Safest Cities in Washington

Familiarizing the safest cities in Washington can be helpful in many situations. One particular scenario we had in mind when we wrote this article is to provide information for people who are considering moving to Washington. Our goal is to choose the city that suits your needs and lifestyle.

Before anything else, here’s a rundown of some basic data on the great state of Washington:

• It has the 13th largest population in the US, at 7.69 million.
• Olympia is the state capital.
• The highest point is Mount Rainier.

There are many places to visit in Washington, especially for those who love nature and fresh air. On the other hand, there are also top cities in Washington for those who prefer to immerse themselves in the sounds of the city. 

Washington has always been a place of revolution and progress; there was the gold rush that moved the population north and then the grunge music rebellion. More recently, Washington has become the center of the tech industry. There’s no better place for those who are following their dream to move the world forward.

Safest Cities in Washington State in 2021 – 1 to 5

Krupp

(Property: 0; Violent: 0)

• Population: 56
• Median age: 37.5
• Median household income: $31,250
• Median house value: $103,300

The Town of Krupp was first settled by John Marlin in 1871. To honor the first settler, some still call the town Marlin. 

Aside from being one of the safest towns in Washington state, Krupp is the smallest town in Washington population-wise. Only 56 people live in Krupp, with a median income of $31,250 and a median age of 37.5 years. The median cost of a house in this tiny city is $103,300.

Krupp can invest more in education, as there aren’t many students attending its schools. The public schools invest nearly $5,000 more per student than most of the US. If you’re looking for the best small towns in Washington to get away from the hustle and bustle of a big city, Krupp would be a fine choice. 

There were no crimes reported in Krupp last year, which is hardly surprising, considering that the town only has 56 people living in it.

Despite this, because Krupp is an isolated town, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Some might not even consider it one of the best places to live in Washington. It is located in the middle of the state with no major cities nearby, making it unsuitable for those who like the amenities that living in or near a big city provides.

Duvall

(Property: 558; Violent: 61)

• Population: 8,267
• Median age: 37
• Median household income: $159,597
• Median house value: $608,400

Home to Native American tribes for hundreds of years, Duvall was inhabited by Civil War veterans after the Treaty of Point Elliott was signed. When the nearby town, Cherry Valley, and all its homes and industry were moved to Duvall in 1909, the town took off, attracting even more settlers. 

What is the safest city in Washington? Duvall could be the answer. Today, this city has a population of 8,267, a median household income of $159,597, a median age of 37, and a median home value of $608,400. 

The city offers everything that an average family requires, i.e., numerous parks, a beautiful country village, and countless sceneries, such as Cherry Creek Falls, that seem to come straight out of a fairytale. Duvall also has one of the first man-made lakes designed specifically for water sports, which attracts a younger audience to the city.

However, what makes Duvall such a desirable city to live in are its year-after-year crime rates that are significantly much lower than the Washington state crime rate. In 2019, 46 property crimes (43 thefts, 3 vehicle thefts) and 5 violent crimes (1 assault, 4 rapes) were reported. Thankfully, no murders were reported that year.

On the other hand, the city’s cost of living is 59.8% higher than the US average, and the rapid increase in population turned it into a constant traffic jam. Despite this, it’s still the best place to live in Washington for those looking for safety.

Sammamish

(Property: 605; Violent: 34)

• Population: 66,686
• Median age: 38.7
• Median household income: $174,003
• Median house value: $905,400

Bordered by Lake Sammamish and the Snoqualmie Valley, the location of the city of Sammamish received its first settlers late in the 19th century. It took even longer for it to become incorporated—until the vote of 1998.

Nowadays, Sammamish has 66,686 inhabitants, a median household income of $174,003, and a median age of 38.7 years. It is one of the 10 best places to live in Washington for those who can afford it, as a median home is valued at $905,400.

Surrounded by lakes, nature preserves, and parks, Sammamish is the perfect city for nature lovers. It has a diverse economy and an unemployment rate of just 2.8%, making it attractive to the younger workforce. The city has a wide selection of art galleries and offers a variety of cultural happenings throughout the year. 

