Group Says Local Cities Rank High On 'Safest City in California' List

A business consortium of home security providers has named Saratoga as the top Safest City in California in which to live. Los Altos finished just a couple spots back - in 3rd place - and Cupertino finished 12th. Foster City was named in 19th place, Sunnyvale 32nd and Benicia 40th.

Here are some of the specific city-related comments from the SafeWise site:

About Saratoga:
"With a well earned reputation for outstanding schools, creative dining and a small-town ambiance, Saratoga offers just about everything a family needs. Plus, it also has the honor of being the safest city in California. The most recent FBI crime report reveals that less than 20 violent crimes and two robberies were reported in law enforcement in 2011, which is commendable. Overflowing with opportunities for community engagement, recreation, and a strong business vibe, it’s no wonder once families move to Saratoga they tend to stay."

About Los Altos:
"The resident(s) of Los Altos must feel safe knowing their city is the third safest and that the most recent FBI Crime Report notes less than 10 incidents of aggravated assault were reported to authorities in 2011. Safe streets and a median age of just 34 also make Los Altos a desirable destination for transplants with children. Los Altos’ Tiny Tots play-based preschool program, youth theater and variety of camps make working and living in Los Altos stress free."

About Cupertino:
"If you’re looking for a city that exudes community cohesiveness, you’ve found it. With a number of progressive community involvement programs, like its block party program, the nearly 60-year-old city encourages its citizens to get to know one another. Cupertino’s block leader program is another forward thinking program that’s helped the city develop a harmonious, incredibly string community and powerful communities are great at fighting crime and keeping the bad guys at bay."

About Foster City:
"With just two robberies reported to authorities in 2011, it’s no wonder Foster City ranks in our top 20 safest cities in California. Foster City has also been recognized more than once by “Money” magazine as one of America’s “Best Places to Live” and in 2009, Forbes ranked the city number 10 on its list of “America’s Top 25 Towns to Live Well In.”

About Benicia:
"In addition to its stellar safety record, Benicia also boasts a unique history, having once served as the state’s capital. Situated along the Carquinez Strait (part of San Francisco Bay), Benicia is unequivocally picturesque and offers an eclectic collection of things to do. From its Heritage Home Tour to Arts in the Park and the Downtown Farmers Market, when you call Benicia home you’ll never be left wondering what to do."

The study was made from the company's data and research since 2011, as well as the most recent FBI Crime in the U.S.

See the full list of the top 50 Safest Cities in California here.