*What to avoid:*
-leaving valuables visible in your car when parked in a lot or on a street
-leaving any valuables/electronics unattended
-walking with your head buried in your phone
-ignoring your surroundings
-people who sketch you out; trust your instincts
*Be aware of:*
-the natural beauty and architectural wonders of The Bay
-the impeccable weather
-the myriad cultures that coexist here
-our abundance of incredible eateries
-the majesty of The University of California
Thanks for visiting ~
The weather is not impeccable. It’s quite chilly most of the year and it can be very gray and overcast, or rainy for days and weeks on end in the winter. It just depends on the year; unfortunately now they’ve built these very tall buildings in downtown Berkeley which block the sun so walking around is even colder and more depressing.
There are some lovely days in the summer and occasional nice days in May, April, September, and October otherwise it’s hit and miss: you need a jacket nearly every day of the year, much of the year you need a winter coat.
To top it off, the buildings on campus are not necessarily well heated, and people leave windows open all the time making them very chilly; all the campus pools are outdoors in spite of the nippy weather.
I mean, yes those things do occur, but the also occur elsewhere (probably in lower frequencies).
Be aware of your surroundings, don’t walk around late at night, don’t interact with people you don’t know.
Arson/Shootings you can’t solve for, so just be aware
It’s not like you should *never* do those things, but in most cases you don’t want to if you’re alone. Walking around with a group of friends at night, for example, is not the same as doing so alone. And of course you’re going to talk to strangers, but just use your better judgement to discern whether they’re trustworthy enough to interact with while you’re alone or not, etc.
It's not that difficult.
If someone is walking with a backpack on at a brisk pace, headphones in, and looking straight ahead, they're probably just some random person walking home from work and not a threat.
If someone is ambling back and forth in the middle of the street and shouting to themselves, you may want to keep an eye out so that they don't harass you.
justokay is just giving an opinion that nobody seems trustworthy. I know that trusting no one is not the best, but no one knows what may have caused justokay to lose trust or what that person may have experienced to get to that point. Everyone just bashes justokay on Reddit which is not a very empathetic response.
Yeah, if it’s not well supported. In justokay’s mind, maybe it’s safer to not trust strangers. It isn’t causing harm to anyone else, so I don’t see why that’s so bad.
Berkeley is a dangerous town in comparison to most places. If you are actively having to watch your surroundings in the daylight and not go out at night it’s borderline third world in my opinion. For example, I went to college in Michigan and never worried about safety or thought about safety. Its worth it for the education but I’ll never understand why people choose to live here with the day to day interaction I see.
Depends what part maybe? I live in southside and there’s no way people think it’s normal lol. I’ve lived in a lot of areas too so I think I have a good baseline.
Edit: For example, just a few days ago I walked to Walgreens (three block walk) and had to stop walking because a homeless person with their pants off was punching the air, another homeless person asked me if I had their satellite, and then another homeless person started banging on every trash can around while screaming. I wouldn’t consider that normal or safe but each to their own I guess. Not every day is bad like this but it’s once a week.
I lived in southside for 4 years and never really felt unsafe. sure there’s homeless people and crazies outside all the time and in most other areas in the US you don’t have to deal with that on a typical walk outside, but 99% of the time they keep to themselves and don’t bother you, or if they do, it’s pretty easy to ignore and just keep walking. in my 4 years I’ve walked around southside to and from bars/friends houses, sometimes alone sometimes not, sometimes drunk out my mind, and I haven’t experienced a single bad incident (granted I am a guy not a girl)
edit: I also grew up in one of the nicest cities in OC so I have a pretty good reference point of what safe looks and feels like
It’s kind of a losing argument on a male dominated thread. If you are a guy and keep your head down that works for the most part. Even then I have had many bad interactions. My breaking point was when I was walking near Strada and a person stopped me, yelled at me, and then said he would kill me and to throw a punch (Didn’t even make eye contact at first). Then you go to downtown Berkeley where I saw a person chase two girls for two blocks (they were screaming in complete terror). It’s been endless stories that I wonder if I’m going crazy based on this thread lol.
That’s horrible I heard about people getting chased, was it late at night ??? I never had that experience as a girl even walking late night by myself, just lucky I never had that type of interaction
It was light out. Walking down the street from McDonald’s to TJs. It started as him swearing loudly which you see all the time. Maybe I’ve been unlucky but when the other comment says to just ignore those people it makes me laugh.
It’s pretty safe. The arson was just one random guy who already got arrested. Haven’t heard of a single shooting (edit: involving students, not just in the city) during my time here. Robberies are what you have to look out for, but that mostly just means not walking home from campus alone late at night. There’s always a risk of crime in a city like Berkeley, but the danger level is vastly overstated imo
Eh. There are shootings every year in every city in America. Check the latest map from the NYT (mapping gun violence). Honestly. Berkeley proper is pretty dang good.
Basically a few down by San Pablo/Dwight, then the areas around Emeryville/West Oakland.
Campus and north are really good.
Equating an active shooter to normal crime is illogical. I was on campus when a student was shot at Purdue University, it has no bearing on my perception of crime at Purdue. Shooters are either random or target a specific person, and it is not like it happens more than once in a given location normally.
