11 Safest Towns In California For Senior Living
California’s sun-soaked landscapes and vibrant communities are not just for surfers and tech moguls. They also offer a perfect setting for retirees seeking a fulfilling retirement experience. While some of the state’s major cities struggle with safety and affordability, retirees who look beyond the bustling metropolises and explore small coastal, countryside, and nature-centric communities will discover a balance of everything that makes California one of the best places to call home. From the historic charm of Danville to the agricultural beauty of Ojai, read on to plan your ideal retirement in California.
Orinda
Orinda is one of the best small towns for retirees near San Francisco, conveniently located just 20 miles away and ranked by Forbes Magazine as one of America’s friendliest towns. Seniors make up 23.6% of its 19,500 residents, fostering a close-knit community with dedicated programs focused on their well-being. The city’s Parks and Recreation Department offers various initiatives, including sports and transportation assistance, to support an active and independent lifestyle. Ranked as one of the safest cities, Orinda recorded only 17 annual violent crimes according to FBI reports in 2019, far below similar-sized towns like Oroville, which saw over 120.
Reliable healthcare is easily accessible with notable providers like Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital in San Francisco nearby. Surrounded by parks and outdoor greenery, the town offers excellent recreational opportunities at destinations such as Orinda Community Park and Orinda Oaks Park, where seniors can enjoy daily exercise among scenic natural vistas.
Danville
Danville blends a safe, welcoming atmosphere with an upscale, luxurious lifestyle. Its convenient location near major cities such as San Francisco, 30 miles away, and Oakland makes it a prime retirement destination for those seeking easy city access without heavy traffic and higher crime rates. Despite being an upscale locale of luxury homes and wealthy residents, Danville offers a wide range of senior homes and assisted living options, with notable facilities including Sunrise of Danville, Brookdale Danville, and Blackhawk Senior Residential.
The town is also home to a thriving central district, with Hartz Ave offering an eclectic range of dining options and top-rated local businesses such as The Peasant & The Pear Restaurant, Blue Line Pizza, and Hazy Barbecue. According to 2019 crime reports, the town recorded a low crime rate of 23 violent crimes and seven robbery incidents.
Saratoga
Saratoga stands out as a premier retirement destination, offering a unique blend of social charm and modern convenience. Nestled in the foothills of Silicon Valley, it provides a peaceful retreat with easy access to both San Jose and San Francisco. Seniors benefit from a wide range of activities through local clubs and wellness centers. At the same time, the Saratoga Area Senior Coordinating Council (SASCC) supports an engaging lifestyle with essential services like transportation and social programs. Access to quality healthcare is nearby, with facilities such as Carbon Health Urgent Care and Santa Clara Valley Medical Center close at hand.
With just 16 violent crimes reported, Saratoga is also known for its safety and exclusivity. Lush central parks create the perfect setting for daily walks, and popular destinations like Hakone Gardens and the Montalvo Arts Center offer cultural and scenic experiences. The town’s historic downtown adds to its charm, home to beloved local restaurants like Bella Saratoga’s Italian Restaurant and The Hero Ranch Kitchen.
St. Helena
St. Helena offers the perfect blend of security and comfort making it an ideal retirement town. Located in Napa Valley, it boasts world-class healthcare facilities, a vibrant senior community that makes up 29.8% of the population, and a strong local economy supported by diverse small businesses. According to FBI crime reports, the town saw only 12 violent crimes in 2019 across a population of 6,195, making it one of the safest small towns in California. Residents enjoy scenic nature walks at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, located five miles north, the Jacob Meily Park walking path near the town’s centre, and engaging events at the Rianda House. Dining options like The Goose & Gander and Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch enhance the town’s welcoming charm, while senior living options such as the elegant Rose Haven provide comfort and care.
Moorpark
Moorpark is one of California’s safest small towns, making it an excellent choice for retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle with the convenience of nearby city access. With a population of around 36,000, it offers a laid-back small-town atmosphere just 50 miles from Los Angeles. The town features abundant green spaces, fresh produce from local farms, and vibrant events like the Springtime Easter Festival at Underwood Family Farms, which offers special discounts for seniors and veterans.
Surrounded by natural beauty, Moorpark makes it easy for seniors to stay active and healthy with recreational spots like the Moorpark Country Club and the centrally located Arroyo Vista Community Park, perfect for daily walks and outdoor relaxation. According to FBI crime reports, Moorpark recorded just 26 violent incidents in 2019, reinforcing its reputation as a safe and welcoming place to retire. Seniors relocating to Moorpark can stay active and engaged at the Moorpark Active Adult Center, which offers everything from yoga and strength training to gardening classes and poker sessions, providing great opportunities to meet new people.
Windsor
Windsor strikes a perfect balance between countryside tranquility and urban accessibility, nestled in Sonoma County’s picturesque wine country. With lush parks like Sutton Park, Old Vineyard Park, and Lakewood Meadows Park, it offers inviting spaces for outdoor activities and daily walks. Notable features for a healthy lifestyle include the Windsor Certified Farmers Market, which sells organic local foods, and events like the Easter Sunday Brunch on the Green and the annual Zucchini Festival every August.
