5 Most Dangerous Towns in Washington (Based on Crime Stats & Local Warnings)

Washington State is known for its stunning landscapes, outdoorsy culture, and charming small towns, but not every place is a great spot to settle down. Some towns have high crime rates, gang activity, or just a general reputation for being rough around the edges.

Using recent crime data and local reports, here are some of the most dangerous towns in Washington—plus what exactly makes them places to be cautious.

Table of Contents

1. Tacoma – Big City, Big Crime
2. Seattle – Not the Safe, Trendy City It Used to Be
3. Yakima – Crime Rate Way Above Average
4. Spokane – High Crime in an Otherwise Cool City
5. Toppenish – Small Town, Big Crime Problem
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1. Tacoma – Big City, Big Crime

“Laurie -4-2 Browns Point Light house Tacoma Washington” by Laurie Littlefield-Wells is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Tacoma has a lot going for it—cool museums, waterfront views, and a growing food scene. But it also has one of the highest violent crime rates in the state.

Gun violence and gang activity have been long-standing issues.
Property crime is 40% higher than the national average.
Some neighborhoods, like Hilltop, have historically struggled with safety issues (though gentrification is changing things).

Tacoma is improving, but crime is still a real problem, and locals will tell you to be aware, especially at night.

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2. Seattle – Not the Safe, Trendy City It Used to Be

Seattle is Washington’s biggest city and a major tech hub, but it’s also dealing with rising crime, drug issues, and homelessness.

Car thefts, break-ins, and property crime are sky-high.
Some neighborhoods (like Pioneer Square and parts of downtown) are known for aggressive panhandlers and open drug use.
The police force has been stretched thin, and response times have slowed.

Most of Seattle is still safe, but if you’re visiting, stay aware of your surroundings—especially after dark.

3. Yakima – Crime Rate Way Above Average

Yakima is famous for its wineries and apple orchards, but it also has one of the highest crime rates in Washington.

Gang violence is a serious issue, with shootings happening regularly.
Drugs, especially meth and fentanyl, have been a long-standing problem.
The property crime rate is almost double the national average.

Yakima’s surrounding areas are beautiful, but some parts of town feel unsafe, even during the day.

4. Spokane – High Crime in an Otherwise Cool City

brown concrete building near water falls during daytime — Photo by Clay Elliot on Unsplash

Spokane is a mix of a trendy, up-and-coming city and a place struggling with serious crime issues.

It has one of the highest property crime rates in the entire country.
Drug-related crimes and car thefts are alarmingly common.
Some neighborhoods, like East Central, have been labeled as “no-go zones” by locals.

Spokane has a lot to offer, but be prepared for sketchy areas, even in broad daylight.