Burglars and thieves stole nearly $80 million in cash and goods from people in San Jose last year, according to data NBC Bay Area has obtained from the California Department of Justice.
Experts point to low staffing levels at the police department and more brazen crooks as part of the reason crime is costing residents so much in San Jose.
Jafar Saray said his electronics store on South Second Street was recently broken into. Thieves broke a window and ran off with about $1,000 in merchandise, he said.
"Of course I am feeling very bad," Saray said. "The city is not safe."
The high cost of crime in San Jose has been rising in the past few years.
In 2013, victims lost more than $76 million. And in 2010, victims lost more than $47 million, according to the California Department of Justice. Last year, stolen vehicles accounted for nearly $36 million worth of items stolen.
"Historically, these guys go in, get things that are easily accessible and easy to conceal," San Jose Police Sgt. Enrique Garcia said. "A lot of these guys are walking around with backpacks and blend into the community."
Jewelry accounted for nearly $14 million of what was stolen, and office equipment, like computers and laptops, accounted for $5 million worth of items stolen.
Earlier this month, burglars broke into Mojo Burger, ripped out a bolted down safe and wheeled it away.
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Saray said the city needs more cops to help protect his business and catch the crooks.
"Am I able to stay here and do my business, or do I have to move out?" Saray said.
Police officials hope the recent labor agreement on the Measure B pension reform will encourage more veteran officers to stay and new ones to join the force.
In addition, police have repeatedly said they need the public's help to solve and prevent crimes.