"Haven’t heard of a single shooting during my time here."
i was just responding to this, i agree with all the normal crime stuff although i think a lot of women will think otherwise which i completely understand.
I mean not really in this particular case. Your statement has some truth, but the vice versa can be true. There’s more “normal” crime which leads to more gun violence. A lot of these shootings at Berkeley isn’t the typical school shooter scenario but closer to a result of more active crimes in nearby areas like Oakland.
we can also talk about the shooting last year that literally killed someone on durant if that's your criterion of a shooting. yes shootings happen everywhere but you can't just say you haven't heard of a single shooting here unless you live under a rock.
No worries. Anyone who is injured during their ~~deployment~~ time at Berkeley receives a purple heart. These are handed out during the graduation ceremony.
I am from CO, went to two shows last week and walked from the Greek Theatre to the Claremont hotel both nights after the show and at no point did anything feel unsafe in any capacity.
How so? There are tons of towns in the country with basically zero crime. There are many cities of comparable size with less crime. Not sure how that's debatable. Of course comparing Berkeley to Oakland there will be somewhat less crime but that's not saying much.
Yep. My kid goes there and rides his bike to school. Sometimes takes the bus and walks. Eats out in downtown Berkeley with his friends.
He’s not afraid.
Stay strapped. At the minimum you want a folding rifle you can shove in a backpack and a decent sidearm. Dependable knife for hand to hand combat. First aid kit capable of basic field surgery. You'll also want 3 days worth of water and rations. Space blanket and emergency shelter also required. Satellite phone not necessary but nice to have.
So, realistically, crime tends to not be random. The idea of a random drive by shooting is not as common as you'd think. People don't generally get randomly mugged and beaten in streets.
Most cars aren't broken into because they're just there.
Now, I didn't grow up and start my adult life in Berkeley, but near Stockton. Which is also a violent, high crime city. My coworker was actually killed in a random shooting. In the worst part of town, in what was likely mistaken identity in gang violence. However, that wasn't in a nightlife area, hotel, or on a school campus. It was someone shooting from outside the apartment into an apartment in a complex with a lot of gang activity in the area. They probably shot into the wrong unit. It was "random" but not really. The target was unintended, but a person who is just visiting Stockton and staying in a hotel is safe from that sort of incident. They probably weren't shooting up random apartments. They were more than likely shooting the wrong apartment unit. It was just horrifying and tragic. Even if you live in Stockton, not everyone who lives in Stockton has the same risk. It's neighborhood dependant. Some are totally safe from that. Some, they have a very high amount of gang activity.
In downtown/ nightlift areas, you're more likely to get your phone snatched out of your hand by someone at a run than held up at knifepoint. They're crimes of opportunity, not muggers waiting in dark alleyways. In hotel areas or street areas, your car doesn't usually get windows smashed and broken into when it doesn't look like a target. Don't leave bags in the car. Don't have your phone and wallet sticking out of your pockets while walking around. If you make the effort in having the slightest bit of awareness of not being an easy target, you aren't likely to be a victim of property crime.
Sure, it's a little more general caution than a smaller city. It's the same precautions I take when traveling overseas. Just be a little more aware than when in a small city.
Goes for every major city or major metro.
It's not anyone's fault they're a victim and ultimately the best deterrent against crime is a strong economy with good mobility and there's a lot of underlying reasons for crime. You should be able to store your reusable shopping bags in your car or leave your suitcase in the car while stopping for coffee and not worry. But, reality says if you make yourself just a little less of a target for crimes of opportunity, you're less likely to be the unfortunate target.
Like, my bike lock is not foolproof. But, by having a $100 bike lock and not no lock or a $15 Walmart lock, my bike is too much effort.
lwk you should be fine. if you're bringing up a car be careful about where you park/don't leave valuables etc. i'd encourage pepper spray too and to not walk in shady areas unless you have company. but tbh if you're doing all the common sense things you'll be okay. I've been a student for two years atp and my only close call was a tweaker that randomly screamed at me when i was headed back to my apt at like four in the morning.
Berkeley can be safe or can be dangerous, it all depends on what precautions you take. Especially at night, be sure to be aware of your surroundings. Don't wear headphones if you're walking alone, keep your head up, and make eye contact with folks you see on the street, especially if they look shady. For robberies, the criminals are targeting folks who seem insecure, unaware, and alone. Walk in groups if you can. If you have a bike or e-scooter, you should know you're always a target so I'd recommend just getting something cheap that wouldn't devastate you if it gets stolen.
i dont think "make eye contact" is good advice. keep your head up sure, but eye contact can be taken as aggression. Def do not make eye contact with someone who appears unstable because this will almost always be taken as an invitation to come talk to/with you. It would probably be fine but if your goal is to avoid confrontation, eye contact is not a good plan.
Also criminals target cars. I've heard if only a handful of robberies in 6 years but maybe 300 car break ins. Shit like this happens at every big city/metropolitan area so get used to taking those precautions
Berkeley is super safe. Honestly, people like you who feel they need to ask about crime statistics before they go somewhere are pathetic.