What makes this a safe city is its crime rate that’s significantly lower than the overall crime rate in Washington state. In 2019, 404 property (312 thefts, 68 burglaries, 24 vehicle thefts) and 23 violent crimes (13 assaults, 3 robberies, 5 rapes, 2 murders) were reported in the city.

Sammamish has more rainy days than any average US city, which is its second-biggest downside. The biggest one is the cost of living, which is 99.6% higher than the national average. On that note, it’s definitely not the cheapest place to live in Washington state.

West Richland

(Property: 671; Violent: 98)

• Population: 15,515
• Median age: 36.6
• Median household income: $99,817
• Median house value: $369,000

Even though the railroad went through the area in 1853, the settlement of West Richland only took off almost 20 years later. This area was originally inhabited by now almost extinct Native tribes, and it’s one of the areas that Lewis and Clark went through on their expedition.

West Richland has a population of 15,515. It’s one of the best cities in Washington for young people due to the combination of a median household income of $99,817, a median age of 36.6 years, and a median home price of $369,000.

Surrounded by gorgeous mountains, hiking trails, and vineyards, West Richland is a dream place for any nature and wine enthusiast. The economy is growing in the city, with the unemployment rate dropping to 4.4% in the last few years. 

For years, West Richland has been one of the safest cities in Washington, attracting young people who want to start a family. In 2019, 103 property crimes (76 thefts, 23 burglaries, 4 vehicle thefts) were reported, together with 15 violent ones (9 assaults, 1 robbery, 5 rapes). Coincidentally, no murders were reported that year. 

West Richland’s main flaw is that it is pretty isolated from the bigger cities, with more than 200 miles separating it from Seattle and Portland. Residents also commonly complain about the lack of entertainment in the city.

Connell

(Property: 676; Violent:191)

• Population: 5,511
• Median age: 35
• Median household income: $51,154
• Median house value: $160,700

Once used as an open range for cattle, Connell started its journey to becoming one of the best places to live in Washington state in 1883, as a junction between the Northern Pacific Railroad and the Oregon Railroad. By the early 1900s, the city was thriving. Sadly, most of the business district was destroyed in a fire in 1905.

These days, you’ll find 5,511 people living in Connell. They have a median household income of $51,154 and a median age of 35. Moreover, a median home in the town costs around $160,700.

Despite its size, you can find everything you need in this city, from theaters and museums to markets and hiking trails. Connell is probably one of the cheapest places to live in Washington state, with a cost of living that’s 16.5% lower than the national average. Moreover, what makes it desirable for many are the low commute time, above-average education investments, and, most importantly, low crime rates.

Last year, there were just 39 property crimes (24 thefts, 14 burglaries, 1 vehicle theft) and 11 violent crimes (8 assaults, 3 rapes) reported in Connell. Thankfully, not one murder was reported.

Although it is one of the safest cities in Washington state, Connell may not be desirable for some due to its fairly harsh winters. It also has less than 200 sunny days per year on average, proving to be an issue for those who are not used to this type of climate.

Safest Washington Cities – 6 to 10

Camas

(Property: 906; Violent: 41)

• Population: 25,630
• Median age: 40.2
• Median household income: $111,584
• Median house value: $474,700

The next item on our list of the safest cities in Washington is a paper-producing town. Camas has always been just that; the first paper mill was established back in 1883. The city is so centered around the papermaking industry that high school teams are named the Papermakers. In the last few years, some tech companies, such as Hewlett-Packard, established offices in Camas.

The city has 25,630 inhabitants, a median household income of $111,584, and a median age of 40.2. Buying a house in Camas will run you $474,700, according to the median real estate prices.

What makes it one of the best cities to live in Washington is that you’ll never run out of entertainment options. Apart from lakes and all the fun that comes with them, Camas residents often praise the efforts that the city puts into its arts and culture scene. The major plus for the city is that it is just minutes away from Portland (20 miles).

Especially when its proximity to Portland is considered, Camas is definitely one of the safest places to live in Washington. In 2019, 221 property (180 thefts, 30 burglaries, 11 vehicle thefts) and 10 violent crimes (3 assaults, 2 robberies, 4 rapes, 1 murder) were reported.

