Although Americans rarely use the word “peace,” they deeply care about related concepts like safety, well-being, and community. This article explores how U.S. residents—particularly in Oakland, California—define peace through everyday experiences of security, economic opportunity, and social connection. Unlike conflict-affected regions abroad, Americans often focus on crime and policing, but their broader concerns mirror international understandings of peace. Rethinking safety in local terms can open new pathways for peace-oriented policymaking.