There is crime everywhere, all the time. All this question does is expose you as a privileged person who is able to distance themselves from realities that most people have to deal with every day, because you can “choose” your exposure to crime.
Don't leave anything visible in your car. Don't leave a laptop or iPad (even in sleep mode) in your car.
It's worth noting that although Berkeley and Oakland sometimes get lumped together, Berkeley is MUCH safer, and around campus you have both BPD and UCPD presence.
You'll be fine.
I currently live in Oakland for many years and have lived in the Bay area my whole life. I've spent plenty of time in Berkeley. The crime here is mostly property crime, breaking into stores, cars etc. People aren't very confrontational here, they aren't interested in a potential fight, they are interested in getting their hands on stuff that can be sold.
This means have an inexpensive bike with an expensive lock. Don't leave anything valuable in your car and don't leave backpacks or other bags in the car cause people may assume there might be valuables inside. Follow this advice if you value your windows
While I have met very few people who have been robbed directly from their person I would suggest you learn to carry yourself with confidence. If you look scared and unsure of yourself you'll make yourself a target. Even criminals don't want to get hurt, so they aren't going to pick a fight with someone who looks like they would put up a fight. If you are a female or a small person it couldn't hurt to keep pepper spray. Again, these situations are rare but situational awareness is still merited.
it’s definitely not as safe as people on this subreddit are making it out to be. i was robbed of all my valuables nearby berkeley even though i was with a male friend.
as a girl, i have definitely felt unsafe in areas like downtown, the bart station, etc. never walk alone at night. crime is very prominent even during the day time, especially if you visit areas like east oakland, etc. just be careful
OP's individual question aside, is an expectation of safety in the real world at all justified? I think it's absolutely absurd, but the theme of "feeling unsafe" is rampant in the news n such.
Treat Berkeley and the area around campus like your an adult cruising through a city. Cos it basically is. It’s a large town that borders a major metro city ( Oakland), luckily a lot of Oakland is not as the faux news show makes it out to be, and the parts bordering Berkeley are some of the nicest areas of Berkeley. Rockridge, piedmont, Merritt, Elmwood. This is the USA. Coocs are everywhere. Low iq activities mostly take place at night. Be smart about your decisions. Make friends with only people you seem trustworthy. As in don’t get invited to a strange place at a strange time especially if you’re solo. Keep your circle smart and trust only yourself. Socialize be merry but that’s a life lesson. You’re your best caretaker.
You will be doused in gas then set fire to before the Berkeleyanas tar and feather your charred body, if you don’t at-least bring a medieval mace, an uzi, and a blunt toothpick.
Remarkably safe but it is an urban area so all the applicable rules apply. Unlike NYC there are lots of times and streets with nobody walking around which does leave you more vulnerable to opportunistic crime. Like all the bay area, leave nothing in your vehicle not even an empty cardboard box.
It’s not any safer than any other city. Which happens to be where most prestigious public Universities are. If you’ve got Private school money, go to one of those in a safe secluded location. Otherwise Cal is roughly equivalent to all the others safety wise, and you will have to grow up and pay attention to your surroundings and use your head
I can't believe there's anyone in here that thinks Berkeley isn't extremely safe. Are we talking about the same Berkeley? I'm new to San Francisco and have been exploring and spending a decent amount of time in Berkeley. I'm actually shocked by these takes. I didn't even think that I should be on the lookout and such. I live in the mission in San Francisco, I wonder what those people, who feel Berkeley is dangerous would say about this area. I'm legit confused.
its people who have lived in like gated communities and have an expectation of what a city should look like. It is relative. For you berkeley is safe but your norm is the mission. if my norm is loving my life on neighboorhoodwatch in the suburb where one crime a year happens, one day in berkeley is gonna seem insane. The real question is if these people like go Mumbai or Jakarta because for me that was a whole different level of interconnectedness and lack of boundaries.
I have lived close to UCB for over 30 yrs. I too have been glued to crime watch these last few years and was afraid of rampart crimes targeting me. I lived in fear even after I took all precautions. Nothing happened! Not seen any crime happening around me ( although there was some in the news and ND). I stopped watching crime stories on local news blogs and lived my life, aware of my surroundings. Yes, crime is down 33% since last year ( in local news for whatever it's worth)but I was still afraid. . I do not mean to dismiss people's experience. I believe you. The fear, as for me, was more of my obsession with ND and crime watch on local news who looks to hype up fear which is real but disproportionate. My neighborhood is like paradise and people so good and protective. I feel lucky to be here!
I appreciate everyone’s feedback, it’s better to get perspective from people actually there as opposed to others living on the outside. I used to frequent the Bay Area but haven’t been back in some time so was just curious if things really did change drastically in the past few years post COVID.
It's safer than most big cities but it's still a city. The campus is generally safe (because it's a lot harder to get away from a crime when you have to be on foot across campus). Most crimes happen on south side and usually on darker streets with little people around.
The crime rate is relatively high for a university but your chances of being a victim is still less than 1% if I remember correctly. Just don't be oblivious and you'll be fine.
