What to know when moving to Stockton, CA
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In California, the overall crime rates have shown some positive trends in recent years. The state has a property crime rate of 1,764 per 100,000 people, which is 14% higher than the national average of 1,547. However, this rate has decreased by 26.1% since 2022. Violent crime stands at 415.5 per 100,000 people, which is 27.7% higher than the national rate of 325.3, but has also seen a decline of 17.4% since 2022.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100k (CA) vs 325.3 per 100k (US), down 17.4% since 2022
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100k (CA) vs 1,547 per 100k (US), down 26.1% since 2022
- Notable trend: Homicide rate decreased by 44.9% since 2022, at 3.2 per 100k
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (CDE)
Schools & Higher Ed
Stockton has access to a total of 9 postsecondary institutions. Notable schools include:
- California College of Barbering and Cosmetology
- Carrington College-Stockton
- Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto Campuses
- San Joaquin Delta College
- University of the Pacific
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations (NCES) + College Scorecard (ED)
Weather & Getting Outside
San Joaquin County experiences an annual precipitation of about 16.3 inches, with 51 rainy days spread throughout the year. The winter months contribute most to this total, with nearly 8.7 inches of rain falling. If you enjoy the outdoors, consider visiting:
- Victory Park - 4.5 stars (1,863 reviews)
- Shumway Oak Grove Regional Park - 4.4 stars (1,126 reviews)
- Buckley Cove Park - 4.5 stars (895 reviews)
- Children's Museum of Stockton - 4.4 stars (810 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online (CDO) + Google Places API (New)
Jobs & the Local Economy
In San Joaquin County, the unemployment rate is currently 6.4%, with a labor force of about 379,626. This includes approximately 355,490 employed individuals.
- Unemployment rate: 6.4% (December 2025)
- Employment: 355,490
- Labor force: 379,626
Source: BLS Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS)