When I was considering moving to Burbank, a friend asked me, "Is it safe there?" I looked up the data and found that it's much safer than I expected.

Burbank is one of the safer cities in LA County. The Burbank Police Department (BPD) operates as an independent police department with about 200 officers. It is a self-governing city with its own police force, not under the LA County Sheriff.

Looking at crime rate data, Burbank maintains a lower crime rate compared to the overall average in California and the city of LA. Particularly, the rate of violent crimes (robbery, assault, murder, etc.) is lower than the state average. Property crimes (theft, vehicle theft, etc.) occur to some extent anywhere in California, but Burbank is well-managed in this regard.

There are differences in safety levels by neighborhood. The Verdugo Woodlands and hillside areas are quiet with low crime rates. The downtown Burbank commercial district has more foot traffic, and occasionally experiences pickpocketing or vehicle break-ins. The areas around the airport also have many commercial facilities, so caution is advised there.

Be cautious of vehicle-related crimes. Throughout California, leaving items in your car can lead to smash-and-grab thefts. Burbank is no exception, so it's essential not to leave bags or valuables in plain sight in your car. Be especially careful in shopping mall or park parking lots.

Regarding nighttime safety, downtown Burbank feels relatively safe late in the evening, as there are people in restaurants and bars. However, it's best to avoid walking alone in secluded alleys at night, as this is advisable anywhere. Following basic urban safety rules is important.

The non-emergency number for the Burbank Police is (818) 238-3000. For emergencies, call 911, and you can report vehicle theft or minor thefts through the non-emergency line. You can check local crime statistics and safety information on the Burbank Police Department website (burbankca.gov/bpd).

Overall, Burbank is one of the safer cities in LA County for families. Of course, no city has 100% perfect safety, but Burbank is a good choice for living while following basic safety rules. For those feeling anxious about safety in the early stages of immigration, Burbank offers a relatively reassuring environment.