What Are the Safest San Jose Neighborhoods for Renters in 2025? (Crime & Rent Data)

San Jose offers renters many safe neighborhoods in 2025, including Almaden Valley, Willow Glen, and East San Jose. Safety is a big consideration for many renters, especially in San Jose where the overall Crime Grade is a C+ and is less safe than 46% of all other U.S. cities.

From quiet suburbs to family-friendly hubs with a focus on community, these are the safest places to rent in San Jose, according to the latest July 2025 crime rate data, to help you make the right choice to fit your needs.

Is San Jose Safe for Renters?

San Jose has seen a decrease in violent and nonviolent property crime year over year (January to July 2025 vs. January to July 2024). Violent crime in San Jose decreased by 13.1%, while nonviolent crime dropped by 8.5%, according to the San Jose Police Department’s NIBRS data. The San Jose Police Department (SJPD) works to target crime reduction through programs such as Police and Community Partnerships, which connect a crime prevention specialist with specific neighborhoods.

Although there has been a decrease in crime this year, the city still has a C+ crime grade, ranking in the 54th percentile for safety, which makes it less safe than 46% of other cities. Keep in mind that citywide statistics may be misleading, as safety varies widely by neighborhood. That’s why we recommend looking at neighborhood-level data to find the safest place to live in San Jose.

Crime Grade data shows that the current San Jose crime rate is 22.82 per 1,000 residents in a standard year. Your safety really depends on where you’re located in the city, though, as data shows that neighborhoods in the northwest have a 1 in 34 chance of being a victim, whereas it's 1 in 57 in the east.

San Jose Crime Trends in 2025

• Violent crime is down 13.1% year over year in January to June 2025, compared to the same time in 2024, with 1,073 fewer incidents.
• Nonviolent (property) crime has fallen by 8.5% year over year, with a decrease of 1,596 incidents.
• The cost of crime per resident in San Jose is around $325 per year, $139 less than the national average.

Violent vs. Property Crime Breakdown

Theft accounts for the majority of the overall crime rate in the area,with over 10.05 incidents per 1,000 people.

Data from CrimeGrade.org.

How Safer Neighborhoods Compare to Citywide Averages

San Jose renters need only look at a 10- to 20-minute commute outside the city center to find communities with higher safety scores and affordable housing. The neighborhoods on our list have both lower violent and property crime statistics that outperform citywide averages.

For context, San Jose as a whole sees 3.711 violent crimes and 16.09 property crimes per 1,000 residents. By contrast, the neighborhood of Almaden Valley reports just 2.234 violent crimes and 9.533 property crimes per 1,000, well below the city average.

How We Identified San Jose’s Safest Neighborhoods

To build this list, we focused on neighborhoods that combine strong safety data with affordability and a high level of livability. This method ensures that each recommendation strikes a balance between security, quality of life, and affordability.

Our data focuses on violent and nonviolent property crime per 1,000 residents, comparing them with citywide and national averages. Overall, we prioritized neighborhood safety with low crime per capita, not just the raw incident totals. We also used internal Apartment List inventory and pricing data and cross-referenced it with additional neighborhood data from Rent.com to give you the most accurate snapshot of rents across San Jose as of July 2025.

Finally, we considered features such as walkability, school ratings, and amenities, adding in other factors like quality-of-life indicators. Whether you’re looking for safe, family-friendly neighborhoods with short commute times or a central spot downtown, our list will help you find the safest places to live in San Jose, supported by data.

Data Sources and Time Frames

We built our rankings using multiple data sources to cover the recent crime and rent trends in San Jose:

• San Jose Police Dashboards: FBI Uniform Crime Report Summary (Finalized 2023 data) and FBI NIBRS (2023-current)
• CrimeGrade.org
• Apartment List rent estimates (Q2 2025)

Ranking Factors (Crime Rate, Rent, Amenities, Commute)

Each neighborhood was evaluated with the following factor weightings.

Factor Weights

• Crime Rate (50%): Based on combined violent and property crime per 1,000 residents; lower rates score higher.
• Rent Affordability (20%): Average one‑bedroom rent compared to city average ($2,934); neighborhoods below the average score are better.
• Amenities (20%): Composite metric including:
  • Parks per square mile (scored 0-10)
  • Walk score (0-100)
  • Grocery stores within one mile (0-5)
• Commute (10%): Average peak-hour drive time to Downtown San Jose; shorter commutes yield higher scores.

