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Top 7 Safest Neighborhoods to Live in Los Angeles with the Best quality of life – 2023

Last updated on: August 8, 2023

Many individuals consider the cost of living in Los Angeles and its safety before moving there. Over the years, Los Angeles has taken significant steps to improve public safety, and crime rates have dropped in many neighborhoods. The city has a strong law enforcement presence, particularly the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), which aims to maintain law and order to protect its residents.

The cost of living and safety, however, do not discourage people from admiring the city of angels and the life it has to offer.

Are you looking for a neighborhood in Los Angeles where you could feel comfortable and secure? MovingWaldo has got you covered! The Top 7 Safest Neighborhoods in Los Angeles with the Best Quality of Life as of 2023 are listed below!

Methodology

Our ranking methodology is based on a careful analysis of crime rates derived from the Los Angeles Historical Crime Data provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. To ensure accuracy, we calculated the average number of various crimes per 1000 people, including the part 1 and part 2 types of crime as defined by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The crime data utilized pertains to the year 2022, a combination of violent crime and property crimes. However, the data is preliminary, partial, and liable to change when new information about specific instances becomes available.

The “Best quality of life” aspect is measured based on feedback from real people who have moved to this area in our database or real people from trusted online forums. More specifically, we generally look for positive feedback on job opportunities, quality of education, quality of healthcare, feeling of safety, public transportation, environment (cleanliness), as well as availability of recreational facilities and parks.

1. Highland Park

Very safe

Population: 57,152 (2020)
Crime rate: 0.017 crimes per 1,000 people

Highland Park has an impressively low crime rate of 0.017 crimes per 1,000 people, making it our top pick of the safest neighborhood to live in Los Angeles. It is known for its historic architecture and artsy vibe.

Hip cafés, vintage shops, and local art galleries are everywhere, attracting a mix of young professionals and families looking for an urban yet welcoming atmosphere.

Locals said that Highland Park feels a little airier, a lot of local pride, very walkable, and it’s littered with bars and cafés.

City data (2020) & LA Crime Rate (2022)

Highland Park, Los Angeles, CA

2. Westwood

Mini college town

Population: 55,143 (2020)
Crime rate: 0.018 crimes per 1,000 people

Westwood is indeed known as a mini college town within the bustling city of Los Angeles. Locals mentioned that the bright and young culture is fueled by the huge campus of the renowned University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). It has a variety of student-friendly restaurants and stores, making it a social and entertainment place.

For safety, it is indeed a safe neighborhood to live in Los Angeles, with a crime reported of 0.018 crimes per 1,000 people.

It has Westwood Village, a shopping and business area in the center of Westwood that was built in 1929 by Janss Investment Company and is home to cultural landmarks including the Hammer Museum and Geffen Playhouse.

City data (2020) & LA Crime Rate (2022)

Westwood, Los Angeles, CA

3. Playa Vista

Very walkable

Population: 47,237 (2021)
Crime rate: 0.20 crimes per 1,000 people

Playa Vista, which has a crime rate of 0.20 crimes per 1,000 people, is a sought-after neighborhood in Los Angeles. It is known as the “Silicon Beach,” because it houses the tech and creative industries.

The modern urban development prioritizes walkability, with a walk score of 71, and features the vibrant Playa Vista Runway with restaurants and shops. Locals mentioned that they enjoy the neighborhoods’ proximity to the beach, recreational amenities, and a strong sense of community through events and programs.

Playa Vista’s proximity to highways and LAX makes Playa Vista a great choice for a vibrant and convenient lifestyle.

LA Almanac (2021) & LA Crime Rate (2022)

Playa Vista, Los Angeles. CA

4. Sherman Oaks

Proximity to vibrant cafés

Population: 46,281 (2020)
Crime rate: 0.04 crimes per 1,000 people

Sherman Oaks is one of the safest neighborhoods to live in Los Angeles. With a reported crime rate of 0.04 crimes per 1,000 people.

Locals in Sherman Oaks mentioned that it is an upscale suburb within the city limits and indeed a safe neighborhood. Others mentioned that it has an upscale environment for families because of a park like Fossil Ridge Park located on it, and it is ideal for professionals seeking a lively yet peaceful setting.

It has two stylish retail malls, including the outdoor Sherman Oaks Galleria, and is surrounded by busy freeways. Old-school Mexican and burger places blend alongside gastropubs, wine bars, and vibrant brunch cafés on Ventura Boulevard, the area’s primary commercial avenue.

City data (2020) & LA Crime Rate (2022)

Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, CA

5. Venice Beach

Extremely walkable

Population: 33,836 (2020)
Crime rate: 0.05 crimes per 1,000 people

Venice Beach is a vibrant coastal neighborhood attracting beach enthusiasts. With a crime rate of 0.05 crimes per 1,000 people, it deserves the fifth spot among the safest places to live in Los Angeles.

Venice has a Bohemian vibe, thanks to the renowned Venice Beach Boardwalk, colorful murals, and unique boutiques. Living in Venice means adopting a laid-back lifestyle and enjoying ocean views.

Residents enjoy their daily errands as it does not require a car if they want to shop or just do some simple strolling as it has a walk score of 97.

City data (2020) & LA Crime Rate (2022)

Venice Beach, Los Angeles, CA

6. Westchester

Proximity to LAX

Population: 33,418 (2020)
Crime rate: 0.029 crimes per 1,000 people

Westchester offers a suburban feel and is close to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). With a crime rate of 0.029 crimes per 1,000 people, Westchester has well-maintained neighborhoods, parks, and golf courses that locals love about the place.

Locals enjoy a peaceful environment with excellent schools and a friendly community, making it an ideal location for families and aviation industry professionals. They add that Westchester is larger and busier, yet it is still nearby and secure.

Lots of people are also drawn to Westchester because it’s super close to some of the coolest dining and entertainment spots in Los Angeles.

City data (2020) & LA Crime Rate (2022)

Westchester, Los Angeles, CA

7. West LA

Easy access to the city and the beach

Population: 23,588 (2020)
Crime rate: 0.042 crimes per 1,000 people

West LA has a crime rate of 0.042 crimes per 1,000 people, making it one of the safest neighborhoods to live in Los Angeles. It is strategically located near major companies such as Google and Universal Pictures that benefit those seeking a good career.

Locals praise West LA’s central location, which provides convenient access to various parts of the city. There are also plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balanced and dynamic lifestyle.

It is near Santa Monica and Venice Beach, so its residents can enjoy ocean activities.

City data (2020) & LA Crime Rate (2022)

West LA, Los Angeles, CA

Conclusion

Los Angeles, like any major urban area, faces crime-related challenges. MovingWaldo has handled the research for you, ensuring you save time from selecting the safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

The city has several safe and family-friendly neighborhoods with a great quality of life. Check out our top 7 safest neighborhoods to live in Los Angeles in 2023 to help you decide.

Remember, individual preferences and circumstances will influence safety perceptions. If you’re planning to move soon, learn about the best moving companies in Los Angeles!

The expert

Mathieu Paquette

The author of this article also acts as MovingWaldo’s booking agent. Matt, is an accomplished relocation specialist with over 6 years of experience in the industry. Matt has earned a CAM certification (Canadian Association Of Movers), Tariff Certification (Atlas Van Lines), and has an extensive business background. Before handing off everything you own, do your due diligence… or let Matt do it for you.

Provide Matt with your move criteria. He will calculate quotes from verified movers, using the same metrics. This will make it simple to compare and book your move.