The cost of living in Camas is 35.9% higher than the US average, the property market is inflated, and investments in education are lower than the national average. In addition, since 2000, there’s been a 76.2% increase in the city’s population, with no signs of slowing down.

Maple Valley

(Property: 1,123; Violent: 54)

• Population: 27,542
• Median age: 35.2
• Median household income: $114,159
• Median house value: $459,400

Before becoming one of the best cities to live in Washington state, the Maple Valley area was first settled by three workers and their families in 1879. Soon enough, due to the coal present in the area, everybody wanted to move to the city. Once the population increased and the mining ceased in 1947, the city switched its focus to fishing and farming. Maple Valley was officially incorporated in 1997.

Nowadays, the city has a population of 27,542. The median household income is high, sitting at $114,159, while the population median age is fairly young, at 35.2. So, it’s probably not one of the best places to retire in Washington state. Homeowners spend a median cost of $459,400 to acquire their property in Maple Valley.

Maple Valley was proclaimed one of the top 10 family-oriented cities in the nation by Family Circle back in 2011. Moreover, it has two historical museums and numerous hiking trails and parks. The south side of the city, known as Four Corners, is being heavily invested in, with multiple restaurants, bars, and shops opening.

Compared to the Washington crime rate, crime rates in Maple Valley are significantly lower. In 2019, 311 property crimes (208 thefts, 77 burglaries, 26 vehicle thefts) and 15 violent crimes (6 assaults, 4 robberies, 4 rapes, 1 murder) were reported.

The cost of living in Maple Valley is 41.8% higher than average, representing one of the only negative points to living in this city.

Colville

(Property: 1,151; Violent: 84)

• Population: 4,854
• Median age: 43.5
• Median household income: $42,869
• Median house value: $184,600

If you’re looking for the safest place to live in Washington state, you might want to consider Colville. The city was once the main trading center on the Upper Columbia River and was established by John Work in 1825. During the 1950s, Colville had an Air Force Station that is now used for paintball.

Nowadays, 4,854 people live in the town. Their median household income is $42,869, and their median age is 43.5. If you want to buy a house in Colville, be prepared to spend a median price of $184,600. This low median home price is one of the reasons why Colville is the best city in Washington for some. 

Sights such as the Colville National Forest and the Historical Museum should be a stop on every journey through northeastern Washington. Despite the city’s low cost of living, its population has decreased by 5.8% in the last two decades, so the town remains relatively peaceful. 

In 2019, Colville had 55 property crimes (48 thefts, 5 burglaries, 2 vehicle thefts) and 4 violent crimes (2 assaults, 2 rapes). This city is definitely not too far from becoming the safest city in Washington.

The unemployment rate in Colville is 4.7%, which is significantly lower than the US average of 5.5%. Adding to the cons of living here, the city’s northern position contributes to harsh winters and a lack of sunshine during the year, with just 172 sunny days.

Selah

(Property: 1,566; Violent: 86)

• Population: 8,269
• Median age: 33.1
• Median household income: $58,120
• Median house value: $269,000

The city of Selah was incorporated in 1903. Since then, it became one of the major fruit processing hubs, and the chances are your favorite apple juice came from this city. One of them was operated by the Yakama Tribe from 2004 to 2010.

One of the best cities in Washington state, the city of Selah has a population of 8,269, a median household income of $58,120, a median age of 33.1, and a median property value of $269,000. Moreover, it is surrounded by hiking trails, parks, and endless, beautiful nature. It has a mild Mediterranean climate that suits most people, and it offers all the charms of living in a small, yet developed town. 

The low crime rates in this small city are its most significant upside. 127 property crimes (90 thefts, 24 burglaries, 13 vehicle thefts) and just 7 violent crimes (3 assaults, 2 robberies, 2 rapes) were reported in 2019.

Selah is the best place to live in Washington state due to its unemployment rate of only 3.6%. Residents commonly complain about the air quality, which has diminished because of the fruit processing industry in the area.