Each neighborhood on this list received the best scores compared to the overall neighborhoods in San Jose.

Crime-to-Rent Ratio Explained

The crime-to-rent ratio is the number of reported crimes per $1,000 of average annual rent. Lower ratios mean you get better safety for each dollar spent on housing.

For example, if a neighborhood reports 200 crimes per year, and the average rent is $3,000 per month ($36,000 per year), the crime-to-rent ratio would be 5.56 crimes per $1,000 of annual rent. Let’s see the math written out.

*200 crimes ÷ ($36,000 ÷ $1,000) = 200 ÷ 36 = 5.56 crimes per $1,000 of rent*

The crime-to-rent ratio is particularly helpful for cost-conscious renters. Instead of just looking at the lowest rent prices or safest neighborhoods, the ratio allows you to examine both factors together, highlighting neighborhoods that offer the best of both worlds in terms of safety and cost.

8 Safest San Jose Neighborhoods for Renters

If you’re looking for a safe place to live in San Jose, these eight neighborhoods offer residents the best mix of affordable pricing and low crime rates, backed by data from the San Jose Police Department, FBI crime statistics, and rent data.

Almaden Valley

Suburban calm, strong safety profile

• Violent crime: 2.234/1,000
• Property crime: 9.533/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,400
• Crime-to-rent ratio: 0.409

Almaden Valley offers some of the best safety-to-cost value in all of San Jose. With a combined crime rate of just 11.767 per 1,000 residents and a lower-than-average rent, it posts a crime-to-rent ratio of just 0.409, among the best in the city.

Known for its quiet streets and proximity to outdoor space, Almaden Valley offers a slower pace without feeling isolated. The neighborhood is situated near Almaden Quicksilver County Park and other hiking areas, offering plenty of open space and family-friendly parks. Schools are highly rated, traffic is light, and residents report a strong sense of community. For renters looking for peace of mind and room to breathe, it’s one of the safest and most livable spots in the city.

Willow Glen

Charming, central

• Violent crime: 5.192/1,000
• Property crime: 15.570/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,525
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 0.685

Willow Glen is known for its quiet streets, boutique shopping, and a walkable “downtown” feel, but renters should be aware that its crime-to-rent ratio is slightly higher at 0.685. That reflects a combined crime rate of 20.762 per 1,000 residents.

Still, the neighborhood is beloved for its small-town-in-a-city vibe and community events, such as Dancin’ on the Avenue. While property crime is moderately higher here, visible community engagement and well-patrolled streets help maintain a sense of safety. It’s a lifestyle-focused choice, best for renters who want charm and culture close to central San Jose.

Evergreen

Greenbelt living, strongest ROI

• Violent crime: 2.351/1,000
• Property crime: 9.676/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,622
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 0.395

With a crime-to-rent ratio of 0.395, Evergreen stands out as the best value for safety-conscious renters. The total crime rate is a low 12.027 per 1,000 residents, making it a top choice for those seeking a calmer pace of life in San Jose.

This eastern neighborhood is prized for its rolling hills, proximity to parks like Cunningham Lake, and solid schools. Rent is below the city average, making Evergreen an excellent balance of affordability, tranquility, and safety for families and professionals alike.

Berryessa

Quiet convenience, low-crime edge

• Violent crime: 2.334/1,000
• Property crime: 9.775/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,503
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 0.403

Berryessa is another standout when it comes to peace of mind at a reasonable price. With a combined crime rate of just 12.109 and a competitive rent of $2,503, renters here enjoy a crime-to-rent ratio of 0.403—one of the best in the city.

Its family-oriented layout, access to Alum Rock Park, and upcoming BART expansion have made Berryessa an increasingly attractive option. It’s ideal for those seeking low crime without straying too far from the city’s core.

Blossom Valley

Balanced and accessible

• Violent crime: 3.298/1,000
• Property crime: 13.120/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,867
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 0.477

Blossom Valley strikes a solid balance between urban access and residential calm. With a total crime rate of 16.418 per 1,000 residents and a rent just under the city average, the crime-to-rent ratio sits at a respectable 0.477.

