| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Atherton/100k people | California/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 93 | n/a (estimate) | 1,386 | 2,564 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 14.9 | 36.6 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 1 | n/a | 14.9 | 119.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 5 | n/a | 74.5 | 325.8 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 7 | n/a (estimate) | 104 | 486 | 359 |
| Burglary | 29 | n/a | 432.1 | 305.8 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 53 | n/a | 789.7 | 1,345.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 4 | n/a | 59.6 | 427.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 86 | n/a (estimate) | 1,281 | 2,078 | 1,760 |

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Atherton is 34.6% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Atherton, there were 7 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 104 per 100,000 individuals, 71% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 86 property crimes, amounting to 1281 per 100,000 residents, 27.2% lower than the U.S. average.
Atherton has one of the lowest violent crime rates of all cities in the United States. With a rate of 104 violent crimes per 100,000 people, Atherton ranks among the safest cities in the United States making it an attractive choice for those seeking a new place to call home.
Atherton showcased a dedication to violent crime safety in its latest reported crime year by achieving a murder rate of 0. This accomplishment could indicate that it is a safe place for residents, but also provides a shining example to other urban areas endeavoring to create safer communities.
Is Atherton a safe place to live? While the answer may not be straightforward due to variations in safety levels across the city, gaining an understanding of the overall crime rate can prove to be advantageous. In general, Atherton has a crime rate that is lower than the national average by 35%. Breaking this down on a daily basis, it translates to 0.25 daily incidents, encompassing 0.02 violent crimes and 0.24 property crimes. Evaluating these statistics can aid in forming a more informed perspective on the safety of Atherton as a potential place to call home.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Atherton. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Atherton has decreased by 40.8%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 53.3%, while property crime has decreased by 39.4%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Atherton.
Atherton has a poverty rate of 2.7, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.
The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Atherton stands at $3,680,622, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
Atherton has an average rental rate of $5,338 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.
| Item | Atherton | California | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 24 | 51,506 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 3.4 | 3.6 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | California /100K | National /100K |
| California | 79,891 | 232 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| La Honda, CA | 1,259 | 68 | 292 | 360 |
| Ladera, CA | 1,422 | 68 | 292 | 360 |
| Fruitdale, CA | 1,226 | 68 | 292 | 360 |
| Los Altos Hills, CA | 8,670 | 49 | 358 | 408 |
| Loyola, CA | 3,526 | 93 | 396 | 488 |
| West Menlo Park, CA | 3,818 | 93 | 396 | 488 |
| Cambrian Park, CA | 3,136 | 93 | 396 | 488 |
| Atherton, CA | 7,303 | 104 | 1,281 | 1,386 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Beacon Square, FL | 7,302 | 288 | 1,532 | 1,820 |
| Nyack, NY | 7,299 | 124 | 559 | 683 |
| New London, WI | 7,307 | 54 | 337 | 391 |
| Huron, CA | 7,299 | 769 | 534 | 1,303 |
| Orland Hills, IL | 7,299 | 185 | 1,096 | 1,281 |
| Atherton, CA | 7,303 | 104 | 1,281 | 1,386 |