High Crime Retirement Locations: Safety Concerns Out West

Safety is paramount when you are managing your mobility and well-being. Several Western cities present unacceptable risks regarding personal security and property crime.

10. Oakland, California

Oakland pairs the high living costs of the San Francisco Bay Area with significant public safety challenges. Elevated rates of property crime and violent crime create an underlying current of anxiety for older residents. When you pay a premium to live in a region but cannot feel secure walking in your neighborhood, the value proposition for retirement evaporates.

11. Stockton, California

Stockton has historically struggled with economic instability and high crime rates. While housing is cheaper here than in coastal California, the trade-off is a distinct lack of community amenities tailored to older adults. The city also faces challenges with healthcare access, meaning you may have to travel significant distances for specialized medical treatments.

12. San Bernardino, California

Located in the Inland Empire, San Bernardino suffers from poor air quality, high summer heat, and elevated crime rates. The city’s economic struggles have resulted in underfunded public services, directly impacting the quality of local infrastructure. For retirees seeking a peaceful, health-conscious environment, this location poses serious environmental and safety hurdles.

13. Portland, Oregon

Portland was once a premier destination for active adults, but recent years have seen a sharp increase in property crime and civic unrest. The cost of living remains stubbornly high, and Oregon imposes a heavy state income tax. The extended rainy season can also heavily impact mental health and limit the outdoor activities that draw people to the Pacific Northwest.