Is Daly City Safe? Crime Rates and Statistics Revealed

Daly City is located in the Bay Area of San Francisco, California. Being the second-most populous city, it becomes a treasure for tourists. But the key concern for them is whether it is safe to roam in Daly City or not. Although it is appreciated for its friendly atmosphere and major city amenities, the overall crime rate is also lower (28.72%)  than the national average (33.37%). However, other factors are also considered while looking for a safe place to visit, and taking precautions is always advised.

How safe is Daly City according to the crime rate?

Daly City law enforcement ensures a safe community for residents

Before visiting Daly City, travelers must know about the violent crime rate, property crime rate, and types of crimes that are reported so far to understand the statistics. This can help in staying safe and seeking any assistance from authorities. 

Violent Crime Statistics

Violent crime offenses in Daly City include robbery, theft, assault while rape and murders are reported very rarely. When comparing it to other U.S. cities, it is significantly lower. According to crime data:

  • Violent crime rate in Daly City: 8.72 per 1000 residents.
  • National Average crime rate: 13.84 per 1000 residents.

Therefore, it can be statistically said that safer than the national average when it comes to violent crimes. So, there are fewer chances of being a victim of violent crimes while visiting Daly City.

Property Crime Rate

Property crimes may include those actions that harm tourists’ belongings, such as vehicle thefts, larceny thefts, burglary, or pocket pickings. These are more common than violent crimes. According to the reported data:

  • Property crime rate in Daly City: 20 per 1000 residents
  • National Average property crime rate: 19.53 per 1000 residents

The property crime rate in Daly City is slightly higher than in other parts of the country. These common crimes can happen to anybody, therefore, travelers are advised not to carry too much cash, and if carrying, check it regularly to avoid the chances of losing it.

Safest Areas in Daly City to consider

Not all areas experience crimes in Daly City; certain areas and neighbourhoods are considered safer than others. These might be a great option for travelers to stay safe in this city.

  1. Areas Closer to San Francisco 

Generally, areas that are closer to San Francisco, especially the north side, have lower crime rates. Referring to the safety of travelers, as there are resources readily available, including police assistance.

  1. Westlake

This area is known for being the most expensive and safest neighborhood in Daly City. A bit pricier, but can be considered as it has a negligible crime rate.

  1. Serramonte

More affordable than Westlake, this offers a safe and relatively desirable area in Daly City. It is a good option for travelers, providing both affordability and safety.

Areas with Higher crime rates 

Map highlighting urban areas with higher crime rate hotspots

Although Daly City has a significantly lower crime rate, some areas recurrently experience crimes, and travelers are recommended to avoid these areas, particularly at nighttime. 

  • Neighborhoods south of the county line:

Typically not a criminal area, but in some parts of the south, people can be a victims of crime. Therefore, it’s best to remain cautious and avoid this.

  • Hillside and Castle Street

This area has developed, but it had a very high crime rate in the past. And there is still have potential risk of crimes for tourists. Not life-threatening crimes, but property-related.

  • Areas near BART stations:

While Bart is generally safe, it is important to be aware of its surroundings, especially at night, to ensure safety in an unknown city.

Safety Measures and Community Initiatives at Daly City

The Police department of Daly City plays an important role in ensuring safety and building trust in travelers. They have taken significant steps to keep them safe and sound.

  1. Weekly crime newsletters are published to keep the public updated about their city and aware them.
  2. Community outreach programs are held to build trust between the police and locals. This helps in removing hesitation of people in reporting any crime. 
  3. Neighbourhood watch groups encourages locals to stay alert and report any suspicious activity.

These initiative have positively helped in reducing crimes and improve the sense of security among community members. Further, it helps tourist to be feel safe even in any new city.

Tips to Stay Safe in Daly City

While Daly City is largely safe, it is essential take precautions to avoid damage and remain safe especially in an urban setting. First time travelers must follow some tips to ensure security.

  • Always stay in reputed and recognized hotel, and property should be well-lit and not spooky ones.
  • You should keep wallet secure, bags zipped, and avoid displaying valuable items. Cards, cash and passports can be kept under some clothes for extra safety.
  • Trust your instincts, if you feel uncomfortable in any area, leave immediately.
  • Pay attention to surrounding, any doubt on someone or suspicious activity should be quickly reported to the police.
  • Avoid visiting poorly lit streets and dark shady areas, especially at night for solo traveling women.
  • Learn about necessary information like nearby police stations, public transportations, hospitals for emergency.
  • Use luggage lockers to keep bags safe in the hotels and take all your things before check-out.
  • If traveling by cabs, book only from authorised platforms like Uber. Don’t go for unlicensed cabs to save some money.
  • Keep your family and loved ones updated about your location, if traveling alone.

Final Verdict- Is Daly City safe?

Daly City is considered to be safe for traveling due to it’s overall reduced crime rate but travelers are required to stay alert about their surroundings as the property crime rate is certainly high. So it’s important keep in mind before planning a journey to Daly City. Apart from these, Daly City serves as a great destination option for tourist and by following necessary tips, it can turn out to be an efficient and fun trip.

Frequently Asked Question(FAQs)
Is Daly City safe to travel?

Yes, it’s safe to visit Daly City. However, travelers are required to follow some tips to ensure extra safety.

What is the crime rate in Daly City?

The crime rate in Daly is certainly low from other cities, it is 28.72 per 1000 residents.

Which places are safest to reside in Daly City?

To stay safe, travelers can choose properties in areas close to San Francisco, Serramonte, and Westlake.

Is it advisable to take cabs in Daly City?

Yes, you can travel through cabs but ensure that it has been booked through trusted platforms, be attentive and observe the surroundings.

What should I avoid for safety in Daly City?

You must avoid roaming in lonely areas at night, don’t display precious items, taking sharing or unlicensed cabs, etc.

How to travel in Daly City?

There are multiple options to travel in the city including, taxis, buses, metros and more.