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Malibu,CA Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhoods in Malibu, CA – Data, Lifestyle & Local Insights

Neighborhood Map

Exploring the Best Neighborhoods in Malibu: A Coastal Gem

Malibu, CA, is renowned for its stunning coastline, laid-back vibe, and luxurious homes nestled between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're seeking a quiet beach town atmosphere or vibrant social scenes, Malibu offers a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different tastes and lifestyles. From the iconic Malibu Colony to the charming Rustic Canyon, each area brings something unique to the table. A Malibu neighborhoods map reveals the diversity and spread of these communities, helping locals and visitors alike navigate this beautiful city.

Demographic Insights & Community Composition

The best neighborhoods in Malibu tend to attract a mix of residents, including artists, celebrities, young professionals, and longtime locals. Areas like Malibu Colony and Broad Beach are popular among affluent homeowners, featuring exquisite oceanfront estates. On the other hand, neighborhoods such as Malibu Park and Serra Retreat offer a more family-oriented environment with a mix of younger families and retirees. The community here is generally tight-knit, with a strong emphasis on preserving the natural beauty of the area and supporting local businesses.

Lifestyle Variety: What Different Areas Offer

Malibu’s neighborhoods each provide distinct lifestyle benefits. For example, Malibu Lagoon and Malibu Pier are fantastic for beach lovers and surfers, offering easy access to water activities and the famous Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market. Meanwhile, the Malibu Country Estates cater to those looking for spacious properties with horse trails and hiking paths nearby. If you prefer a more artistic and bohemian atmosphere, the Malibu Road corridor is dotted with galleries, boutique shops, and quaint cafes that perfectly embody Malibu’s creative spirit.

Crime, Safety & Neighborhood Stability

Overall, Malibu is considered a safe city with relatively low crime rates compared to other parts of Los Angeles County. Neighborhoods like Malibu Colony and Carbon Beach are not only secure due to their private gated communities but also well-maintained, offering residents peace of mind. The city’s active neighborhood watch programs and community engagement help maintain stability and safety across all Malibu neighborhoods, making it an attractive destination for families and individuals alike.

The Structure, Culture & Personality of the City’s Neighborhoods

Each Malibu neighborhood has its own distinct personality that contributes to the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Malibu Colony is famous for its exclusivity and celebrity residents, while Malibu Canyon offers a more rustic, nature-centered lifestyle. Cross Creek and La Costa neighborhoods are known for their hiking trails and stunning canyon views. The culture here is heavily influenced by outdoor activities, environmental preservation, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle that encourages community gatherings, outdoor yoga classes, and beach bonfires.

Food & Social Scene: Are Some Areas More Popular Than Others?

When it comes to dining and social activities, Malibu has hotspots that draw both locals and tourists. Malibu Pier area boasts popular eateries like Nobu Malibu, known for its exquisite sushi and ocean views, and Malibu Farm Restaurant, offering farm-to-table dishes right on the pier. Zuma Beach vicinity also features trendy spots such as Malibu Seafood and the Sunset Restaurant. The Malibu Country Mart is a social hub in the Malibu Road neighborhood, packed with cafes, boutiques, and weekend farmers markets, making it a favorite hangout spot.

Malibu Demographics

Population 10,698
Density (People/sqml.) 539
Median Age 50.2
Married Couples
54%
54% of the population of Malibu aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
19%
19% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

Best Neighborhoods

Hood  Med. Age  Have Kids  Home Price  Med. Income  Affordability 
Sycamore Park 51 34.2% $2,000,001 $214,193 9.3
Malibu Park 53.9 18.3% $2,000,001 $182,699 11.0
Ramirez Canyon 45.6 27.8% $1,940,801 $181,872 11.0
Trancas Canyon 59.7 16% $2,000,001 $179,777 11.2
Paradise Cove 48.2 26.5% $2,000,001 $180,472 11.5
Point Dume 46.8 22.6% $2,000,001 $163,612 12.5

Malibu neighborhoods bring their own blend of lifestyle, affordability, and long-term appeal, and the data in the table above helps highlight what makes each area stand out. By comparing home prices, median income, average age, families with kids, and housing affordability ratios, you can quickly uncover the best neighborhoods in Malibu—those that balance cost, character, and overall livability. For budget-minded buyers, the table also makes it easy to identify the most affordable neighborhoods in Malibu, where lower home prices combined with local income levels create meaningful value. Families can use the children-per-household data to pinpoint the best neighborhoods for families, revealing which areas offer strong community connections and a family-friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, adults looking for quieter, age-friendly surroundings can turn to neighborhoods with higher median ages to find the best neighborhoods for retirees, where comfort, stability, and an easy pace of living tend to define the local experience. This data-driven overview offers a clear starting point for understanding how each neighborhood aligns with the lifestyle you want.

Crime in Malibu

Violent Crime 78% Higher than Nat. Avg.
Property Crime 106% Higher than Nat. Avg.
Total Crime 101% Higher than Nat. Avg.
Crime
 
Reported
 
Malibu
/100k
CA
/100k
National
/100k
Murder 0 0.0 4.5 5.0
Rape 5 49.2 36.6 37.5
Robbery 12 118.1 119.1 60.6
Assault 48 472.3 325.8 256.1
Total Violent Crime 65 640 486 359
Burglary 72 708.4 305.8 229.2
Theft 264 2,597.4 1,345.2 1,272.1
Vehicle Theft 32 314.8 427.5 258.8
Total Property Crime 368 3,621 2,078 1,760
TOTAL CRIME 433 4,260 2,564 2,119

Historical Crime Data

Date & Last Updated: This data reflects the 2024 calendar year and was released from the FBI in September, 2025; this is the most current data available.