Washington State, known for its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, unfortunately, also harbors areas with significant crime issues. As of 2024, several cities in Washington are grappling with high crime rates, affecting their safety and livability.
Here’s an in-depth look at the most dangerous cities in the state, highlighting key statistics and details that shed light on their current safety challenges.
- Fife: Topping the list is Fife, a small city struggling with a high rate of property crimes. The city experiences 129 crimes per square mile, and residents have a 1 in 15 chance of falling victim to vehicle theft, burglary, or other thefts. The likelihood of encountering violent crime, including assault, rape, robbery, or murder, is also alarmingly high, with a 1 in 131 chance.
- Tukwila: Close behind Fife, Tukwila’s residents face a staggering 1 in 6 chance of becoming a victim of property crime. The city’s violent crime rate is also concerning, with a 1 in 137 chance of such incidents. Additionally, Tukwila has one of the highest incidences of rape in the state.
- Spokane: Known as a commercial center, Spokane reports 243 crimes per square mile. The probability of being a victim of property crime is 1 in 17, and for violent crimes, it’s 1 in 146. The city’s high burglary rate, with 1,743 incidents recorded annually, is particularly troubling.
- Tacoma: Despite its cultural attractions, Tacoma suffers from a high crime rate. The city records 269 crimes per square mile, with assault being the most prevalent form of violent crime. The probability of facing assault, rape, murder, or robbery is 1 in 117. Tacoma also witnessed 11,577 property crimes, a significant figure given its size.
- Toppenish: This small city faces a disproportionate level of crime, with a 1 in 14 chance for residents to experience either property or violent crime. The city’s crime rate amounts to 299 crimes per square mile, concentrated primarily in areas like South Elm Street.
- Seattle: As Washington’s largest city, Seattle reports 394 crimes per square mile, mostly related to property. The likelihood of being a victim of violent crime is 1 in 168, and the city experienced over 8,000 burglaries in the last year.
- Shelton: Shelton, a small city, reports an alarming 113 crimes per square mile. Residents have a 1 in 18 chance of burglary or theft. The city recently recorded 655 crimes, 600 of which were property-related. The chance of falling victim to violent crime stands at 1 in 194.
- Aberdeen: Known as the birthplace of grunge music, Aberdeen struggles with a high poverty and crime rate. The city sees most crimes fueled by drug activities, resulting in a 1 in 15 chance for residents to be victims of burglary, vehicle theft, or theft. Aberdeen recorded 754 crimes, with 681 being property-related and 519 thefts.
- Port Angeles: This city, renowned for its Labor Day festivals, has 78 crimes per square mile, mostly thefts, motor vehicle thefts, and burglaries. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is 1 in 173, with assault being the most common violent crime.
- Lakewood: Known for its natural beauty, Lakewood is shadowed by significant crime issues. The city has a high rate of property crimes, with 1 in 2 residents experiencing such issues. Violent crimes, including robbery and assault, are also prevalent, with a 1 in 131 chance of being a victim.
These statistics reveal the serious safety concerns in these Washington cities, highlighting the need for effective crime prevention and community safety initiatives. The high rates of property and violent crimes in these areas not only affect the quality of life for residents but also pose challenges for local law enforcement and policymakers.