As an energetic, diverse, and culturally rich city, Oakland offers a unique blend of creativity, community spirit, and opportunity. But like many rapidly evolving urban areas, it also faces real challenges, leading many residents and visitors to ask the same pressing question: Is Oakland safe?
In this guide, we break down the Oakland crime rateĀ withĀ the latest data, compare it with other major U.S. cities, and explore how safety varies from neighborhood to neighborhood. Youāll also learn practical tips for living in or visiting Oakland safely. Letās startĀ now!
What Is the Latest Oakland Crime Rate?
According to the latest Oakland California crime rateĀ data, Oakland remains one of the highest-crime cities in the United States. With a population of 435,042, the city reported 8,376 violent crimes, resulting in a violent-crime rate of 1,925 incidents per 100,000 residents. This is more than five times the national average of roughly 380 per 100,000 and significantly higher than other major metros such as Dallas, Phoenix, and Chicago.
A closer look at the numbers highlights the severity of Oaklandās violent crime. In 2024, the city reported 81 murders, 296 rapes, 2,960 robberies, and 5,039 aggravated assaults. Aggravated assault dominates the category, translating to 1,158 assaults per 100,000 residents, one of the highest rates among comparable U.S. cities. Robbery is another major contributor, occurring at roughly 681 robberies per 100,000 residents.
Property crime in Oakland is even more widespread. The city logged 31,455 property crimes, producing a property-crime rate of 7,230 incidents per 100,000 residents, one of the highest rates in the country. These include 3,423 burglaries, 18,118 larceny-theft cases, 9,914 motor-vehicle thefts, and 114 arsons. Overall, Oaklandās 2024 crime data reflects extremely high levels of both violent and property crime, far above most large U.S. metropolitan areas.
How Does Oaklandās Crime Rate Compare to Other U.S. Cities?
Compared with other major cities, Oaklandās crime rate stands out as one of the highest in the nation. The violent crime rate in Oakland, CaliforniaĀ is several times higher than that of most similarly sized metros, making Oakland a notable outlier.
A comparison with Minneapolis (population 423,282) illustrates the gap clearly. Minneapolis reported 4,911 violent crimes, resulting in a rate of 1,106 per 100,000 residents, far lower than Oaklandās 1,925. Miami (population 460,392) recorded just 2,179 violent crimes, a rate of 473 per 100,000, nearly four times lower than Oaklandās. These contrasts position Oakland among the most violent mid-sized cities in the U.S.
Property crime shows an equally dramatic divide. Oaklandās property-crime rate of 7,230 per 100,000 residents exceeds that of Minneapolis, Miami, Tulsa, and similar-sized metros by a wide margin. High levels of larceny-theft (18,118 cases) and motor-vehicle theft (9,914 cases) push Oakland to crime levels rarely seen even in much larger cities.
Nationally, Oakland ranks within the top 0.5% of all U.S. cities for violent crime and the top 1% for property crime, underscoring the cityās severe and persistent safety challenges.
Which Oakland Neighborhoods Are the Safest &Ā Which to Watch?
The crime varies significantly across Oaklandās neighborhoods. Safer areas include Montclair, Rockridge, Upper Rockridge, Trestle Glen, and Forestland. These communities benefit from active neighborhood associations, stronger security presence, and hillside locations that limit through-traffic and reduce opportunistic crime.
However, higher-risk neighborhoods, particularly parts of East Oakland, West Oakland, and areas along major arterial corridors, experience elevated levels of violent crime, burglary, and motor-vehicle theft. Older infrastructure, heavier foot traffic, and fewer consistent community resources contribute to higher incident concentrations.
Overall, Oaklandās neighborhood-level differences are substantial, making hyper-local awareness essential for residents, commuters, and visitors evaluating safety in the city.
How to Live or Visit Safely in Oakland
Known for relativelyĀ high crime rates, Oakland requires a more intentional approach to safety. A mix of preparation, awareness, and smart tools can greatly reduce your risk and make your experience far more secure.
Research Before Visiting
Before choosing where to stay or spend time, research each neighborhood carefully. Oakland varies block by block, so review recent crime maps, local community forums, and traveler feedback. Prioritize well-lit areas with reliable transit access, avoid isolated zones after dark, and plan your routes ahead of time to minimize unnecessary risks.
Gear Up With Security Tech
If you are a long-term resident of OaklandĀ or even a frequent visitor, having reliable security tech is one of the smartest ways to protect your home, apartment, or short-term rental.
A strong starting point is installing security cameras, which create a clear visual record of activity around your home. The eufyCam S4Ā takes outdoor monitoring further with 4K clarity and long-range detail capture. Its dual-lens setup and PTZ tracking allow it to follow movement automatically, giving you better visibility of suspicious activity.
For residents who want continuous, professional-grade protection, the eufy PoE NVR Security System S4 MaxĀ is a powerful upgrade. With wired reliability, large local storage, and 24/7 recording, it ensures every moment is captured, even if Wi-Fi drops.
Inside the home, the eufy Indoor Cam S350Ā provides complete room coverage with smooth pan-and-tilt motion and 4K detail. Whether you want to check in on kids, pets, or your apartment while traveling, its AI-powered movement tracking keeps you fully informed.
Entryway protection is equally important. The eufy Video Doorbell E340Ā gives you instant alerts when someone approaches and includes two-way audio so you can communicate safely without opening the door. In neighborhoods with frequent package theft or unwanted visitors, video doorbellsĀ like this one are extremely valuable.
Stay Aware in High-Traffic Areas
When moving through busy or unfamiliar parts of Oakland, stay alert and confident. Keep your phone accessible but not exposed, use main streets instead of shortcuts, and trust your instincts if something feels off. Awareness is one of the strongest tools you have, especially in crowded transit hubs and entertainment districts.
Keep Your Belongings Secured
Oaklandās high property-crime rate makes personal security essential. Never leave bags unattended, store valuables out of sight, and lock vehicles every time you park. Use anti-theft bags, avoid displaying expensive gear, and secure important documents in a safe place. Small habits can significantly reduce your risk of theft.
Conclusion
Is Oakland, California, safe? Now you know that theĀ Oakland crime rateĀ is significantly higher than both national averages and cities of similar size, making safety awareness an essential part of daily life. Yet, Oakland remains a vibrant, culturally rich city with many safe neighborhoods and strong community pockets.
By researching your surroundings, choosing accommodations carefully, and using practical safety strategiesāalong with reliable security tools like cameras, doorbells, and comprehensive security systems like the eufy ExpertSecure System, you can navigate Oakland safely and confidently.
FAQs
Where does Oakland rank in crime?
Oakland ranks among the highest-crime cities in the United States. Based on 2024 crime data, its violent crime rate sits within the top 0.5% nationally, and its property crime rate ranks within the top 1%, making it one of the countryās most crime-impacted mid-sized cities.
Is it safe to walk around in Oakland?
Safety depends heavily on the neighborhood and time of day. Walking is generally safer in the hills and well-trafficked areas, while flatland districts require more caution. Avoid isolated streets at night, stay alert, and stick to well-lit, populated routes when exploring.
Is crime in Oakland increasing?
No, the crime in Oakland is not currently increasing. After substantial spikes in 2023, both violent and property crime have shown noticeable declines through 2025. Despite this improvement, overall crime levels remain high compared to national averages and long-term city trends.
Is Oakland getting safer?
Yes, Oakland is slowly becoming safer, with several major crime categories trending downward since 2024. However, the city still experiences elevated rates of theft, assault, and vehicle crime. With awareness, proper precautions, and surveillance tools like security cameras, residents and visitors can navigate the city more safely as conditions continue improving.
