Violent crime in Petaluma?
 

In researching CA towns where we are considering retiring, I was shocked to see the Violent Crime rate listed for Petaluma, which we've read was "small town America".

They list Petaluma as 1,16 violent crimes per 100,000 people, which is not outrageous, but compared to Santa Rosa, which I expected to be higher, was only 465 per 100,000.

They list violent crimes as Rape, Robbery, and Murder. What's up? Is Petaluma not the safe little town it is portrayed as? (I realize at 55K, it is not a little town).

Also Assault is included in the "Violent Crime" definition.

Dear Wanderer~I think Petaluma is probably ultimately safer than Santa Rosa. My guess would be more crime gets reported in Petaluma than in Santa Rosa. I was shocked to learn there are gangs in Petaluma but then again there are gangs in Napa too! I think you should still check out the two locations. I still think you will like Petaluma more given your criteria. I did some work with Hospice of Petaluma in the early 90's and was still shocked to learn teen suicide was such a frequent event there as well. I don't think anyplace is immune these days. Remember the story of the big cocaine bust last year among Amish youth in PA? I, too, long for the completely safe "little town". Petaluma is still a place,when compared to the other places in CA you have mentioned, I think you can get the "small town" feel.

Kicking some in the shin on the playground is considered a violent crime in Petaluma

Petaluma is hardly ever in the news, one of the quietest places around. I'm shocked by this report!

joesorce: HAHAHAHAHA! Great comment!
wanderer: You've been asking so many questions when are you just going to come here ? You will see and feel for yourself just how safe it is here.
Many neighbors leave there doors unlocked and even open on the occasional hot day. People walk around downtown at night. My personal experience says is that report is an exaggeration -turn off the alarms already and I'll buy you a round at one of my favorite places on the river!
R5

rasnes5 -

We're coming in October - can't wait!

I'll hold you to that round!

Sorry, I can't resist to say it again - the best time to visit Petaluma is the end of April to see the "Butter and Egg Day Parade".

That is IMO and IME the very best time to be here! Let me know the dates and we'll meet you for that round!