In terms of safety, Windsor recorded just 58 violent crimes in 2019, a significant drop compared to nearby Santa Rosa, which recorded 857 violent crimes in the same year. Even when considering the difference in population, Windsor is much safer for people to settle down. Seniors can stay active at the Windsor Senior Recreation Center, which offers classes such as Zumba and yoga to promote well-being. Additionally, top-tier healthcare is just minutes away in Santa Rosa, home to Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital.
Poway
More of a small city than a town, Poway is nicknamed “The City in the Country.” Located near San Diego, the area is known for its safety and natural beauty. Crime in Poway is relatively low, with only 51 violent crime incidents recorded in 2019 for its population of 48,000. Balancing a rural atmosphere with all the major amenities of a big city, Poway is an ideal retirement destination for seniors seeking an active lifestyle and access to outdoor recreation. Local favorites for peaceful outings or daily exercise include Poway Community Park and the centrally located Hilleary Park. Moreover, the city offers reliable access to medical facilities such as Palomar Medical Center and Palomar Health Medical Group.
It also supports seniors through wellness programs like Friends of Poway Seniors, which provides donations and living essentials, and events and group activities organized by city officials at the Mickey Cafagna Community Center. There is no shortage of assisted living options in Poway, with highly rated facilities like Pacifica Senior Living Poway and independent retirement communities such as Los Arcos Senior Housing.
Laguna Woods
Laguna Woods is one of the safest small towns to retire in California, designed as a master-planned senior community where 80% of the 17,500 residents are over the age of 65. According to 2019 FBI reports, the town recorded only seven violent crime incidents, making it one of the safest small towns in the state. The area is dotted with healthcare facilities such as College Hospital Laguna Woods, MemorialCare Medical Group, and Laguna Health and Wellness Center, which specializes in senior wellness through various therapies, physical therapy, and more.
Residents enjoy an active lifestyle through amenities like the Laguna Woods Golf Club and daily walks along the central Veeh Ranch Park. Moreover, home prices in Laguna Woods are relatively affordable, with the average home valued at around $460,000 compared to the state average of $790,000.
Ojai
Ojai is a peaceful, nature-rich town that attracts retirees seeking a slower pace and outdoor living. Situated in Ventura County, it blends artistic energy with a laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular escape from urban hustle. Wellness is a core part of life here, with top-rated spas like Bamboo Creek Spa and Ojai Garden Spa at the Lavender Inn, as well as a variety of meditation retreats and fitness centers catering to seniors. The town also encourages an active lifestyle through programs at HELP of Ojai, where retirees can explore Tai Chi, yoga, meditation, and creative pursuits like writing workshops. Safety in Ojai is supported by its affluent residential base and low crime rates, with only eight violent crime incidents recorded according to 2019 FBI data.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea, commonly known as Carmel, is a picturesque coastal city with a thriving business community. Widely considered one of the safest retirement destinations in California, Carmel’s appeal is rooted in its popularity as a tourist hub and its low crime rates. In 2019, the town recorded just 11 violent incidents, compared to nearby Marina, which saw 43 violent crimes. Most reported incidents in Carmel are property-related, with the southeast part of town considered the safest.
Thanks to the town's scenic surroundings and thriving small business district, there is no shortage of things to do and places to see. Starting from Ocean Ave, the town's Main Street, residents can explore local businesses like Pangaea on Ocean Ave, which offers an Asian fine dining experience, or the Albatross Ridge Tasting Room and other wineries to sample local delicacies. For active seniors, relaxing natural backdrops provide daily routes for exercise, such as at Mission Trail Park's Nature Preserve.
Imperial
Imperial consistently ranks among the safest small towns in the state. According to 2019 FBI reports, the town recorded only five violent crime incidents and 56 property crimes. The town’s strong spirit is reinforced by initiatives like community-oriented policing, police cadet deployment, and Emergency Preparedness Programs. Events also bring locals closer together and allow newcomers to feel at home, with events like the Signature Event Series hosting celebrations throughout the year, including the traditional Fiesta de los Muertos, the Parade of Lights, and more.
The town's small-town atmosphere fosters close-knit relationships, and its proximity to El Centro provides access to essential services without urban crime. With an average home price of $415,000, Imperial is significantly more affordable than the California state average, making it an attractive option for retirees. Additionally, its location near the Mexican border adds cultural appeal.
Final Thoughts
From the tranquil suburbs of Orinda to the senior-oriented structure of Laguna Woods, California’s safest towns prove retirees don’t have to choose between lifestyle and security. With low crime rates, dependable healthcare, and vibrant senior networks, these communities offer retirees a chance to enjoy coastal views, wine-country strolls, and rich cultural experiences. The Golden State truly has something for every retiree seeking a relaxing and secure lifestyle.