This neighborhood appeals to commuters and nature-lovers alike, with nearby Santa Teresa County Park, Westfield Oakridge mall, and easy access to major highways. It’s not the absolute lowest-crime spot, but the trade-offs make it a well-rounded choice for renters in 2025.

East San Jose

Affordability with eyes open

• Violent crime: 4.068/1,000
• Property crime: 14.610/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,355
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 0.661

East San Jose offers lower rents than many parts of the city, while still maintaining a moderate crime rate. However, renters should be aware of the higher density and more urban feel. With a crime-to-rent ratio of 0.661, safety varies block by block.

Local initiatives and community groups are actively involved in crime prevention, and the area benefits from its cultural richness and family-owned businesses. Renters looking for budget-friendly homes with easy freeway access and strong community ties will appreciate East San Jose, especially when selecting carefully within the neighborhood.

Garden Alameda

Urban access, moderate risk

• Violent crime: 5.060/1,000
• Property crime: 16.120/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,122
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 0.565

Just west of Downtown, Garden Alameda delivers a central location and urban convenience, but with a slightly higher crime rate than some suburban options. With 21.180 crimes per 1,000 residents and an average rent above the citywide average, the crime-to-rent ratio is 0.565.

Residents enjoy access to the SAP Center, Whole Foods, and the Diridon Station transit hub. It’s a good fit for renters seeking a vibrant lifestyle with shorter commutes, as long as they prioritize secure buildings and active neighborhood watch participation.

Downtown San Jose

High energy, higher crime

• Violent crime: 8.031/1,000
• Property crime: 23.330/1,000
• Average one-bedroom rent: $5,102
• Crime‑to‑rent ratio: 0.512

Downtown San Jose is the city’s entertainment and business hub, and that comes with both opportunity and risk. With the highest crime rate on this list (31.361 per 1,000), it might surprise renters that the crime-to-rent ratio remains relatively moderate at 0.512, thanks to sky-high rent costs.

This area offers walkability, nightlife, major employers, and access to light rail. But for renters prioritizing quiet streets and family-style living, other neighborhoods may offer more peace of mind. Downtown is best for those willing to trade a bit of safety for convenience and cultural access.

Neighborhood Comparison: Crime, Rent, Commute at a Glance

Commute Times to Major San Jose Job Hubs (2025)

To give renters a better idea of daily travel, we calculated average drive times during peak hours from each ranked neighborhood to three major employment centers:

• Downtown San Jose (tech/startup headquarters, San Pedro Square Market, government buildings)
• North San Jose/Cisco Campus (tech campuses, including Cisco, PayPal, and Samsung)
• Cupertino/Apple Park (Apple headquarters and nearby Silicon Valley employers)

All commute times reflect typical weekday traffic using the fastest route via car. Public transit times are not included due to current limitations in direct connectivity from some neighborhoods.

From Almaden Valley

• Downtown San Jose (via Almaden Road and CA-87 N): 30 minutes
• North San Jose (via Almaden Road and CA-87 N): 30 minutes
• Cupertino (via Almaden Road): 40 minutes

From Willow Glen

• Downtown San Jose (via Meridian Avenue): 10 minutes
• North San Jose (via CA-87 N): 15 minutes
• Cupertino (via I-280 N): 20 minutes

From Evergreen

• Downtown San Jose (via US-101 N): 20 minutes
• North San Jose (via US-101 N): 25 minutes
• Cupertino (via I-280 N): 30 minutes

From Berryessa

• Downtown San Jose (via I-680 S and I-280 N): 15 minutes
• North San Jose (via Montague Expressway): 15 minutes
• Cupertino (via I-280 N): 25 minutes

From Blossom Valley

• Downtown San Jose (via Almaden Expressway): 15 minutes
• North San Jose (via Almaden Expressway and CA-87 N): 20 minutes
• Cupertino (via I-280 N): 25 minutes

From East San Jose

• Downtown San Jose (via Story Rd): 15 minutes
• North San Jose (via US-101 N): 20 minutes
• Cupertino (via I-280 N): 25 minutes

