Overview
- California’s overall crime rate fell about 8% in 2024, with violent crime down 6% and property crime down 8.4%.
- The DOJ’s report twice relied on Oakland Police Department’s incorrect 2023 figures, warning users to “use caution” but failing to adjust the statewide totals.
- Statewide homicides reached their second-lowest level since 1966 and San Francisco recorded its lowest killing rate in six decades.
- Shoplifting surged 14% across California in 2024, standing out as the only major crime category to rise.
- Bay Area trends diverged as Oakland and San Francisco saw significant crime declines while San Jose’s rate climbed back to levels last seen in 2022.