Is Calabasas Safe, Pros and cons of living in Calabasas
Calabasas, California, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and upscale living, nestled within the scenic Santa Monica Mountains. This Los Angeles County city is known for its beautiful landscapes, exclusive communities, and a high quality of life that attracts many. Its proximity to major employment centers in Los Angeles, coupled with its own distinct charm, makes it a desirable place to call home.
The city provides a lifestyle that balances natural beauty with modern conveniences. Residents enjoy a community atmosphere that prioritizes privacy and well-being, all within a setting that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Understanding the various facets of life in Calabasas is key for anyone considering a move to this sought-after Southern California locale.
Is it Safe to Live in Calabasas?
Calabasas generally offers a safe living environment, with crime rates that are lower than both the national and state averages. The overall crime rate in Calabasas is 31% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). Violent crimes are particularly low, with a rate that is 55% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes).
While the city is considered safe, it’s important to note that crime rates can vary by neighborhood. Most residents consider the central parts of Calabasas to be the safest (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). Your chance of being a victim of violent crime in Calabasas is approximately 1 in 618, and for property crime, it’s about 1 in 77 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
Cost of Living in Calabasas
Housing Expenses
The cost of living in Calabasas is significantly higher than the national average, largely driven by its real estate market. Housing expenses in Calabasas are 286% higher than the national average (according to Payscale). The median home price in Calabasas was approximately $1.63 million as of a recent report, and it has seen a slight increase of 1.6% year-over-year (according to Calabasas Housing Market). The median list price for homes in Calabasas was $3,285,000 as of a recent market update (according to Andrew Spitz). For rentals, the median rent in Calabasas is around $7,400 per month, indicating a high demand in the rental market as well (according to Calabasas, CA Housing Market & Rental trends).
Everyday Expenses
Beyond housing, other daily expenses in Calabasas also tend to be higher than the national average. Utility prices are 9% higher than the national average, and transportation costs, including gas prices and bus fares, are 38% higher (as reported by Payscale). Grocery prices are also elevated, sitting 9% above the national average (according to Payscale). Overall, Calabasas’s cost of living index is 239, meaning it is 139% higher than the national average (according to AreaVibes).
Job Market and Economy
Employment Landscape
Calabasas has a robust job market, with a slight growth in employment reported recently. From one year to the next, employment in Calabasas grew by 0.196%, with the number of employees increasing from 10.7k to 10.7k (as reported by Data USA). The most common employment sectors for residents include Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Educational Services (according to Data USA).
Major Employers
Several key employers contribute to the economic vitality of Calabasas. Among the popular employers are Harbor Freight Tools, with an average salary of $78,500, NewMark Merrill Companies, averaging $79,802, and Viewpoint School, with an average salary of $84,000 (as reported by PayScale). These companies, along with others in various sectors, provide diverse employment opportunities for the local workforce.
Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate in Calabasas has seen a decrease in recent times, though it remains slightly above the Los Angeles County average. In March, the unemployment rate in Calabasas decreased to 7.1% from 7.5% the previous month (according to Patch). This rate is still higher than the county’s overall unemployment rate of 5% (as reported by Patch). Statewide, California’s unemployment rate was 5.4% in February 2026 (according to USAFacts).
Climate in Calabasas
Temperature and Seasons
Calabasas enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, relatively wet winters. The temperature typically ranges from 45°F in December to 82°F in August (according to myPerfectWeather). The warmest months are June through September, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 78°F. Conversely, the cooler season spans from late November to mid-March, with average daily highs below 67°F.
Rainfall and Sunshine
The city experiences distinct seasonal variations in rainfall. The rainy period generally lasts from mid-October to late April, with February being the wettest month, averaging about 3.5 inches of rain (according to myPerfectWeather). Conversely, the dry season extends from late April to mid-October, with July typically having almost no rainfall. Calabasas also benefits from ample sunshine, with an average of 3,503.6 hours of sunshine annually (according to myPerfectWeather).
Education in Calabasas
Public School System
Calabasas is served by the highly-regarded Las Virgenes Unified School District (LVUSD), known for its strong academic standards and college preparatory programs. The district consistently ranks among California’s top-performing school districts. Calabasas High School, for instance, has a strong reputation for its AP and Honors programs, competitive sports, and arts, and consistently ranks as one of the best high schools in California (according to Patch). Arthur E. Wright Middle School is also recognized as a top-performing school within the district (according to SchoolDigger.com).
Private and Charter Schools
In addition to excellent public schools, Calabasas offers several prestigious private educational institutions. Viewpoint School is highlighted as one of the most prestigious private schools in Los Angeles, offering college-prep academics and extensive extracurriculars (according to Patch). The district’s commitment to education is a significant draw for families looking to relocate to the area.
Demographics of Calabasas
Population and Diversity
Calabasas is home to a population of approximately 22,700 residents (as of 2024, according to Data USA). The city’s demographics show a significant White population, making up about 70% of residents, followed by Asian (11%) and Hispanic (10%) populations (according to Niche). A notable portion of the population, 26.1%, were born outside the United States (as of 2024, according to Data USA).
Age and Gender Distribution
The median age in Calabasas is around 42.8 years (according to Neilsberg). The population is fairly evenly distributed across age groups, with significant segments in the 25-44 and 45-64 brackets. For instance, adults aged 45 to 64 constitute approximately 30.5% of the population (according to Wikipedia). The gender distribution is nearly balanced, with 50.2% female and 49.8% male residents (according to Neilsberg).
Pros and Cons of Living in Calabasas
Advantages of Calabasas Living
Calabasas offers a high quality of life with its beautiful climate, abundant sunshine, and generally safe environment. The city boasts excellent schools, including highly-rated public and private institutions, making it an attractive option for families. Its scenic surroundings, proximity to nature, and a generally peaceful atmosphere contribute to a desirable lifestyle. The strong sense of community and the availability of upscale amenities further enhance its appeal.
Challenges of Calabasas Living
The primary drawback of living in Calabasas is its exceptionally high cost of living, particularly concerning housing. Both home prices and rental rates are substantially above the national and state averages, making it an expensive place to reside. While the job market is stable, the cost of living means that a higher-than-average income is often necessary to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Additionally, while crime rates are low, vigilance is always recommended, as with any community.