Statistically, Washington is a very safe place to be. We’re ranked 31 of 50 for violent crime (which is great for a state of our size), and our overall crime rate is 2.8 per 1,000 residents, lower than the national average. But no place is perfect, and some of our cities are definitely more dangerous than others.

We’ve previously covered the list of the most dangerous towns in Washington, focusing on a combination of property crime, violent crime, and other miscellaneous offenses. The cities on this list were ranked solely by violent crime rates using FBI data from 2011-2015. Of course, this list of the most dangerous places in Washington should be taken with just a grain of salt, as there’s so much more that goes into the character of a city.

1. Tukwila
Tukwila, WA, USA
jpellgen / Flickr
Poor Tukwila. Ranked first for both violent and property crime, the suburban city south of Seattle is by far the most dangerous place in Washington. But the good news is, although property crime rates are up, violent crime rates seem to be going down. That being said, this region is certainly worth a visit. Looking for a place to stay? Check out this fabulous all-in-one staycation in Tukwila.
2. Tacoma
Tacoma, WA, USA
andrewghayes / Flickr
Technically, you have a 1 in 115 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime if you live in Tacoma, putting it second on the list of dangerous places. On the other hand, Tacoma is one of the most popular places to live in Washington, and tons of people are moving there.
3. Fife
Fife, WA, USA
Kurt Clark / Flickr
Only about 9,400 people call Fife home, but the eastern suburb of Tacoma rivals a bigger city with its violent crime rates, which have increased in recent years. Fife is also known for being one of the best small towns for foodies in Washington.
4. Yakima
Yakima, WA, USA
mSeattle / Flickr
There were 12 murders per 100,000 people reported in the Yakima area in 2012, and violent crime rates (mostly assault) are higher than average for a city of its size. But don't let that deter you completely; Yakima is also hands down one of the coolest places to visit in Washington.

Related Stories

These Are The 10 Safest Cities To Live In Washington

These Are The 10 Safest Cities To Live In Washington

 This Year, Washington Is Experiencing A Major Surge In Stink Bug Populations

This Year, Washington Is Experiencing A Major Surge In Stink Bug Populations

 There’s A Deadly Plant Growing In Washington Yards That Looks Like A Harmless Weed

There’s A Deadly Plant Growing In Washington Yards That Looks Like A Harmless Weed
5. Spokane
Spokane, WA, USA
chan360 / Flickr
Spokane is the second largest city in Washington, ranking fifth in the state for violent crime. You’re more likely to be the victim of theft than assault here but, unfortunately, all crime rates have increased steadily in recent years. Spokane is also on the map for being one of the coolest cities in U.S., and we're not surprised!
6. Seattle
Seattle, WA, USA
Wiennat Mongkulmann / Flickr
Believe it or not, Seattle doesn’t even rank in the top 10 when it comes to overall crime—it usually hovers around 14 or 15. But with an assault rate of 350 per every 100,000 people (according to areavibes.com), the violent crime rate earns it a spot on the list of most dangerous places in Washington. That being said, Seattle is also one of the coolest places in the country. Just check out this list of amazing Seattle restaurants for further proof.
7. Port Orchard
Port Orchard, WA, USA
compdude787 / Flickr
Port Orchard is a pretty peaceful place, but it’s ranked seventh in the state for violent crime. You have a 1 in 160 chance of being the victim of a violent crime here. That being said, you'll love spending time in this charming Washington small town.
8. SeaTac
SeaTac, WA, USA
Atomic Taco / Flickr
SeaTac sits in between Tacoma and Seattle, so it comes as no surprise that it makes our list. Violent crime has increased 28% in recent years, and your odds are now 1 in 162 of being a victim. If you do find yourself in SeaTac, be sure to check out this peaceful sanctuary in the most unlikely of places.

Of course, statistics are just that – statistics. Take them as you will, and enjoy living in beautiful Washington. Despite being considered as technically the most dangerous places in Washington, these cities are all worth visiting. After all, Washington is still the best state.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

most dangerous places in Washington

Beth C. | January 08, 2022

What are some of the best natural attractions in Washington?

Washington's cities are always exciting and eventful, but we're also partial to the natural spaces that surround them. In our opinion, no trip to the Evergreen State is complete without spending some quality time in the great outdoors. Of course, Washington is a large state, and figuring out the perfect itinerary can be a daunting task. But we're here to help! The following is a list of some of our favorite natural attractions in Washington that everyone will enjoy: Cape Flattery in Clallam County, Spray Park in Ashford, Dr. Jose Rizal Park in Seattle, Lenore Lake Caves in the Soap Lake Area, Hurricane Hill on the Olympic Peninsula, Horseshoe Lake, Tolmie Peak Perfection Lake in the Enchantment Lakes, the Hoh Rainforest in Forks, Skyline Divide Trail in the Mount Baker Area, Priest Point Park in Olympia, Harry's Ridge Trail near Toutle, Bean Creek Base near Cle Elum, Duncan Garden in Spokane, and Tree Cave in Kalaloch. How many of these famous outdoor attractions in Washington have you experienced?

Related Articles

Explore Washington