Crime rate in California's most misgoverned city soars, report shows; Neighboring areas stabilize

These trends highlight growing concerns about crime in the region, as reflected in an August poll.Photo byHowie MapsononUnsplash

Oakland’s crime rate has surged dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic, far outpacing other major Bay Area cities, according to an analysis of California Department of Justice data by the Bay Area News Group. While San Francisco and San Jose have seen their crime rates stabilize, Oakland’s crime figures have soared, with overall crime rates up 100% since 2020 and violent crime rates climbing 174% over the same period. Property crime rates in Oakland have also increased by 90% since 2020.

In contrast, San Francisco’s overall crime rate has fluctuated but is relatively stable compared to recent years, with a 15% increase from 2020 but a 16% decrease from 2013. San Jose boasts the lowest crime rate in two decades, with a 15% drop in overall crime since 2020 and a significant decrease in property crime.

These trends highlight growing concerns about crime in the region, as reflected in an August poll by the Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies. The poll shows strong voter support for a November ballot measure aimed at toughening penalties for repeat theft and drug offenses, supported by the mayors of San Francisco and San Jose.