8 Safest Small Communities To Settle In Southern California

Choosing where to live depends on many factors. Most people consider a town's culture, entertainment, and safety before deciding where to settle. Several small cities, including the ones on this list, consistently maintain violent-crime rates that hover below state and national averages, making them standout options for people seeking both security and a sense of community. This guide guides you through eight small cities where low crime meets everyday joy. Places where the foundations of a peaceful Southern California life truly begin.

Solana Beach

This SoCal town offers both low rates of violent crime and high rates of beauty. See the beautiful shore at Fletcher Cove Park, the main city beach with bluffs, a small park, and beach access right at the foot of the town. Though the beach is small, it makes a big impact on the locals who love to surf the waves or just lounge on a blanket. Switch the sands for shops at Cedros Avenue Design District, a walkable corridor of more than 85 merchants comprised of independent boutiques, galleries, cafes, and design studios that defines Solana Beach’s artsy feel. Finally, see a show at Belly Up Tavern, a popular live-music venue hosting national touring acts in a quaint setting.

Laguna Woods

Laguna Woods is a haven for athletes of all kinds. Whether you want to walk between parks or with a new quadruped friend, travelers will love this little city. For a challenging championship course, head to Laguna Woods Golf Club, a 27-hole course surrounded by an impressive mountain range. Golf professionals are on site to offer private or group lessons to anyone who wants to improve their swing.

Get a feel for local life by taking riding lessons at the Equestrian Center. The equestrian center is a safe and favored gathering spot for equestrians and horses alike, offering lessons on horseback as well as natural horsemanship. Wind down after a day full of activities at Laguna Health & Wellness. The center offers a wide range of massage services that center not only on the body, but the mind with cutting-edge techniques such as the Neuro Therapy Massage. Other forms of therapy, such as light therapy and acupuncture, are also popular options. Crime rates here are very low, offering safety and comfort to residents and visitors alike.

Rancho Santa Margarita

So much of this town offers tourists a resort experience, mixing safety with fun. It’s easy to spend an entire summer day at Lago Santa Margarita & Beach Club, where a sand-bottom manmade lagoon is surrounded by sycamore trees, a small soft sand beach, grills, and picnic tables. More greenery awaits at what is known as the central hub of the town, Central Park. The park has a grand terrace, an amphitheater, a splash pad, and playgrounds, making it a gathering spot for all ages. Gamify all of Rancho Santa Margarita’s green space at Tijeras Creek Golf Club, an incredibly scenic and serene 18-hole course that weaves through canyons and water features in the southern part of the city. According to the Southern California Professional Golfers Association, this golf course is one of Orange County’s best golf courses. Meanwhile, violent crime rates are a fraction of state and national rates.

La Cañada Flintridge

While only 13 miles north of Los Angeles, La Cañada Flintridge is an outdoor paradise full of gardens and safe outdoor recreation options. Appreciate the beauty of this town, walk through Descanso Gardens, A 150-acre botanical garden with oak woodlands, a renowned rose garden, a Japanese garden, and the seasonal Enchanted Forest of Light. Memorial Park is another gorgeous green space and a central community park. The space is made of playgrounds and open fields that host summer concerts. The Music in the Park Concert Series is held throughout the summer, bringing new acts to the stage every Sunday night. More adventure awaits at Cherry Canyon Park. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding a popular weekend activities among locals. While the park is over 100 acres, the 2.5-mile hiking path makes it an easy way to see breathtaking panoramic views of the town below.

Moorpark

Crime rates are low in this Ventura County town. A day at Underwood Family Farms is full of fresh produce, hayrides, and baby goats. Along with being able to pick your own veggies and ride wagons, visitors can enjoy festivals throughout the year to celebrate the harvests. To see more animals, head to the Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College, a petite zoo that serves as a living classroom for wildlife care. Animals are used in the wildlife presentations, training demonstrations, and feeding demonstrations, which are open to the public on weekends and special events. Finally, explore the complex geology of Happy Camp Canyon Regional Park. Being made of 12.5 miles of trails, the forested park is great for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The 3,000-acre wilderness stretches across mountains, forests, and grasslands.

Villa Park

Being Orange County’s smallest city, Villa Park is one of SoCal’s mini but mighty hidden gems. Taste the delicious dessert that originated in the city at Rockwell’s Café & Bakery, home to the Original Chocolate Curl and Fudge Fantasy Cakes. Along with pastries, the eaterie also has a breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu full of comfort foods. Rockwells resides within Villa Park Town Center, a 10-acre shopping center. The center acts as a downtown district with plenty of specialty shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore after filling up with delectable cakes and comfort food. The town really comes alive during its specialty events throughout the year, such as the annual Dry Land Boat Parade, as well as more traditional holiday celebrations like Christmas tree lightings and Santa sightings.

Westlake Village

To experience the heart of this village, go to Westlake Lake. The 125-acre lake is the centerpiece of town life, where natural wonder meets culinary delight. The 8 miles of shoreline create a safe and scenic walking path that locals love to enjoy on foot or by bike. There are many Lakefront restaurants to choose from, from sushi bars to Americana grills. Trade lake views for a stunning mountain range by walking the Wishbone trail. The steep but secure 2-mile trail boasts views over the city and nearby mountains. Afterwards, relax at the Four Seasons Westlake Village. The full-service resort and spa draws visitors for wellness retreats, fine dining, and performances.

San Marino

San Marino is culture-packed. To experience the fullness of this culture, head to The Huntington, which is a world of its own. Within its borders lie a library, an art museum, and botanical gardens. The complex has a collection of rare books, major art collections, and over 100 acres of themed gardens: a Japanese garden, a desert garden, a rose garden, and more. Lacy Park makes for another fragrant and dreamy rose-covered walk. The 30-acre park has walking paths surrounded by towering trees and tables for a picnic. Within the idyllic park is the Thurnher House, a collection of documents highlighting local history, as well as photos and historic films that show the history of the town. The best part? Super-low crime rates offer a feeling of safety throughout the town.

Across Southern California’s mountainous and coastal landscape, these eight small communities consistently rise above the rest with low violent-crime rates and strong local personality. Each offers a distinct way of living, from sports fields, theaters, and race tracks to ocean waves, towering trees, and mountain peaks. No matter your lifestyle, these towns and cities prove that you don’t have to sacrifice culture, scenery, or opportunity to find a safe place to call home.