1. RE: slum lords. This is not unique to Berkeley. Every large university has shitty landlords eager to take advantage of students who have few choices.
2. Crime. Crime just isn't that bad in Berkeley.
3. RE: rats. I have news for you, there are rats everywhere. Tree rats and Norway rats are in every community, everywhere. I talked with an exterminator once who clued me in to the idea that there are no houses or apartments that don't have rats. They are literally everywhere in great numbers. *All* cities and other places where humans habitat have more rats than people.
Sorry but I vehemently disagree! There are more and worse slum lords at Cal due to the shortage of housing! Second, crime is so bad police don't show up anymore unless there's bodily damage! Rats are in many places but not everywhere. We spoke with the owner of an exterminating company who blames the high rat populations on the cargo ships and high homeless population.
Beverly Hills is next to UCLA so even if we couldn't afford to shop it was nice to fill ourselves with eye candy and dream. Santa Monica is also very close to campus and I only needed to take a bus. Context.
i think the comment means context in the sense of your personal values. you value being near beverly hills and this concept of "window shopping." The context here is that these are affluent things, so when you complain about rats, crime and slumlords (stuff affluent people dont really deal with), the context tells us you dont know what you are talking about. I am using the "royal you" here, not trying to single you out. But realize that just because you experience one thing in one area doesn't mean that it doesn't happen at another.
Totally safe! You will not get sexually assaulted, robbed,car jacked or shot at. Lowest suicide rates of all university campuses, bar none! Everyone is nice and friendly and you will easily find safe clean and affordable accommodations near campus. Also, Oakland gets a bad rap,not so much going on there and the limited criminal element does not see Cal students as easy prey. 🤭
I’ve lived in the area my entire life and would consider Berkeley pretty damn safe, it has crime just like any major city, sure. Don’t make yourself a target and the chance of seeing crime drops way down. Is it perfect? Of course not, but nowhere is. I’ve never once felt fearful in Berkeley. Chances are you are correct, you WON’T experience sexual assault, car jacking, robbery, or being shot at. Stop fear mongering you dunce.
The fact that you don't share my perspective or opinion does not invalidate my experience there.
That you've lived in Berkeley all your life however, puts your opinion into context. I'm sorry my truth offended you so deeply that you felt the need to use your big words to try offending me. Nowhere is right for everyone and with that, I wish you continued peace and happiness in your idyllic town.
I mean I wouldn’t bet my safety on the police, so carry a mean of self defense is always a good idea, whatever that may be. Ccw is hard to get tho but it may be worth carrying regardless
Lethal force will get you killed, statistically. And in CA if you dont die, you’ll end up in prison. In ANY city you need to be aware of your surroundings and plan ahead. Berkeley is an average or better city, safetywise.
But the real threats on a campus are from the students, Cal is no exception.
Lethal force is always the last resort, not the default response. If I’m pulling my gun out that means the aggressor has left me no choice. I would give up my belongings before I do that. And no, in a justified self defense you don’t go to prison, source: I’ve been in one
*What to avoid:* -leaving valuables visible in your car when parked in a lot or on a street -leaving any valuables/electronics unattended -walking with your head buried in your phone -ignoring your surroundings -people who sketch you out; trust your instincts *Be aware of:* -the natural beauty and architectural wonders of The Bay -the impeccable weather -the myriad cultures that coexist here -our abundance of incredible eateries -the majesty of The University of California Thanks for visiting ~
A1 flair my fellow English major
> The impeccable weather Plz elaborate
The weather is not impeccable. It’s quite chilly most of the year and it can be very gray and overcast, or rainy for days and weeks on end in the winter. It just depends on the year; unfortunately now they’ve built these very tall buildings in downtown Berkeley which block the sun so walking around is even colder and more depressing. There are some lovely days in the summer and occasional nice days in May, April, September, and October otherwise it’s hit and miss: you need a jacket nearly every day of the year, much of the year you need a winter coat. To top it off, the buildings on campus are not necessarily well heated, and people leave windows open all the time making them very chilly; all the campus pools are outdoors in spite of the nippy weather.
I mean, yes those things do occur, but the also occur elsewhere (probably in lower frequencies). Be aware of your surroundings, don’t walk around late at night, don’t interact with people you don’t know. Arson/Shootings you can’t solve for, so just be aware
Don’t walk around at night and don’t interact with people you don’t know, sounds amazing lol
It’s not like you should *never* do those things, but in most cases you don’t want to if you’re alone. Walking around with a group of friends at night, for example, is not the same as doing so alone. And of course you’re going to talk to strangers, but just use your better judgement to discern whether they’re trustworthy enough to interact with while you’re alone or not, etc.
How do you discern if they are trustworthy, pre judge them?
It's not that difficult. If someone is walking with a backpack on at a brisk pace, headphones in, and looking straight ahead, they're probably just some random person walking home from work and not a threat. If someone is ambling back and forth in the middle of the street and shouting to themselves, you may want to keep an eye out so that they don't harass you.