Lynden

(Property: 1,740; Violent: 93)

• Population: 16,219
• Median age: 39.2
• Median household income: $66,085
• Median house value: $386,400

Lynden was established in 1873. Moreover, it was favored by the Dutch settlers, and it shows signs of the heritage they brought today. There are buildings that resemble windmills as well as multiple Dutch restaurants.

Being one of the safest cities in Washington state, Lynden is home to 16,219 people. They have a median household income of $66,085 and a median age of 39.2. Moreover, the median cost of a home in Lynden is $386,400.

Lynden’s proximity to the Canadian border brings more companies to the city, which strengthens its economy. Additionally, the city has museums, parks, and art centers to keep you entertained. Lastly, its unemployment rate of only 3.7% is enough assurance that you won’t be out of a job if you live there. 

The city is safer than most with its low crime rates. In 2019, 263 property (229 thefts, 30 burglaries, 4 vehicle thefts) and 14 violent crimes (8 assaults, 2 robberies, 4 rapes) were reported.

Even though it’s considered one of the best places in Washington state to live in, it can also get quite depressing for those who dislike rain and having no sunlight.

Safest Cities in Washington – 11 to 15

Pasco

(Property: 1,781; Violent: 223)

• Population: 77,326
• Median age: 29.5
• Median household income: $62,775
• Median house value: $247,500

Once a campsite for the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the city of Pasco, like many others in the region, was brought to life once the railroad went through the area and brought settlers. The city was officially incorporated in 1891, and the major influx of new residents started in 1941 when the Grand Coulee Dam was completed.

Now considered one of the best places to live in Washington state, Pasco is home to 77,326 people. The city’s median household income is $62,775, and the median age of the population is one of the lowest in the country at 29.5. Moreover, the median price for a home in this part of Washington is $247,500.

As part of Washington’s Tri-Cities region, Pasco has all the conveniences of living in a big city. The vast choice of museums and exhibits, parks, and restaurants is more than enough to satisfy even the most demanding visitors. 

What is the cheapest city to live in Washington state? Well, Pasco is one of the cheapest when it comes to mid-sized cities as the cost of living is 4.7% lower than the national average. 

When it comes to Pasco’s crime rates, in 2019, there were 1,328 property crimes (936 thefts, 252 burglaries, 140 vehicle thefts) and 166 violent crimes (94 assaults, 34 robberies, 33 rapes, 5 murders) reported.

The negatives of living in Pasco include the high inundation of new residents (120.2% since 2000) and insufficient investment in public education. In this case, it’s probably not the best city to live in Washington for families with children.

Richland

(Property: 2,049; Violent: 171)

• Population: 59,609
• Median age: 36.9
• Median household income: $77,686
• Median house value: $288,200

Richland was just a small town on the Columbia River until the US Army acquired land in the area to house its Manhattan Project workers. The city’s population went from just 300 to over 25,000 by the time World War II ended. The population grew with every war threat, together with the city’s production of plutonium.

Although there are now 59,609 people living in Richland, it is still considered one of the safest cities in Washington state. The city’s median household income is $77,686, the median age is 36.9 years, and the median cost of a home is $288,200.

The city sits on two rivers, delivering an unforgettable experience for water sports enthusiasts. Richland has come a long way since WWII. Today, the city is heavily involved in the tech industry. Additionally, agriculture is becoming more prominent, providing job opportunities for all residents.

Crime data for 2019 in Richland shows that there were 1,199 property crimes (949 thefts, 195 burglaries, 55 vehicle thefts) and 100 violent crimes (65 assaults, 9 robberies, 24 rapes, 2 murders) reported. 

Being one of the top 12 cities in Washington with good home security, Richland is considered one of the best places to retire in Washington. Additionally, the city’s cost of living is 1.6% lower than the national average. 

However, life in Richlandstill has its negatives: it is an isolated city—220 miles away from Portland and Seattle. Also, its population has increased by 39.5% since 2000, causing a significant increase in housing prices.

Bellevue

(Property: 2,838; Violent: 123)

• Population: 150,364
• Median age: 37.7
• Median household income: $120,456
• Median house value: $905,400

Bellevue was a rural area until the Lake Washington Floating Bridge opened in 1940. The opening of the bridge directly connected it to Seattle and brought many of the larger city’s residents who want to escape from the high Seattle crime rate and housing prices.

