Anyone here live in San Benito County / Hollister? If so, how is the crime? (Salinas: homes)

[mililani]

Hi folks,



My wife and I are looking to move to Hollister. However, we're wondering about the crime activity out there. I've looked at various crime maps, and so far, it's not showing much about Hollister. However, I've read that the gangs and gang activity have been on the rise out there over the years. I know that in this area, it's pretty inescapable. You have a lot of gangs in Salinas, surprisingly a ton in Castroville, also over in Watsonville and in Gilroy. But it was pretty news to me that Hollister was also in the news for gang violence. Not sure what to make of it since I don't see much in the Hollister police blotter crime maps. Looking for feed back / opinions. Thanks!

[roadwarrior101]

I grew up in Salinas and knew San Benito County well during that time. San Juan Bautista and Hollister are both poorer, working class agricultural towns, similar to Salinas and Watsonville. I know that at least Hollister had some gang activity and other crime and would imagine SJB might as well, although it is much smaller and does attract a lot of tourists, so it may not be as bad.

I know that in recent years, Hollister has also grown substantially with Silicon Valley commuters who are looking for cheaper home options. So, it is likely improving somewhat, but still will have its rough areas. Honestly, I don't think I'd want to live in that area if the main reason was to find something cheaper.

[Clark9272]

Hollister is a fine city. There are problems with Hispanic Gangs, but no more so than the rest of California.

[HappyinCali]

I visited Hollister last year while at Pinnacles National Park. The area we were in (off main street) had beautiful homes, spotless looking high school, and nice tree-lined streets. Not sure about rest of the city, but that area felt very safe and welcoming