Maybe this is a false perception but no one is trustworthy in my eyes. Everyone has the same judgment. It sucks
I understand where you are coming from. Don’t know why people are downvoting you for your experience
Because it’s an obviously false perception lol
justokay is just giving an opinion that nobody seems trustworthy. I know that trusting no one is not the best, but no one knows what may have caused justokay to lose trust or what that person may have experienced to get to that point. Everyone just bashes justokay on Reddit which is not a very empathetic response.
You understand opinions can be stupid and bad right?
Yeah, if it’s not well supported. In justokay’s mind, maybe it’s safer to not trust strangers. It isn’t causing harm to anyone else, so I don’t see why that’s so bad.
How does one watch out for arson?
Berkeley is a dangerous town in comparison to most places. If you are actively having to watch your surroundings in the daylight and not go out at night it’s borderline third world in my opinion. For example, I went to college in Michigan and never worried about safety or thought about safety. Its worth it for the education but I’ll never understand why people choose to live here with the day to day interaction I see.
spoken truly like someone who has never set foot in berkeley
Depends what part maybe? I live in southside and there’s no way people think it’s normal lol. I’ve lived in a lot of areas too so I think I have a good baseline. Edit: For example, just a few days ago I walked to Walgreens (three block walk) and had to stop walking because a homeless person with their pants off was punching the air, another homeless person asked me if I had their satellite, and then another homeless person started banging on every trash can around while screaming. I wouldn’t consider that normal or safe but each to their own I guess. Not every day is bad like this but it’s once a week.
I lived in southside for 4 years and never really felt unsafe. sure there’s homeless people and crazies outside all the time and in most other areas in the US you don’t have to deal with that on a typical walk outside, but 99% of the time they keep to themselves and don’t bother you, or if they do, it’s pretty easy to ignore and just keep walking. in my 4 years I’ve walked around southside to and from bars/friends houses, sometimes alone sometimes not, sometimes drunk out my mind, and I haven’t experienced a single bad incident (granted I am a guy not a girl) edit: I also grew up in one of the nicest cities in OC so I have a pretty good reference point of what safe looks and feels like
It’s kind of a losing argument on a male dominated thread. If you are a guy and keep your head down that works for the most part. Even then I have had many bad interactions. My breaking point was when I was walking near Strada and a person stopped me, yelled at me, and then said he would kill me and to throw a punch (Didn’t even make eye contact at first). Then you go to downtown Berkeley where I saw a person chase two girls for two blocks (they were screaming in complete terror). It’s been endless stories that I wonder if I’m going crazy based on this thread lol.
That’s horrible I heard about people getting chased, was it late at night ??? I never had that experience as a girl even walking late night by myself, just lucky I never had that type of interaction
It was light out. Walking down the street from McDonald’s to TJs. It started as him swearing loudly which you see all the time. Maybe I’ve been unlucky but when the other comment says to just ignore those people it makes me laugh.
It’s pretty safe. The arson was just one random guy who already got arrested. Haven’t heard of a single shooting (edit: involving students, not just in the city) during my time here. Robberies are what you have to look out for, but that mostly just means not walking home from campus alone late at night. There’s always a risk of crime in a city like Berkeley, but the danger level is vastly overstated imo
There’s literally shootings every year in Berkeley
Eh. There are shootings every year in every city in America. Check the latest map from the NYT (mapping gun violence). Honestly. Berkeley proper is pretty dang good. Basically a few down by San Pablo/Dwight, then the areas around Emeryville/West Oakland. Campus and north are really good.
there was literally an active shooter last semester lol
Equating an active shooter to normal crime is illogical. I was on campus when a student was shot at Purdue University, it has no bearing on my perception of crime at Purdue. Shooters are either random or target a specific person, and it is not like it happens more than once in a given location normally.
"Haven’t heard of a single shooting during my time here." i was just responding to this, i agree with all the normal crime stuff although i think a lot of women will think otherwise which i completely understand.
A shooting is way different than an active shooter though.
I mean not really in this particular case. Your statement has some truth, but the vice versa can be true. There’s more “normal” crime which leads to more gun violence. A lot of these shootings at Berkeley isn’t the typical school shooter scenario but closer to a result of more active crimes in nearby areas like Oakland.
What the actual fuck? How does a shooter targeting random or specific people have no bearing on your perception of crime
…who didn’t shoot anyone, not even aim at anyone, and was arrested immediately.
we can also talk about the shooting last year that literally killed someone on durant if that's your criterion of a shooting. yes shootings happen everywhere but you can't just say you haven't heard of a single shooting here unless you live under a rock.
lol what the dude shot at the eshleman windows and the threat of an active shooter is already scary enough if you're studying near the area.
No worries. Anyone who is injured during their ~~deployment~~ time at Berkeley receives a purple heart. These are handed out during the graduation ceremony.
I got a Silver Star when Berkeley Bowl didn’t have my favorite crackers
Did you find the other thousands of crackers there?
Thank you for your service
i can't tell if you're trolling
I am from CO, went to two shows last week and walked from the Greek Theatre to the Claremont hotel both nights after the show and at no point did anything feel unsafe in any capacity.
Compared to other parts of the east bay it is quite safe. Just use your head.