From Garden Alameda

• Downtown San Jose (via The Alameda): 10 minutes
• North San Jose (via CA-97 N): 15 minutes
• Cupertino (via I-280 N): 15 minutes

From Downtown San Jose

• Downtown San Jose: 0 minutes
• North San Jose (via CA-87 N): 15 minutes
• Cupertino (via I-280 N): 20 minutes

Choosing the Right Safe Neighborhood for Your Lifestyle

When choosing the “right” neighborhood, safety means different things to different people, and it’s not a one-size-fits-all priority. Some renters want quiet, suburban streets, while others look for nightlife and walkability. Here’s how to balance safety with your daily routine, without sacrificing convenience or cost.

Transit-Friendly Yet Safe Areas If You Don’t Own a Car

While it can be difficult to go car-free in California, there are a few neighborhoods that offer decent safety scores alongside reliable public transit access and bikeability.

Garden Alameda

• Walk score: 83
• Bike score: 86
• Key routes: Valley Transit Authority (VTA) routes 64A and 25, light rail Green Line, and close to Diridon Caltrain Station

Downtown San Jose

• Walk score: 79
• Bike score: 91
• Key routes: VTA right rail Blue, Green, and Orange lines, Route 22, Rapid 522, Diridon Caltrain Station

Willow Glen

• Walk score: 58
• Bike score: 70
• Key routes: VTA routes 64A and 25, and nearby Tamien Caltrain Station

Downtown San Jose and Garden Alameda also offer access to e-scooters (Lime, VEO), bike shares (Bay Wheels) and nearby Caltrain and light rail stations. Willow Glen is quieter and less connected by micromobility, but still offers solid bus routes and is bike-friendly for local errands and short commutes.

Up-and-Coming Affordable Pockets to Watch

San Jose already has a high cost of living. You don’t need to splurge and live in luxury areas to feel safe in the city. Several rising stars have excellent safety ratings while offering affordable rent prices.

• Berryessa: A commuter-friendly neighborhood with BART access and new housing near the transit village; recent crime rates remain low and stable.
• Evergreen: A suburban-feeling area with newer single-family homes and condos, plus steady drops in property crime over the past three years.
• Blossom Valley: Once overlooked, this area now offers solid safety, midrange rents, and expanding retail near Westfield Oakridge Mall and transit hubs.

Key indicators include:

• New mixed-use and residential construction.
• Three-year crime decline based on SJPD data.
• Expanding transit access and community investment.

Check Block-Level Safety Before Signing a Lease

Not all streets are safe. Even in relatively safe neighborhoods, the exact block can make a difference. Here’s how to scope out a location before committing:

1. Find the address on the SJPD CrimeMapping tool to review recent incidents.
2. Check community safety apps like Citizen, Nextdoor, or Neighbors by Ring for real-time reports.
3. Visit the area at night to get a feel for the lighting, foot traffic, and overall vibe.
4. Ask the landlord about security features; many rentals now include or support video doorbells, smart locks, or motion-sensor lighting.

Arming yourself with knowledge can help you make informed choices and find the safest neighborhood.

Apartment List Finds Rentals Faster

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Frequently Asked Questions About San Jose’s Safest Neighborhoods

Which safe San Jose neighborhoods offer the lowest average rent?

Almaden Valley and East San Jose stand out for affordability and safety, with one-bedroom rents under $2,450 and crime rates below the city average.

Are there safe areas near Downtown San Jose?

Yes, both Garden Alameda and Willow Glen are located close to Downtown and maintain solid safety scores. Garden Alameda is walkable and bikeable, while Willow Glen offers a quieter, family-friendly vibe.

How current is the crime data in this guide?

All data reflects reports from January 2024 through June 2025, sourced from SJPD, CrimeGrade.org, and the FBI NIBRS system.

What online tools help monitor neighborhood safety?

Try the SJPD CrimeMapping Tool, the Citizen app, Nextdoor, and Neighbors by Ring. These platforms let renters track block-by-block activity before touring or signing a lease.

Is neighborhood safety different during the day vs. night?

It can be. Some areas, like Downtown, see higher property crime at night, while suburban zones like Evergreen and Berryessa stay consistently low-risk throughout the 24 hours.