Top 5 Safest Neighborhoods to Live in Los Angeles with the Best quality of life – 2025

Top 5 Safest Neighborhoods to Live in Los Angeles with the Best quality of life – 2025

Ranking Studies
United States
California
Los Angeles

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 5 Safest Neighborhoods in Los Angeles with the Best Quality of Life this year are listed below!

Methodology

Our ranking methodology is based on a comprehensive analysis of crime statistics and community feedback to evaluate the quality of life in various areas. Crime data for the year 2023, provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, serves as the foundation for our assessment. To ensure consistency, we calculated the average number of reported crimes per 1,000 residents using 2022 census population data.

Crimes were categorized according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, which classifies offenses into Part I (serious crimes like murder, robbery, and burglary) and Part II (less severe offenses such as vandalism and drug violations). This standardized calculation method enables a fair comparison across regions with varying population sizes. It is important to note that the crime data is preliminary, partial, and subject to change as new information becomes available.

In addition to crime data, we evaluated the “best quality of life” aspect based on feedback from individuals who have moved to these areas, either from our database or from trusted online forums. This feedback focuses on factors such as job opportunities, the quality of education and healthcare, a sense of safety, the efficiency of public transportation, environmental cleanliness, and the availability of parks and recreational facilities.

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Safest Neighborhoods to Live in Los Angeles

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1. Westwood

  • Population: 50,071 (2022)
  • Crime rate: 0 crimes per 1000 people

Westwood is a vibrant mini college town nestled within Los Angeles, renowned for its youthful energy and dynamic culture. Anchored by the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), the area thrives with student-friendly restaurants, shops, and an array of entertainment options, making it a hub of social activity.

In terms of safety, Westwood stands out as one of the safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, with zero officially reported crimes in 2023—the most recent year for which data is available.

At the heart of the neighborhood lies Westwood Village, a historic shopping and business district established in 1929 by the Janss Investment Company. The Village is home to cultural gems like the Hammer Museum and Geffen Playhouse, adding artistic and historic charm to this vibrant community.

Westwood, Los Angeles, CA

2. Playa Vista

  • Population: 10,065 (2022)
  • Crime rate: 0 crimes per 1,000 people

Playa Vista is a highly sought-after neighborhood in Los Angeles, boasting an exceptionally rare crime rate of 0 crimes per 1,000 people, with no reported crimes in 2023. Known as “Silicon Beach,” it is a hub for tech and creative industries, blending innovation with modern urban living.

The area is designed for walkability, reflected in its impressive walk score of 71. Its centerpiece, the Playa Vista Runway, offers a lively mix of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Residents particularly enjoy the neighborhood’s proximity to the beach, clean air during much of the day, recreational amenities, and a strong sense of community fostered through regular events and programs.

Additionally, Playa Vista’s close access to major highways and LAX makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a vibrant, convenient lifestyle.

Playa Vista, Los Angeles. CA

3. Highland Park

  • Population: 42,122 (2022)
  • Crime rate: 0.023 crimes per 1,000 people

Highland Park has an impressively low crime rate of 0.023 crimes per 1,000 people, making it one of our top picks of the safest neighborhoods 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.

Highland Park, Los Angeles, CA

4. Sherman Oaks

  • Population: 66,686 (2022)
  • Crime rate: 0.044 crimes per 1,000 people

Sherman Oaks is one of the safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, with a remarkably low crime rate of 0.044 crimes per 1,000 people. Known as an upscale suburb within the city limits, it offers a safe and inviting environment for families and professionals alike.

Residents appreciate its balance of a lively yet peaceful atmosphere. Families are drawn to the area’s green spaces, like Fossil Ridge Park, while professionals enjoy its proximity to major freeways and its vibrant commercial scene.

Sherman Oaks is home to two stylish retail malls, including the open-air Sherman Oaks Galleria, and features an eclectic mix of dining options. Ventura Boulevard, the area’s main commercial hub, boasts everything from old-school Mexican eateries and burger joints to gastropubs, wine bars, and bustling brunch cafés, making it a sought-after destination for dining and entertainment.

Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, CA

5. Westchester

  • Population: 40,956 (2022)
  • Crime rate: 0 crimes per 1,000 people

Westchester is a suburban neighborhood in Los Angeles, prized for its proximity to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Despite a reported crime rate of 0 crimes per 1,000 people for 2023, some residents note occasional unreported incidents in certain areas. However, overall, Westchester is considered a safe community, especially during the day.

The neighborhood features well-maintained homes, parks, and golf courses, which locals appreciate for their charm and recreational opportunities. Westchester offers a peaceful environment with excellent schools and a friendly community, making it an appealing choice for families and aviation industry professionals alike.

Its larger size and busier vibe don’t detract from its safety and convenience. Additionally, many are drawn to its close proximity to some of Los Angeles’ top dining and entertainment destinations, further enhancing its appeal.

Westchester, Los Angeles, CA

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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 5 safest neighborhoods to live in Los Angeles this year 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!

 

Last year’s ranking (2024)

  1. Highland Park
  2. Westwood
  3. Playa Vista
  4. Sherman Oaks
  5. Venice Beach
  6. Westchester
  7. West LA

 

Our rankings are meticulously curated with a focus on safety, affordability, and quality of life. Please note that some locations from last year’s rankings may have been excluded from this year’s list due to deviations from our methodology. This could include areas with insufficient rental/safety data or those with higher/lower averages compared to the previous year. We encourage readers to consider these rankings in conjunction with their individual needs and preferences to make well-informed decisions.

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Ann Nacario

The author

Meet Ann – our head writer with a knack for making moving and city living a breeze. From the many details of moving to picking the perfect moving company, she’s your guide. Ann has a friendly yet detailed approach to ensure your move goes off without a hitch. When she’s not writing about relocation, it will always be on her mind, but you’ll catch her spending time with her three furry friends.
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