Is San Dimas Safe, Pros and cons of living in San Dimas
San Dimas, California, offers a blend of suburban comfort and accessibility, situated in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley. This city is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and its convenient location, providing residents with a gateway to both the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and the vibrant offerings of the greater Los Angeles area. As you consider making San Dimas your home, understanding its various facets—from safety and cost of living to its community and amenities—is essential for a well-informed decision.
The city boasts a population of over 33,000 residents, characterized by a diverse demographic makeup and a strong sense of community. San Dimas provides a balanced lifestyle, appealing to those seeking a quieter pace than the bustling metropolis while still maintaining proximity to urban conveniences. This exploration will delve into the key aspects of living in San Dimas, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for prospective residents.
Is it Safe to Live in San Dimas?
San Dimas has a crime rate that is 21% higher than the national average (according to AreaVibes). The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in San Dimas is 1 in 354, and the chance of being a victim of property crime is 1 in 44 (according to NeighborhoodScout). However, other sources indicate a different perspective, with one report stating that the average violent crime rate is 66.8 per 100k residents, which is 37.1% below the national average (as reported by the FBI Crime Data Explorer). Property crime averages 167.1 per 100k, which is 2.1% above the national average.
When examining crime statistics, it’s important to consider the source and the specific metrics used. For instance, NeighborhoodScout indicates that violent crime in San Dimas occurs at a rate higher than in most communities of all population sizes in America, with a rate of 3 per one thousand inhabitants. Conversely, the FBI Crime Data Explorer suggests a lower violent crime rate than the national average. Property crimes are a more significant concern, with a chance of victimization being one in 45 (according to NeighborhoodScout).
Despite varying statistics, San Dimas is described as a “Very Safe” area by HoodScore, with minimal recent crime incidents and no registered sex offenders nearby. This classification is based on a HoodScore of 95, indicating strong safety indicators and a low-risk environment. The city has seen a total of 82 recent crimes, including 20 severe incidents, 60 medium-level offenses, and 2 low-level crimes (as reported by HoodScore).
Cost of Living in San Dimas
The overall cost of living in San Dimas is approximately 57% higher than the national average (according to PayScale). Housing expenses are particularly notable, being 141% higher than the national average. Utility prices are also slightly above the national average, by about 9%, while transportation costs, including gas and bus fares, are 38% higher than the national average.
For those considering homeownership, the median home value in San Dimas is around $778,177 (as reported by Livability.com). Renters will find that the median monthly rent is approximately $1,947 (according to Livability.com). The average cost of living in San Dimas is estimated at $2,601 per month, placing it among the more expensive cities globally and within the United States (as per Livingcost data from March 2026).
When comparing San Dimas to the state average, it is 0% less expensive to live in than the average city in California, based on an analysis by ERI Economic Research Institute. This suggests that while San Dimas is more expensive than the national average, it is on par with the average cost of living within California.
Housing Market Trends
San Dimas currently presents a housing market with a median listing price of $919,000 (according to data from March 2026). The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,271 per month, and for a two-bedroom, it is around $2,555 per month (as reported by Apartments.com in May 2026). These figures indicate a robust rental market with costs that are 38% higher than the national average rent price.
In terms of sales, the median sale price has experienced a year-over-year decline of -7.59%. However, the days on market for homes for sale have risen by 54.84% year-over-year, suggesting a shift towards a buyer’s market or a slower sales pace. The median rent has seen a month-over-month increase of 2.11%, indicating continued demand from renters.
As of March 2026, San Dimas is considered a balanced market, meaning the supply and demand for homes are relatively equal. For those looking to rent, the average rent in San Dimas is $2,271 per month, which necessitates a monthly income of about $7,570, or $90,840 annually, to comfortably afford housing without exceeding 30% of one’s income (as advised by Apartments.com).
Job Market and Economy
As of the most recent data, employment in San Dimas has seen a slight growth of 0.592%, increasing from approximately 16,600 to 16,700 employees. The most common employment sectors for residents include Health Care & Social Assistance, Educational Services, and Retail Trade (according to data from 2024). This indicates a diverse employment landscape within the city.
The average annual salary in San Dimas is approximately $50,228, which breaks down to about $24.15 per hour (as of April 2026, reported by ZipRecruiter). Salaries typically range from $36,223 to $61,604 annually, with some top-paying professions including Software Engineer, Elevator Mechanic, and Transactional Attorney. Some popular jobs, such as Registered Nurse, even exceed the city’s average salary, with an annual pay of $111,673 (according to ERI SalaryExpert).
The unemployment rate in California was 5.5% in December 2025 (as reported by the Employment Development Department). While specific unemployment data for San Dimas is not as readily available, the broader state figures provide context for the job market. Major employers in the San Dimas area include large retail chains like Walmart and Costco Wholesale, as well as food service companies like McDonald’s and Taco Bell (according to Indeed.com).
Climate and Weather
San Dimas experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, relatively wet winters. The average annual temperature ranges from a low of 42°F to a high of 93°F throughout the year (as reported by Livability.com). Snowfall is virtually nonexistent, with zero inches recorded annually.
The city receives a moderate amount of annual precipitation, averaging about 18 inches (according to Livability.com). February is typically the wettest month, with approximately 4.7 inches of rainfall. Summers are hot and clear, with average daily high temperatures reaching above 87°F from June to September, peaking in August with highs around 91°F. Winters are cooler, with average daily high temperatures below 71°F from November to March, and December has the lowest average low temperatures around 45°F.
Humidity levels remain comfortable year-round, with dew points generally between 34°F and 56°F. San Dimas enjoys abundant sunshine, with approximately 3,415 hours annually, making it a pleasant place for outdoor activities for a significant portion of the year. The dry season typically spans from April to November.
Education and Schools
San Dimas High School is a well-regarded public institution, consistently ranking among the top schools in California. It serves approximately 1,248 students in grades 9-12 and boasts a graduation rate of 94%, placing it in the top 30% of high schools in the state (as per National Center for Education Statistics and CA Dept. of Education data). The school demonstrates strong performance in English Language Arts proficiency, with 75% of students meeting or exceeding standards, significantly higher than the California state average of 47%.
While math proficiency at San Dimas High School is 47%, which is higher than the state average of 34%, it is an area identified for potential growth. The student-teacher ratio is 21:1, which is equal to the California state average. Minority enrollment at the school is 81%, with a diversity score that is slightly lower than the state average.
In addition to San Dimas High School, the area is served by several other well-rated public schools. Schools in the 91773 zipcode, which includes San Dimas, have an average math proficiency score of 47% and a reading proficiency score of 60%, both exceeding state averages. These schools collectively contribute to San Dimas’s reputation as a community that values education.
Demographics and Diversity
San Dimas is home to a population of approximately 33,789 residents, making it the 245th most populated city in California out of 1,570 cities (according to US Census data). The city’s population is projected to decline slightly, with a 2026 projection of 33,686 residents. The demographics reveal a diverse community, with Hispanic residents making up the largest group at 40.9% (as per Niche and Census data).
Other significant racial and ethnic groups include White residents at 33.7%, and Asian residents at 16.3%. Approximately 21.5% of San Dimas residents were born outside the country. The median age in San Dimas is 43.3 years, indicating a population that is slightly older than the national average, with 19.2% under 18 and 20.8% over 65.
Citizenship within San Dimas is high, with 94.4% of residents being US citizens, which is above the national average. The median household income in San Dimas was $105,321 in 2024 (as reported by Census data), with about 6.5% of families living below the poverty line. The gender distribution is relatively balanced, with 52% female and 48% male residents.