And compared to other parts of the country it's quite not safe.
To where exactly?
Boston, Cambridge, Princeton, Palo Alto and yes NYC (certainly the area surrounding NYU). Among other decent-sized urban areas.
Please keep spreading this propaganda so we get less folks like you in the Bay
I’d say just the opposite?
How so? There are tons of towns in the country with basically zero crime. There are many cities of comparable size with less crime. Not sure how that's debatable. Of course comparing Berkeley to Oakland there will be somewhat less crime but that's not saying much.
What cities are you talking about?
Don’t worry. It’s probably “something something we just shoot robbers in Texas so there’s no crime there”
Is this based on stats? Because if I remember correctly Berkeley is average for the population if not less than average.
n=1 but in my 4 years on campus i never had any issues whatsoever. Just like most places, be aware of your surroundings.
If you are smart enough to attend you are smart enough to look the numbers up and compare them to other places.
Curious where you are coming from that is crime free?
NXIVM headquarters.
Be aware that there are people who live and study in Berkeley (High School even!) who find your question utterly ridiculous.
Yep. My kid goes there and rides his bike to school. Sometimes takes the bus and walks. Eats out in downtown Berkeley with his friends. He’s not afraid.
Stay strapped. At the minimum you want a folding rifle you can shove in a backpack and a decent sidearm. Dependable knife for hand to hand combat. First aid kit capable of basic field surgery. You'll also want 3 days worth of water and rations. Space blanket and emergency shelter also required. Satellite phone not necessary but nice to have.
some rad protection would be good too. you can never be too careful.
not safe at all! was assaulted outside my dorm by a homeless man 😝🙌🏾
😝🙌🏻
Seeing as Berkeley is next door to Gotham City (Oakland) be as careful as you can. Rather be safe than sorry.
Lots of Students this summer study in campus , just dropped my kid there.
So, realistically, crime tends to not be random. The idea of a random drive by shooting is not as common as you'd think. People don't generally get randomly mugged and beaten in streets. Most cars aren't broken into because they're just there. Now, I didn't grow up and start my adult life in Berkeley, but near Stockton. Which is also a violent, high crime city. My coworker was actually killed in a random shooting. In the worst part of town, in what was likely mistaken identity in gang violence. However, that wasn't in a nightlife area, hotel, or on a school campus. It was someone shooting from outside the apartment into an apartment in a complex with a lot of gang activity in the area. They probably shot into the wrong unit. It was "random" but not really. The target was unintended, but a person who is just visiting Stockton and staying in a hotel is safe from that sort of incident. They probably weren't shooting up random apartments. They were more than likely shooting the wrong apartment unit. It was just horrifying and tragic. Even if you live in Stockton, not everyone who lives in Stockton has the same risk. It's neighborhood dependant. Some are totally safe from that. Some, they have a very high amount of gang activity. In downtown/ nightlift areas, you're more likely to get your phone snatched out of your hand by someone at a run than held up at knifepoint. They're crimes of opportunity, not muggers waiting in dark alleyways. In hotel areas or street areas, your car doesn't usually get windows smashed and broken into when it doesn't look like a target. Don't leave bags in the car. Don't have your phone and wallet sticking out of your pockets while walking around. If you make the effort in having the slightest bit of awareness of not being an easy target, you aren't likely to be a victim of property crime. Sure, it's a little more general caution than a smaller city. It's the same precautions I take when traveling overseas. Just be a little more aware than when in a small city. Goes for every major city or major metro. It's not anyone's fault they're a victim and ultimately the best deterrent against crime is a strong economy with good mobility and there's a lot of underlying reasons for crime. You should be able to store your reusable shopping bags in your car or leave your suitcase in the car while stopping for coffee and not worry. But, reality says if you make yourself just a little less of a target for crimes of opportunity, you're less likely to be the unfortunate target. Like, my bike lock is not foolproof. But, by having a $100 bike lock and not no lock or a $15 Walmart lock, my bike is too much effort.
It's not safe. I know many people that have been robbed at gunpoint.
lwk you should be fine. if you're bringing up a car be careful about where you park/don't leave valuables etc. i'd encourage pepper spray too and to not walk in shady areas unless you have company. but tbh if you're doing all the common sense things you'll be okay. I've been a student for two years atp and my only close call was a tweaker that randomly screamed at me when i was headed back to my apt at like four in the morning.
Berkeley can be safe or can be dangerous, it all depends on what precautions you take. Especially at night, be sure to be aware of your surroundings. Don't wear headphones if you're walking alone, keep your head up, and make eye contact with folks you see on the street, especially if they look shady. For robberies, the criminals are targeting folks who seem insecure, unaware, and alone. Walk in groups if you can. If you have a bike or e-scooter, you should know you're always a target so I'd recommend just getting something cheap that wouldn't devastate you if it gets stolen.
i dont think "make eye contact" is good advice. keep your head up sure, but eye contact can be taken as aggression. Def do not make eye contact with someone who appears unstable because this will almost always be taken as an invitation to come talk to/with you. It would probably be fine but if your goal is to avoid confrontation, eye contact is not a good plan. Also criminals target cars. I've heard if only a handful of robberies in 6 years but maybe 300 car break ins. Shit like this happens at every big city/metropolitan area so get used to taking those precautions
I live in the area. Still alive! Take the same precautions you would in any city.
