California, known for its breathtaking coastlines, world-class cities, and economic opportunities, also grapples with rising urban crime in certain areas. While the Golden State boasts safe neighborhoods and thriving communities, some cities face persistent security challenges. This article explores the 10 most dangerous cities in California based on violent crime rates, property crimes, and overall public safety concerns.
To gain deeper insights into the safety challenges faced by urban communities, check out our detailed list of the Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in America (2025–2026). This ranking sheds light on rising crime trends and the factors influencing urban safety across the U.S.
Why These Cities Are Considered the Most Dangerous in California
Crime statistics are gathered from FBI data and local law enforcement reports, taking into account:
- Violent Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents)
- Property Crime Rate
- Gun Violence Incidents
- Aggravated Assault & Homicide Rates
- Motor Vehicle Theft & Burglary Trends
1. Oakland, CA
- Violent Crime Rate: 16.85 per 1,000 residents
- Property Crime Rate: 60.23 per 1,000 residents
- Gun Violence Incidents: 285
Why It’s Dangerous:
Oakland continues to top the list of most dangerous cities in California due to widespread issues like gang activity, police understaffing, and socioeconomic disparities. The city struggles with motor vehicle theft, residential robberies, and gun-related violence, especially in East Oakland.
2. Emeryville, CA
- Violent Crime Rate: 8.00 per 1,000
- Property Crime Rate: 123.93 per 1,000
Why It’s Dangerous:
Despite its small size, Emeryville faces a disproportionately high crime rate, particularly in property-related offenses. With fewer than 13,000 residents, the city sees elevated retail theft, especially around the Bay Street shopping district.
3. Commerce, CA
- Violent Crime Rate: 12.21 per 1,000
- Property Crime Rate: 103.46 per 1,000
- Gun Violence Incidents: 25
Why It’s Dangerous:
Commerce’s small population belies its major crime issues. Larceny, motor vehicle theft, and aggravated assaults are common. Lack of community-based initiatives and limited police presence exacerbate the problem.
4. San Bernardino, CA
- Violent Crime Rate: 14.91 per 1,000
- Property Crime Rate: 30.64 per 1,000
- Gun Violence Incidents: 145
Why It’s Dangerous:
With a poverty rate nearly three times the state average, San Bernardino experiences high levels of meth-related crimes and gang violence. The police department suffers from a 41% staffing shortage, leaving many crimes unresolved.
5. Stockton, CA
- Violent Crime Rate: 13.96 per 1,000
- Property Crime Rate: 33.62 per 1,000
- Gun Violence Incidents: 270
Why It’s Dangerous:
Known for gang-related homicides and retaliatory shootings, Stockton is battling rising gun violence, particularly in its southside neighborhoods. Over 68% of murders are linked to gangs.
6. Marysville, CA
- Violent Crime Rate: 12.96 per 1,000
- Property Crime Rate: 46.11 per 1,000
- Motor Vehicle Theft Rate: 25.14 per 1,000
Why It’s Dangerous:
Marysville’s combination of aggravated assaults, high burglary rates, and limited police resources contribute to its inclusion in this list. The city faces a growing concern with theft and break-ins.
7. Red Bluff, CA
- Violent Crime Rate: 10.08 per 1,000
- Property Crime Rate: 49.01 per 1,000
Why It’s Dangerous:
While smaller than many cities on this list, Red Bluff experiences elevated levels of property crimes and violent incidents, including frequent burglaries and robberies in residential zones.
8. Barstow, CA
- Violent Crime Rate: 10.77 per 1,000
- Property Crime Rate: 38.83 per 1,000
Why It’s Dangerous:
Barstow’s remote location hasn’t shielded it from crime. The city struggles with drug trafficking, motor vehicle theft, and assaults, often tied to transient populations passing through its highways.
9. Vallejo, CA
- Violent Crime Rate: 9.65 per 1,000
- Property Crime Rate: 34.18 per 1,000
- Gun Violence Incidents: 31
Why It’s Dangerous:
Vallejo has a troubling mix of robberies, assaults, and gun-related crimes, often occurring in public areas and apartment complexes. Police response times are often delayed due to high call volumes.
10. Richmond, CA
- Violent Crime Rate: 9.20 per 1,000
- Property Crime Rate: 35.87 per 1,000
- Gun Violence Incidents: 53
Why It’s Dangerous:
Richmond’s safety issues stem from its high poverty rates, ongoing gang presence, and recurring gun violence. Community outreach efforts have made progress, but challenges persist in high-risk zones.
Final Thoughts on California’s Most Dangerous Cities
While California shines in many ways, cities like Oakland, San Bernardino, and Stockton illustrate the challenges of urban crime and public safety. It’s crucial to understand that these statistics don’t define the entire city but highlight areas that need targeted reform, community policing, and social support systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What city has the highest violent crime rate in California?
A: As of 2025, Oakland holds the highest violent crime rate in California with 16.85 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Q2. Is it safe to travel to these cities?
A: Many dangerous cities in California have safe neighborhoods. Visitors should stay informed, avoid high-crime areas, and take common-sense precautions.
Q3. What are the main causes of crime in these cities?
A: Contributing factors include poverty, gang activity, drug abuse, limited police funding, and urban overcrowding.
