Is Los Altos or San Diego Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Los Altos is safer than San Diego (Safety Score 63/100 vs 38/100), with a total crime rate of 1,289 per 100,000 versus 2,082 for San Diego — 38% lower. Los Altos has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Los Altos has a 100% lower rate.
Note: San Diego is 47.0x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Los Altos — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
San Diego — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Los Altos, CA
San Diego, CA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Los Altos | San Diego | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,289.3 | 2,082.4 | -793.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 77.8 | 412.4 | -334.6 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 2.5 | -2.5 |
| Rape Rate | 10.2 | 21.4 | -11.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 16.9 | 77.4 | -60.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 50.8 | 310.9 | -260.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,211.5 | 1,670.0 | -458.6 |
| Burglary Rate | 253.8 | 187.4 | +66.4 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 903.5 | 1,087.1 | -183.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 54.1 | 395.5 | -341.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Altos or San Diego safer?
Los Altos is safer with a total crime rate of 1,289 per 100K vs 2,082 for San Diego — a 38% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Los Altos has a violent crime rate of 77.8 per 100K while San Diego has 412.4. Los Altos has lower violent crime.
About Los Altos, CA
Los Altos, California, a suburban community in Santa Clara County, was incorporated in 1956. Known for its affluent residential areas and a charming downtown, it's situated at the southern end of the San Francisco Bay Area. With a safety score of 63/100 and a population coverage of 29,551, Los Altos has a total crime rate of 1,289.3 per 100,000 residents.
About San Diego, CA
San Diego, California, a major port city with a significant Hispanic population, sits on the Pacific Ocean just north of the Mexican border. Known for its mild climate and Balboa Park, it's also home to a large naval presence. With a safety score of 38/100 and a population coverage of 1,389,024, San Diego has a total crime rate of 2,082.4 per 100,000 residents.