List Of Top 10 Safest Cities in San Diego To Live in 2023

As concerns over homelessness and crime continue to plague many California cities, San Diego stands out as a safe haven. If you’re planning to move to San Diego, you’ll be happy to know that the city has some of the safest neighborhoods in the state. So, if you’re looking for a peaceful and secure place to call home in 2023, read on to discover the top neighborhoods in San Diego.

San Diego is a remarkably safe city. As of 2022, the average crime rate in San Diego was 2,064 per 100,000 people, which is 12% lower than the national average and 20% lower than the California average. Moreover, the city boasts a highly efficient and well-organized police force and comparatively minimal gang activity compared to other cities in California.

10 Safest Neighborhoods in San Diego

1. 1. Nestor
   2. Egger Highlands
   3. Miramar
   4. Scripps Ranch
   5. Alta Vista
   6. Rancho Penasquitos
   7. Rancho Bernardo
   8. Carmel Valley
   9. Sabre Springs
   10. La Jolla

1. Nestor

Nestor, located in southern San Diego, is known for being the safest neighborhood in the area. With a population of 16,560, Nestor boasts an almost non-existent crime rate, making it one of the safest places in California. In 2022, the violent crime rate was only 40 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 98% safer than the state average. Residents have a 1 in 2,440 chance of becoming victims of any crime. Additionally, with an average home price of $581,400, Nestor provides an affordable option in comparison to other neighborhoods in California.

2. Egger Highlands 

Egger Highlands, situated in southern San Diego, is home to around 9,877 residents and is widely recognized as one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. With just 55 violent and 76 property crimes per 100,000 individuals, the crime rate in Egger Highlands is 96% lower than the national average. The location boasts easy access to nearby military bases, downtown, the airport, and beaches, making it a highly convenient place to reside. For nature enthusiasts, the Tijuana Valley park is also just a short drive away, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

3. Miramar

Miramar is a small neighborhood located in north San Diego and is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in the area. With just over 2,000 residents, Miramar’s crime rate is 79% below the national average. The neighborhood has 40 violent crimes and 506 property crimes per 100,000 people. Many of Miramar’s residents live on the Marine Corps Air Station base, which provides a strong military presence and contributes to the overall safety of the community.

4. Scripps Ranch

With its population of 36,540, Scripps Ranch is one of the safest neighborhoods in San Diego, boasting a crime rate that is 75% lower than the national average. Situated near the Marine Corps Air Base, it is recognized for its tranquil coastal bedroom community. Residents enjoy recreational fishing as a popular pastime, and downtown is only a short 20-minute drive away. The median home price is $619,742, making it a desirable place to call home.

5. Alta Vista

Located in southeastern San Diego, Alta Vista is a peaceful community with a population of 9,210. One of the noteworthy characteristics of this neighborhood is its remarkable safety record, with a crime rate of 204 violent crimes and 487 property crimes per 100,000 residents. This makes Alta Vista 72% safer than the national average. The median home price in Alta Vista is $339,814, while the median rent price is $1,712, which is only slightly above the national average.

6. Rancho Penasquitos

Located in the northeastern part of San Diego, Rancho Penasquitos is a secure suburban neighborhood that boasts a population of 63,300 individuals. With a crime rate of just 755 incidents per 100,000 people, the area is considered one of the safest in the city, with residents having a 1 in 133 chance of falling victim to any type of crime. The neighborhood is adjacent to the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, a well-known space that offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.

7. Rancho Bernardo

With a population of 44,185, Rancho Bernardo boasts a crime rate of 775 per 100,000 people, which is 67% lower than the national average. The area’s rolling hills and canyons provide a tranquil and secluded atmosphere that is still within close proximity to downtown. The median home price in Rancho Bernardo is $553,456, and the median rent is $1,732.

8. Carmel Valley

Located in the northwestern corner of San Diego, Carmel Valley is a highly secure neighborhood with a population of 39,559. With only 85 violent crimes and 744 property crimes per 100,000 people, Carmel Valley is 65% safer than the national average. This expansive area comprises of residential units, retail stores, commercial offices, hotels, and restaurants, making it an ideal location for young professionals and families.

9. Sabre Springs

Located in the foothills north of Scripps Ranch and the Carmel Mountain Ranch, Sabre Springs is a serene neighborhood that boasts a population of 14,559. The area is relatively safe, with a violent crime rate of 101 and a property crime rate of 745 per 100,000 people. What’s more, Sabre Springs offers the best of both worlds – city life and nature. Residents here can enjoy the nearby Miramar Lake and the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, while still being within a short drive from downtown.

10. La Jolla 

La Jolla, a stunning and secure coastal community, boasts a population of 29,356 and a crime rate 27% lower than the California average. Its residents can breathe easy knowing that violent crimes are exceptionally uncommon in the area. While the median home price of $1.3 million and an average rent price of $2,740 may be a bit steep for some, the beautiful ocean views from La Jolla’s location in the San Diego hills are truly unmatched.

Safest Neighborhoods in San Diego Bottom Line

San Diego is a city that offers a plethora of safe neighborhoods to call home. As a popular tourist destination and an amazing place to live, San Diego boasts a crime rate that is below the national average. Compared to Los Angeles, San Diego is often seen as a more relaxed and easy-going city. The neighborhoods that have made it on this list provide a perfect blend of safety and affordability, making them great options for anyone looking to settle down in this wonderful city.

Also Read:

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