looking for a safe neighborhood in San Diego for 2023, keep reading to find out which areas made the list.
Is San Diego Safe?
San Diego is considered a safe city with a well-organized police force and low gang activity compared to other cities in California. The average crime rate in 2022 was 2,064 per 100,000 people, which is 12% lower than the national average and 20% lower than the California average.
10 Safest Neighborhoods in San Diego
-
- Nestor
- Egger Highlands
- Miramar
- Scripps Ranch
- Alta Vista
- Rancho Penasquitos
- Rancho Bernardo
- Carmel Valley
- Sabre Springs
- La Jolla
1. Nestor
Nestor, located in southern San Diego, is known to be the safest neighborhood in the area. With a population of 16,560 residents, it boasts an almost non-existent crime rate, making it one of the safest places in California. In 2022, there were only 40 incidents of violent crime per 100,000 people, making Nestor 98% safer than the state average. The chances of becoming a victim of any crime in this neighborhood are only 1 in 2,440, giving residents peace of mind. Additionally, with an average home price of $581,400, Nestor is an affordable option in comparison to other areas in California.
2. Egger Highlands
Egger Highlands, situated in the southern region of San Diego, boasts a population of 9,877 residents and is renowned for its safe living environment. The crime rate in Egger Highlands is significantly lower than the national average, with only 55 violent and 76 property crimes per 100,000 individuals. Its proximity to downtown, beaches, the airport, and nearby military bases also makes it a convenient location to reside in. In addition, residents can take a short drive to the Tijuana Valley park, a well-known attraction in the area.
3. Miramar
Miramar, located in north San Diego, is considered to be one of the safest neighborhoods in the area. With just over 2,000 residents, the community boasts a crime rate that is 79% below the national average. Specifically, Miramar has 40 violent crimes and 506 property crimes per 100,000 people. It’s worth noting that many of the residents in Miramar live on the Marine Corps Air Station base, which provides additional security measures. Thanks to the military infrastructure and its close proximity, Miramar is a very safe and secure place to live.
4. Scripps Ranch
With its population of 36,540, Scripps Ranch is a peaceful coastal bedroom community and is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in San Diego. The crime rate here is 75% lower than the national average, making it an ideal place to call home. The neighborhood is conveniently located near the Marine Corps Air Base, and residents can enjoy recreational fishing as a popular hobby. Downtown San Diego is also just a quick 20-minute drive away, making it easy to explore the city. The median home price in Scripps Ranch is $619,742, making it an affordable option for those looking to settle in a safe and welcoming community.
5. Alta Vista
Located in southeastern San Diego, Alta Vista is a peaceful community known for its exceptional safety record. With a population of 9,210, the neighborhood boasts a crime rate of 204 violent crimes and 487 property crimes per 100,000, making it 72% safer than the national average. The median home price in Alta Vista is $339,814, while the median rent price is $1,712, only slightly above the national average.
6. Rancho Penasquitos
Located in the northeastern part of San Diego, Rancho Penasquitos is a suburban neighborhood that boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the city, making it a safe haven for its population of 63,300 people. With only 755 incidents per 100,000 people, residents have a 1 in 133 chance of becoming victims of any type of crime. The neighborhood is also conveniently adjacent to the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, a renowned outdoor space that offers a wide range of activities such as hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.
7. Rancho Bernardo
With a population of 44,185, Rancho Bernardo boasts of a low crime rate of 775 per 100,000 people, which is 67% lower than the national average. The area is characterized by rolling hills and canyons, providing a peaceful and secluded environment that is still conveniently close to downtown. The median home price in Rancho Bernardo stands at $553,456, with a median rent of $1,732.
8. Carmel Valley
Carmel Valley, situated in the northwestern corner of San Diego, is a secure and serene neighborhood that boasts a population of 39,559. With a low crime rate of 85 violent crimes and 744 property crimes per 100,000 people, the area is considered 65% safer than the national average. The neighborhood has a blend of residential units, commercial offices, retail stores, restaurants, and hotels, making it an ideal place for young professionals or families with young children to reside.
9. Sabre Springs
Located in the foothills north of Scripps Ranch and Carmel Mountain Ranch, Sabre Springs is a peaceful neighborhood with a population of 14,559. The area has a violent crime rate of 101 and a property crime rate of 745 per 100,000 people. What makes Sabre Springs unique is its proximity to both the city and nature. The neighborhood is situated near Miramar Lake and the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers. Moreover, it is just a short drive away from downtown, offering the best of both worlds.
10. La Jolla
La Jolla is a stunning and secure beachfront community that boasts a population of 29,356 and a crime rate that is 27% lower than California’s average. The rarity of violent crimes in the area will give residents peace of mind. Although the median home price and average rent price in La Jolla may be high at $1.3 million and $2,740, respectively, the neighborhood’s breathtaking ocean views from its location in the San Diego hills make it worth the investment.
Read More: Top 8 Most Safest Cities in Georgia (2023)
