The safest neighborhoods to live in Los Angeles

Want to learn more about where is safe to live in LA? Here are eight of the safest and family-friendly neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

Editorial Team

By Editorial Team

safest neighborhoods los angeles manhattan beach street view

Choosing the right neighborhood significantly influences your experience when settling into a new city. Amidst considerations of budget and desired amenities, ensuring safety stands out as paramount. Los Angeles offers a range of neighborhoods with family-friendly environments, reputable schools, and low crime rates. Whether you prioritize quiet suburban living or the vibrant energy of the city center, selecting a secure neighborhood lays a solid foundation for a positive relocation experience. We took out some of the guessing for you and we present you with safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

Only you can define what must-haves are essential for living within your comfort zone. Also, keep in mind that there are several online apartment portals where you can browse through properties in the neighborhood of your choice.

Here are the eight safest areas to live in the city.

The safest neighborhoods to live in LA:

1. West Hollywood
2. Sherman Oaks
3. Marina Del Rey
4. Playa Vista
5. Encino
6. Westwood
7. Beverly Hills
8. Manhattan Beach

1. West Hollywood

WeHo, as it’s nicknamed, is an affluent area situated between Hollywood and Beverly Hills.  The local community encompasses a melting pot of cultures where diversity is welcome. You’ll quickly discover the most exclusive streets for shopping, dining, and clubbing.

An aerial view of west hollywood with residential buildings in the top left and single family homes surrounded by greenery in the bottom right.

 

Flagship stores sit side by side with celebrity chef-run eateries on Melrose Avenue all the way to Sunset Strip.

Above all, with its vibrant nightlife scene, this is an ideal place for creative professionals. It’s easy for sociable singles to feel safe and accepted here when they’re out and about at night.

2. Sherman Oaks

Sherman Oaks, nestled in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, is renowned for its combination of safety and vibrant amenities. Characterized by tree-lined streets and a welcoming community atmosphere, this neighborhood offers a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience.

A large highway with tall buildings on either side in Glendale, California.

Home to a diverse array of residents, from families to young professionals, Sherman Oaks boasts an abundance of shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities. Ventura Boulevard serves as the main thoroughfare, lined with trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, and acclaimed restaurants. But, “Is Sherman Oaks safe?” Overall, Sherman Oaks is generally considered safe, with lower crime rates compared to other areas in Los Angeles.

3. Marina Del Rey

This upscale waterside community hosts creative communities and tech businesses based in Venice. It’s one of the safest and quietest Los Angeles neighborhoods to call home.

An image of Marina del Ray in Los Angeles. Rows of boats are anchored on piers with the city skyline visible in the distance.

 

Apartment living comes in high-end condos with serene harbor views. Young professionals enjoy the peaceful pace and lower-key nightlife that can be found here. The seaside promenades and sidewalks are very well-maintained, with a wholesome beach community to match.

4. Playa Vista

This quiet residential area is also the tech hub of Los Angeles. Startups and tech giants such as Facebook, Google, and YouTube all have offices here. It’s a safe and convenient place to live for professionals and families.  Crime rates are low in this neighborhood which has an even lower cost of living. The coastal location is a big draw for renters in the area. Above all, you can find beachside entertainment here for all ages. From movies in the park to seaside summer concerts, those that love being outdoors will quickly feel right at home.

5. Encino

Encino, a neighborhood nestled in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, offers residents a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Known for its tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and lush parks, Encino appeals to families and professionals seeking a peaceful retreat from the city bustle. With top-rated schools, diverse dining options, and proximity to major freeways, Encino provides a desirable living environment. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities at places like Lake Balboa Park or explore the vibrant shopping and dining scene along Ventura Boulevard. Overall, Encino offers a balanced lifestyle with access to both natural beauty and modern amenities.

6. Westwood

This cosmopolitan neighborhood has a safe, tight-knit community with a large student population. With its proximity to UCLA, it’s a place that many students, graduates, and young professionals choose to live in. On top of that, it’s located nearby Bel Air, Century City, and Beverly Hills so it is easy to access and explore other areas of the city from here. 

A brick university building in the afternoon sun.

Mostly there are high-rise apartment buildings and smaller family homes. The tree-lined streets and low crime rates make it a desirable residential location.

Also, Westwood’s commercial district features budget-friendly drinking and dining options. Plus, there is a lively comedy club scene as well as movie theaters from a bygone era.

7. Beverly Hills

One of L.A.’s best-known neighborhoods, Beverly Hills is a starry suburban enclave in a picture-perfect setting.

An arched metal sign reading "Beverly Hills".

This safe and affluent area also has excellent schools. Alongside lesser-known landmarks for locals like the public library and urban parks which are a big draw for families. Though the neighborhood is a major tourist attraction, apartments here afford privacy.

8. Manhattan Beach

Living in this exclusive suburb comes at a high price. If you have the luxury of living here, you’ll find a safe and exceptional neighborhood. With excellent public schools and easy access to LAX, it’s ideal for families or busy singles.

Here it’s all about the oceanside activities from body surfing to beach volleyball. The upscale beach town offers a secure escape from city life without being cut off from urban activities.

Two people fishing on a pier in manhattan beach los angeles.

If you enjoy high-end living, consider renting a serviced apartment. Blueground offers fully-furnished and completely equipped apartments for a month, a year or even longer. Properties are all located in the most sought-after areas in the city.

For those looking for added security, many of Blueground’s apartments are located in buildings with a doorman. If there are any issues or concerns while staying in your turnkey home, you can immediately speak with a team member via the Blueground Guest App.

Through the app you can also request cleaning services and maintenance, such as pest control, should you require them. You’ll feel safe, secure, and stress-free throughout the entire stay. Best of all, every apartment comes move-in ready from day one.

Editorial Team

Editorial Team

The Blueground editorial team covers the best things to see, do, and experience in our cities around the world.