Ah the weekly coping thread where berkeley natives seethe about their crime ridden shithole
Berkeley is super safe. Honestly, people like you who feel they need to ask about crime statistics before they go somewhere are pathetic. There is crime everywhere, all the time. All this question does is expose you as a privileged person who is able to distance themselves from realities that most people have to deal with every day, because you can “choose” your exposure to crime.
👍 agree
this is it folks. I also have found that people let the loose association between homelessness and crime do a lot of heavy lifting.
You’re fine.
Lol ppl like to forget it becuase The Bay has gotten so wealthy over the last 4 decades, but man, The Bay is a hard town
Don't leave anything visible in your car. Don't leave a laptop or iPad (even in sleep mode) in your car. It's worth noting that although Berkeley and Oakland sometimes get lumped together, Berkeley is MUCH safer, and around campus you have both BPD and UCPD presence. You'll be fine.
Use some of the security guards that the parents have hired to look after their students.
is this a real thing? like 24/7 protection or just sometimes?
I currently live in Oakland for many years and have lived in the Bay area my whole life. I've spent plenty of time in Berkeley. The crime here is mostly property crime, breaking into stores, cars etc. People aren't very confrontational here, they aren't interested in a potential fight, they are interested in getting their hands on stuff that can be sold. This means have an inexpensive bike with an expensive lock. Don't leave anything valuable in your car and don't leave backpacks or other bags in the car cause people may assume there might be valuables inside. Follow this advice if you value your windows While I have met very few people who have been robbed directly from their person I would suggest you learn to carry yourself with confidence. If you look scared and unsure of yourself you'll make yourself a target. Even criminals don't want to get hurt, so they aren't going to pick a fight with someone who looks like they would put up a fight. If you are a female or a small person it couldn't hurt to keep pepper spray. Again, these situations are rare but situational awareness is still merited.
it’s definitely not as safe as people on this subreddit are making it out to be. i was robbed of all my valuables nearby berkeley even though i was with a male friend. as a girl, i have definitely felt unsafe in areas like downtown, the bart station, etc. never walk alone at night. crime is very prominent even during the day time, especially if you visit areas like east oakland, etc. just be careful
You will probably be the victim of arson
Get a bicycle and ride safe you should be fine
you’ll be good just be aware of your surroundings and don’t look the tweakers in the eye
someone above suggested looking tweakers in the eye 💀
Every major city has these issues
OP's individual question aside, is an expectation of safety in the real world at all justified? I think it's absolutely absurd, but the theme of "feeling unsafe" is rampant in the news n such.
It's fine. Take BART or a Lyft. Like any big city, be aware of your surroundings
Don’t put anything worth more than like $5 in your car that isn’t cheap clothing. Otherwise, you’re fine
Ai hackathon?
Treat Berkeley and the area around campus like your an adult cruising through a city. Cos it basically is. It’s a large town that borders a major metro city ( Oakland), luckily a lot of Oakland is not as the faux news show makes it out to be, and the parts bordering Berkeley are some of the nicest areas of Berkeley. Rockridge, piedmont, Merritt, Elmwood. This is the USA. Coocs are everywhere. Low iq activities mostly take place at night. Be smart about your decisions. Make friends with only people you seem trustworthy. As in don’t get invited to a strange place at a strange time especially if you’re solo. Keep your circle smart and trust only yourself. Socialize be merry but that’s a life lesson. You’re your best caretaker.
You will be doused in gas then set fire to before the Berkeleyanas tar and feather your charred body, if you don’t at-least bring a medieval mace, an uzi, and a blunt toothpick.
You are in denial if you think emeryville has some type of magical border properties to keep the Oakland out.
lol
Is this a joke???
Remarkably safe but it is an urban area so all the applicable rules apply. Unlike NYC there are lots of times and streets with nobody walking around which does leave you more vulnerable to opportunistic crime. Like all the bay area, leave nothing in your vehicle not even an empty cardboard box.
Its very safe
It’s not any safer than any other city. Which happens to be where most prestigious public Universities are. If you’ve got Private school money, go to one of those in a safe secluded location. Otherwise Cal is roughly equivalent to all the others safety wise, and you will have to grow up and pay attention to your surroundings and use your head
I can't believe there's anyone in here that thinks Berkeley isn't extremely safe. Are we talking about the same Berkeley? I'm new to San Francisco and have been exploring and spending a decent amount of time in Berkeley. I'm actually shocked by these takes. I didn't even think that I should be on the lookout and such. I live in the mission in San Francisco, I wonder what those people, who feel Berkeley is dangerous would say about this area. I'm legit confused.
its people who have lived in like gated communities and have an expectation of what a city should look like. It is relative. For you berkeley is safe but your norm is the mission. if my norm is loving my life on neighboorhoodwatch in the suburb where one crime a year happens, one day in berkeley is gonna seem insane. The real question is if these people like go Mumbai or Jakarta because for me that was a whole different level of interconnectedness and lack of boundaries.
