Safest and The Most Dangerous Places in Davis ,CA : 2026 Guide
Smart living starts with safety
Every year, thousands of international students and young professionals come to Davis, California, which is in Yolo County and is home to the University of California, Davis. The UC Davis campus and UC Davis Health stadium are two of citys most notable landmarks. The city is diverse, and it is well known for its intellectual and student-friendly atmosphere. As per the recent census, it has a population of 66,850, and around 35000 students live in the city or nearby accommodations and student housing.
When people talk about Davis, the topic is never the same. One individual will discuss bike-friendly routes, cafes, public transportations and student events vehicle another may cite thefts, bicycle robberies, or property offenses. Students planning to attend the University of California or adjacent colleges are frequently concerned about the safest and most dangerous areas in Davis, California. This town appears to have constructed specifically for students, yet, as with any other place, some areas are among the safest, while others require additional caution. This blog provides all of the required information on the safest and the most dangerous places of Davis CA, as well as those where you should be extremely careful.
Understanding the Crime in Davis, California
The total crime rate in Davis, California, is approximately 28-30 incidents per 1000 residents in year 2025. It is higher than average due to the property crime rate, which is around 22-24 incidents per 1000 residents as per local crime reports. Crimes like burglary, theft, and vehicle-related crimes are most common. While bikes are stolen from unlocked racks or items are taken from unattended vehicles, they occur frequently in student -dense and residential areas. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the safest and the most dangerous places and the crime rate in Davis, CA
| Crime Category | Type of Crime | Common Places / Simple Understanding (Davis, CA) |
|---|---|---|
| Violent Crime | Murder & Manslaughter | Very rare; mostly personal or domestic cases; usually residential areas |
| Violent Crime | Assault | Occurs near parties, student housing, dorms, or private residences; often involves acquaintances |
| Violent Crime | Robbery | Bike paths, parking areas, late-night streets; force or threat used, but uncommon |
| Violent Crime | Aggravated Assault | Disputes near bars, parties, or domestic settings |
| Property Crime | Burglary | Student apartments, shared housing, dorm-adjacent areas; doors or windows left unlocked |
| Property Crime | Larceny / Theft | Very common: bike theft, package theft, shoplifting |
| Property Crime | Motor Vehicle Theft | Apartment parking lots, street parking, and older vehicles without alarms |
| Property Crime | Arson | Rare; vehicles or unattended properties |
| Other Crimes | Drug-Related Offenses | Campus areas, house parties, residential neighborhoods; mostly possession cases |
| Other Crimes | Vandalism | Parks, bike racks, bus stops, schools, and student housing, often overnight |
Safest Places in Davis, CA
Many people consider Davis to be one of the Californias safer college towns. well planned residential districts with high levels of community involvement, limited population turnover, and little commercial activity are usually the safest places in Davis CA . these neighborhoods are perfect for people seeking a safe atmosphere to live in.
1. Mace Ranch :
Safety Index: A+ exceptionally safe
Population: 2881 residents
Nearest University: University of California, 2~3 miles
Mace Ranch is considered one of the safest places in Davis, CA, with an A+ safety grade and extremely low crime levels. It is a well planned sburban area. It is at a distance from dense student housing and commercial zones, which makes it safer.
2. Slide Hill Park
Safety Index: A
Population: 1.248 residents
Nearest University: University of California, 3~4 miles
Slide Hill Park is family oriented neighborhood with strong safety ratings. It has low crime rates and va ery strong community presence. Being a residential place, limited traffic helps in maintaining a safe and peaceful environment for residents.
3. El Macero
Safety index: A
Population ; 3600
Nearest university : is 4~5 miles UC Davis,California State University
El Macero is a low-crime community suburb that has private security features and a strong community environment. The area benefits from private security features, very large properties, and a very low-density population; these factors make it one of the safest places in Davis, CA.
4.Village Homes
Safety Index: A
Population: 924 residents
Nearest University:1 mile UC davis
Village Homes is a historically planned community and has a strong safety and sustainability focus. It has low crime and have active neighborhood. With A safety index, it is one of the safest places in Davis, CA.
Most Dangerous Places in Davis, CA
Although Davis is generally regarded as a safe and student-friendly city, certain neighborhoods have greater crime rates than others, primarily as a result of increased daily activity and property crimes. Thefts and vandalism are common in busy areas near commercial places as well as student housing. Students and locals should be extra careful at these places.
