Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Washington
Washington state is renowned for its natural beauty, but like any other place, it has areas facing significant crime challenges. In this article, we'll delve into the ten most dangerous cities in Washington, shedding light on their crime rates and safety concerns.
1. Fife
Fife, a suburb of Tacoma, tops our list with a significant crime issue. Despite its small population of 10,301, it had the second-highest property crime rate in the state. Furthermore, Fife recorded the highest murder rate in Washington for a city of its size in 2020, with four homicides. Vigilance is essential, especially after a casino night in this city.
Population: 10,301
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,378 (Most dangerous)
Property Crimes Per 100k: 8,746 (Second most dangerous)
2. Tukwila
Tukwila makes a return to our list due to an overall crime rate almost seven times higher than the national average. In 2020, residents had a 1 in 6 chance of being a property crime victim. The city also ranked third in rape cases statewide.
Population: 20,483
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 737 (Third most dangerous)
Property Crimes Per 100k: 14,416 (Most dangerous)
3. Tacoma
Despite being dubbed one of the nation’s "most walkable cities" in 2006, Tacoma faces high crime rates. Residents had a 1 in 118 chance of being assaulted in 2020, with violent crime nearly triple the national average.
Population: 220,123
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 843 (Second most dangerous)
Property Crimes Per 100k: 5,507 (Eighth most dangerous)
4. Toppenish
Situated in the Yakama Indian Reservation, Toppenish ranks as the fourth most dangerous place in Washington. Its small population amplifies crime's impact, resulting in the state’s second-highest murder rate with just 2 homicides in 2020. The city also witnessed the highest burglary rate in the state.
Population: 8,792
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 648 (Sixth most dangerous)
Property Crimes Per 100k: 5,516 (Seventh most dangerous)
5. Seattle
Seattle, despite its serene views, has concerning crime rates. It recorded the second-highest burglary rate statewide, with 4,911 car thefts in 2020. The city also witnessed the seventh-highest violent crime rate in the state.
Population: 771,517
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 626 (Seventh most dangerous)
Property Crimes Per 100k: 4,872 (Tenth most dangerous)
6. Spokane
As Washington's second most populous city, Spokane ranks as the sixth most dangerous. While there are safe neighborhoods, some areas need improvement. In 2020, a resident of Spokane had a 1 in 19 chance of being a victim of property crime.
Population: 223,524
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 599 (Ninth most dangerous)
Property Crimes Per 100k: 5,151 (Ninth most dangerous)
7. Union Gap
Union Gap's history is intertwined with relocating entire buildings due to a changed railroad route. Today, it faces crime challenges, with particularly high property crime rates.
Population: 6,206
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 370 (18th most dangerous)
Property Crimes Per 100k: 6,155 (Third most dangerous)
8. SeaTac
Home to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, SeaTac grapples with crime, especially robberies and car thefts.
Population: 29,282
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 481 (11th most dangerous)
Property Crimes Per 100k: 4,760 (12th most dangerous)
9. Shelton
Shelton, located on Puget Sound's westernmost edge, ranks high on the list due to a mix of property and violent crimes. High unemployment and poverty rates contribute to its ranking.
Population: 10,749
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 455 (13th most dangerous)
Property Crimes Per 100k: 4,809 (11th most dangerous)
10. Lakewood
Nestled on Tacoma’s southwestern edge, Lakewood ranks as the tenth most dangerous city in Washington, with high instances of car theft and violent crime.
Population: 61,432
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 620 (Eighth most dangerous)
Property Crimes Per 100k: 4,264 (17th most dangerous)
While these cities face crime challenges, it's essential to remember that communities and authorities are actively working to address these issues, aiming for safer and more secure environments for their residents. Washington continues its efforts to provide better living conditions for all its communities.