Richmond is one of the most impoverished and crime-ridden cities in California, and should be avoided by tourists. Apart from Richmond's high rates of homicide, robbery, assault, rape, carjacking, and other violent crimes, the Chevron refinery occasionally releases hazardous chemicals into the air which require residents to "shelter in place" and avoid unnecessary outdoors excursions.
Contra Costa is also home to other oil refineries at Hercules, Antioch, and Martinez, all of which have also seen their share of hazardous material releases, but those cities have slightly more affluent populations and therefore enjoy lower crime rates than Richmmond.
The safest areas to visit are in central and southern Contra Costa County