1.Rancho Yolo:
Population: 584 residents
Crime Index: crime score B -
Nearest University: University of California, 2-3 miles
Rancho Yolo has minor violent crimes like thefts and assaults. It has a B- safety score and urban issues like traffic. It also has non-violent crime, it has seen substance abuse, and so it is one of the dangerous places in Davis, CA.
2.Davis Manor:
Population: 681 residents
Crime Index: B-
Nearest University: University of California,1-2 miles.
Davis Manor shows a very high total crime than davis average. Due to its proximity to major roads and residential streets, it contributes to theft and minor assaults. It has property crime and isolated violent incidents.
3. Interland / University Research Park :
Population: 930 residents
Crime Index: C+
Nearest University: University of California,1-2 miles.
The crime scores suggest that Interland has frequent thefts and property Incidents. Because of the presence of commercial places, property-related incidents include vandalism and theft.
4.Old East Davis:
Population: 792 residents
Crime Index: B-
Nearest University: University of California,1-2 miles.
Old East Davis has average crime levels with occasional assaults and theft incidents. It is safer than the above but has more activity of minor incidents. It has proximity to busier routes, which contributes to its moderate crime profile.
| Safety Focus | Safety Tip |
|---|---|
| Choosing Housing | Choose accommodation near UC Davis or well-lit student areas, and research the safest and most dangerous places in Davis, CA, before booking. |
| Night Travel | Avoid walking or biking alone late at night, especially on isolated bike paths or less busy residential streets in Davis, CA. |
| Protecting Valuables | Secure bikes, laptops, and packages carefully, as theft is more common outside the safest places in Davis, CA. |
| Public Transport Awareness | Stay alert at bus stops and transit routes during late hours, particularly in low-traffic areas of Davis, CA. |
| Emergency Preparedness | Save UC Davis Police and local emergency contacts, and stay informed when moving between the safest and most dangerous places in Davis, CA. |
Best and Safest student accommodations in Davis CA :
Anyone studying in Davis California, should prioritize finding safe and comfortable student accommodations in Davis CA, and amber makes it simple for students to browse the city's verified, secure, and well-managed student housing options. Davis offers a range of student apartments equipped with essential safety features such as controlled access, security systems, on-site management, and locations in student-friendly neighborhoods. These carefully selected accommodations ensure students can live safely and comfortably close to the University of California, public transportation, bike routes, and everyday amenities. Here are some top safest places in Davis CA for students :
The Spoke - near UC Davis on J St is ideal for students due to its close proximity to campus and transit, offering a student-oriented community with easy access to both study and social life, with pricing starting from $660/month.
Sol at West Village - in West Village provides a strong student environment with dedicated social spaces and study areas, creating a supportive and engaging community atmosphere, with pricing starting from $780/month.
Oakshade Commons - Oakshade Commons on Cowell Blvd suits students seeking quieter, academic-focused living near UC Davis and transit connections, making it ideal for focused study, with pricing starting from $1012/month.
Academy Lane Apartments - in central Davis on F St are perfect for daily student routines, offering very close access to campus and convenient commutes, with pricing starting from $1537/month.
Ellington Apartments on El Cemonte Ave in East Davis offer spacious living options near shopping and transit, making them well-suited for upperclassmen or graduate students, with pricing starting from $1995/month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Davis a safe Place to live?
Yes, Davis is considered safe compared to the other cities in California because most crimes are non-violent and very minor.
What are the safest neighborhoods in Davis, CA?
Some of the safest neighborhoods include North Davis, West Davis, South Davis, and Mace Ranch, known for their residential and safe environment. They also have a strong community presence.
Is Davis safe for students?
Yes, Davis is a student-friendly city and is safe for students, particularly in areas near the UC Davis campus, and nearby residential areas are safer.
Which city has the highest crime rate in Davis CA?
Davis is a single city; however, Downtown Davis and areas close to campus tend to report higher crime numbers due to the dense student population
What is Davis, CA, famous for?
Davis is famous for being a vibrant, bike-friendly town. It has an award-winning farmers market, a strong emphasis on parks and open space, and a lively Downtown with unique shops and restaurants.