| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Palos Verdes Estates/100k people | California/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 101 | n/a (estimate) | 812 | 2,564 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 1 | n/a | 8.0 | 36.6 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 119.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 2 | n/a | 16.1 | 325.8 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 3 | n/a (estimate) | 24 | 486 | 359 |
| Burglary | 33 | n/a | 265.4 | 305.8 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 52 | n/a | 418.3 | 1,345.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 13 | n/a | 104.6 | 427.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 98 | n/a (estimate) | 788 | 2,078 | 1,760 |

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Palos Verdes Estates crime rate is 61.7% lower than the national average. These incidents are classified into two primary categories: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes include assault, robbery, rape and murder. Whereas property crimes encompass theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In the case of Palos Verdes Estates, there were 3 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 24 per 100,000 individuals, 93.3% lower than the national average. Additionally, Palos Verdes Estates recorded 98 property crimes, amounting to 788 per 100,000 residents, 55.2% lower than the U.S. average.
Palos Verdes Estates stands out with one of the lowest violent crime rates in the United States. Reporting only 24 violent crimes per 100,000 people, Palos Verdes Estates secures its place among the safest cities in the nation, making it an enticing destination for those in search of a new home.
In the most recently reported crime year, Palos Verdes Estates registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Palos Verdes Estates residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 16 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 88% of Palos Verdes Estates residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 13% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Determining whether Palos Verdes Estates is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Palos Verdes Estates has an overall crime rate that is 62% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.28 daily occurrences, comprising 0.01 violent crimes and 0.27 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Palos Verdes Estates as a potential place to establish residency.
Year-over-year crime rates in Palos Verdes Estates has increased by 12.2% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Palos Verdes Estates is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. Crime rates are categorized by violent and property crime. Year-over-year violent crime has decreased by 25%, while property crime has increased by 14%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Palos Verdes Estates.
Palos Verdes Estates has a poverty rate of 5.4, 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.
Escalating cost of living expenses, encompassing exorbitant housing costs, grocery and healthcare expenditures, can induce financial strain on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Such economic stress may propel individuals towards criminal activities, including theft or burglary, as a means of addressing their financial hardships. Conversely, cities characterized by a lower cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, potentially resulting in a reduced crime rate. In Palos Verdes Estates, the cost of living is 235.48% higher than the national average, reflecting a more affordable economic environment that could contribute to a decrease in crime levels.
High rent costs can create economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When a significant portion of one's income is spent on housing, there may be less money available for other essential needs such as food, healthcare and education. Economic stress can contribute to desperation and potentially lead individuals to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Average rent rates in Palos Verdes Estates are $4,176, compared to a national average of $1,444 per month.
| Item | Palos Verdes Estates | California | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 38 | 51,506 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.8 | 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 |
| Rolling Hills, CA | 1,468 | 0 | 62 | 62 |
| Ladera Heights, CA | 6,655 | 158 | 676 | 834 |
| Rancho Palos Verdes, CA | 42,809 | 92 | 883 | 975 |
| Marina del Rey, CA | 10,341 | 185 | 792 | 977 |
| View Park-Windsor Hills, CA | 12,000 | 185 | 792 | 977 |
| Del Aire, CA | 10,661 | 204 | 873 | 1,077 |
| Rolling Hills Estates, CA | 8,314 | 101 | 1,546 | 1,646 |
| Palos Verdes Estates, CA | 13,749 | 24 | 788 | 812 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Superior, CO | 13,747 | 181 | 988 | 1,169 |
| Brainerd, MN | 13,746 | 431 | 1,779 | 2,210 |
| La Grande, OR | 13,742 | 255 | 2,669 | 2,924 |
| Santa Fe, TX | 13,759 | 84 | 735 | 820 |
| South Park Township, PA | 13,760 | 37 | 418 | 455 |
| Palos Verdes Estates, CA | 13,749 | 24 | 788 | 812 |