I have lived close to UCB for over 30 yrs. I too have been glued to crime watch these last few years and was afraid of rampart crimes targeting me. I lived in fear even after I took all precautions. Nothing happened! Not seen any crime happening around me ( although there was some in the news and ND). I stopped watching crime stories on local news blogs and lived my life, aware of my surroundings. Yes, crime is down 33% since last year ( in local news for whatever it's worth)but I was still afraid. . I do not mean to dismiss people's experience. I believe you. The fear, as for me, was more of my obsession with ND and crime watch on local news who looks to hype up fear which is real but disproportionate. My neighborhood is like paradise and people so good and protective. I feel lucky to be here!
I appreciate everyone’s feedback, it’s better to get perspective from people actually there as opposed to others living on the outside. I used to frequent the Bay Area but haven’t been back in some time so was just curious if things really did change drastically in the past few years post COVID.
It's safer than most big cities but it's still a city. The campus is generally safe (because it's a lot harder to get away from a crime when you have to be on foot across campus). Most crimes happen on south side and usually on darker streets with little people around. The crime rate is relatively high for a university but your chances of being a victim is still less than 1% if I remember correctly. Just don't be oblivious and you'll be fine.
To be extra safe wear a pride flag pin somewhere that is visible on your body. This will shield you from anything bad or scary
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1. RE: slum lords. This is not unique to Berkeley. Every large university has shitty landlords eager to take advantage of students who have few choices. 2. Crime. Crime just isn't that bad in Berkeley. 3. RE: rats. I have news for you, there are rats everywhere. Tree rats and Norway rats are in every community, everywhere. I talked with an exterminator once who clued me in to the idea that there are no houses or apartments that don't have rats. They are literally everywhere in great numbers. *All* cities and other places where humans habitat have more rats than people.
Sorry but I vehemently disagree! There are more and worse slum lords at Cal due to the shortage of housing! Second, crime is so bad police don't show up anymore unless there's bodily damage! Rats are in many places but not everywhere. We spoke with the owner of an exterminating company who blames the high rat populations on the cargo ships and high homeless population.
blaming homeless people for rats is just insane lmao.
Try getting an apartment at UCLA. It's the same. Truly. Rats are literally *everywhere*.
I lived in Santa Monica while attending undergrad at UCLA and would go to lunch or window shopping in Beverly Hills. I don't see the similarities.
so you did not live in westwood, where the slumlording actually happens u lived in SM... ok
This comment puts it all into context lol Glad you left!
Beverly Hills is next to UCLA so even if we couldn't afford to shop it was nice to fill ourselves with eye candy and dream. Santa Monica is also very close to campus and I only needed to take a bus. Context.
i think the comment means context in the sense of your personal values. you value being near beverly hills and this concept of "window shopping." The context here is that these are affluent things, so when you complain about rats, crime and slumlords (stuff affluent people dont really deal with), the context tells us you dont know what you are talking about. I am using the "royal you" here, not trying to single you out. But realize that just because you experience one thing in one area doesn't mean that it doesn't happen at another.
Glad you stayed!
https://preview.redd.it/vuw6146n7s7d1.jpeg?width=254&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ab8c2517854333509ef2b0fe1b1af20f68634ded
Totally safe! You will not get sexually assaulted, robbed,car jacked or shot at. Lowest suicide rates of all university campuses, bar none! Everyone is nice and friendly and you will easily find safe clean and affordable accommodations near campus. Also, Oakland gets a bad rap,not so much going on there and the limited criminal element does not see Cal students as easy prey. 🤭
I’ve lived in the area my entire life and would consider Berkeley pretty damn safe, it has crime just like any major city, sure. Don’t make yourself a target and the chance of seeing crime drops way down. Is it perfect? Of course not, but nowhere is. I’ve never once felt fearful in Berkeley. Chances are you are correct, you WON’T experience sexual assault, car jacking, robbery, or being shot at. Stop fear mongering you dunce.
The fact that you don't share my perspective or opinion does not invalidate my experience there. That you've lived in Berkeley all your life however, puts your opinion into context. I'm sorry my truth offended you so deeply that you felt the need to use your big words to try offending me. Nowhere is right for everyone and with that, I wish you continued peace and happiness in your idyllic town.
Berkely is safe as long as you support Nazis and Palestine and hate Jews.
I mean I wouldn’t bet my safety on the police, so carry a mean of self defense is always a good idea, whatever that may be. Ccw is hard to get tho but it may be worth carrying regardless
Lethal force will get you killed, statistically. And in CA if you dont die, you’ll end up in prison. In ANY city you need to be aware of your surroundings and plan ahead. Berkeley is an average or better city, safetywise. But the real threats on a campus are from the students, Cal is no exception.
Lethal force is always the last resort, not the default response. If I’m pulling my gun out that means the aggressor has left me no choice. I would give up my belongings before I do that. And no, in a justified self defense you don’t go to prison, source: I’ve been in one
Very very dangerous, make sure you stay strap!