Washington state is well-known for its natural beauty, cultural variety, and progressive policies. However, not every location in the Evergreen State is secure and tranquil.
Some towns and cities have high levels of crime, violence, and poverty, making them risky destinations for both visitors and inhabitants. Here are four of the most hazardous areas in Washington, according to the most recent FBI crime data and other sources.
1. Fife
Fife is a tiny city in Pierce County, near Tacoma and Seattle. It has a population of around 10,900 people, but a high crime rate. RoadSnacks ranks Fife as the most hazardous city in Washington, with a violent crime rate of 1,559 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 12,146 per 100,000 people. The most prevalent crimes in Fife were theft, burglary, and assault. Fife also has a high poverty rate of 17.5%, which may exacerbate the crime situation.
2. Tukwila
Tukwila is another tiny city in King County, just south of Seattle. It has a population of around 20,400 people but is also known for being dangerous. Travel Safe Abroad ranks Tukwila as Washington’s second most dangerous city, with a violent crime rate of 1,346 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 14,667 per 100,000 people.
The most prevalent crimes in Tukwila include theft, motor vehicle theft, and robbery. Tukwila also has a high poverty rate (18.9%), which may exacerbate the crime problem.
3. Spokane
Spokane is Washington’s second-largest city, located in the state’s eastern region. It has a population of around 222,900 people, but a high crime rate. According to iHeart, Spokane is Washington’s third most dangerous city, with a violent crime rate of 1,011 per 100,000 inhabitants and an 8,063 property crime rate.
The most prevalent crimes in Spokane were theft, burglary, and assault. Spokane also has a high poverty rate of 16.5%, which may impact crime rates.
4. Tacoma
Tacoma is Washington’s third-largest city, situated in Pierce County. It has a population of around 219,100 people and a high crime rate. Only In Your State ranks Tacoma as the fourth most dangerous city in Washington, with a violent crime rate of 950 per 100,000 inhabitants and a property crime rate of 7,414 per 100,000. The most prevalent crimes in Tacoma include theft, burglary, and robbery. Tacoma also has a high poverty rate of 15.3%, which may contribute to the crime problem.
Summary
In summary, Fife, Tukwila, Spokane, and Tacoma emerge as some of Washington state’s most dangerous regions, with high levels of violence and poverty. These communities have issues connected to violent and property crimes, underlining the importance of community-based activities to address underlying socioeconomic causes and improve overall safety.