Nowadays, 150,364 people live in Bellevue, with a median household income of $120,456, a median age of 37.7 years, and a median house price of $905,400.

The name of the city originated from the French phrase “beautiful view,” and that is exactly what Bellevue offers. Lakes, national parks, and trails are everywhere, making you forget how close you are to Seattle, one of the busiest cities in the world.

The Bellevue, WA crime rate in 2019 is as follows: 4,263 property crimes (3,498 thefts, 426 burglaries, 339 thefts) were reported during the year, along with 185 violent crimes (80 assaults, 76 robberies, 28 rapes, 1 murders).

As one might expect, living right next to one of the most expensive cities in the US can significantly lighten your wallet. As a result, the cost of living in Bellevue is 96.5% higher than the national average. The traffic can also get quite congested.

Bellingham

(Property: 2,926; Violent: 273)

• Population: 96,014
• Median age: 31.5
• Median household income: $53,396
• Median house value: $429,900

One of the most popular cities in Washington among tourists, Bellingham is otherwise referred to as the City of Subdued Excitement. It was once driven by coal as its only resource. Today, most of the residents work in the health and education sectors.

Bellingham has 96,014 occupants. The city’s median household income is $53,396, the median age of residents is 31.5, and the median home price is $429,900.

Its relative proximity to Seattle and Vancouver BC is the biggest reason why Bellingham is one of the best cities to live in Washington. Tourists are constantly visiting the city, so you’ll never run out of new people to meet. It’s surrounded by water, with Lake Whatcom on one side and Bellingham Bay on the other, making it a perfect spot for water sports and fishing aficionados.

In 2019, 2,689 property crimes (2,251 thefts, 323 burglaries, 115 vehicle thefts) and 251 violent crimes (158 assaults, 61 robberies, 28 rapes, 4 murders) were reported in the city, according to the Bellingham, WA crime rate data.

The downside of living in Bellingham is the cost of living, which is 21.7% higher than the national average, and the subpar investments in education. Bellingham is not a place for those who dislike crowds and busy cities, as tourist activity heavily influences every aspect of life in this city, especially the crime rates.

Vancouver

(Property: 3,242; Violent: 480)

• Population: 187,615
• Median age: 36.9
• Median household income: $61,714
• Median house value: $317,200

One of the major cities in Washington today, the Vancouver area was once described by Lewis as the only desirable settlement area west of the Rocky Mountains. Nowadays, the best places to live in Vancouver, WA are Fisher’s Creek, Felida, Shumay, and Esther Short, to name a few. 

The region was shared by the US and Britain until 1845 when the US gained sole custody.

There are 187,615 inhabitants in Vancouver, with a median household income of $61,714 and a median age of 36.9 years. The median asking price of a house is $317,200.

The city is overflowing with historical heritage, with places such as Fort Vancouver and the Historical Museum. As with most of Washington state, the nature that surrounds Vancouver is out of this world.

The Vancouver, WA crime rate in 2019 has exceeded state and national averages. Property crimes were 54% higher than the national average, with 5,998 of them reported (4,302 thefts, 888 burglaries, 808 vehicle thefts). Moreover, violent crimes were 27% higher than the national average, with 889 of them reported (495 assaults, 185 robberies, 206 rapes, 3 murders).

Increased crime rates aren’t Vancouver’s only negative point; the city has also seen a population increase of 19.4% in the last two decades, causing a slight housing crisis. Moreover, the cost of living is 14.3% higher than in most of the US, so it’s definitely not the cheapest place to live in Washington state.

Honorary Mentions

Kent

(Property: 3,969; Violent: 371)

• Population: 133,489
• Median age: 34.2
• Median household income: $72,062
• Median house value: $384,100

First named Titusville after one of its early settlers, Kent got its present name after the County of Kent in England, honoring its hop-production heritage. Lastly, the city was, at one point, known as the Lettuce Capital of the World.

Being one of the most popular cities in Washington, Kent has 133,489 inhabitants nowadays. Its median household income is $72,062, and the median age is 34.2 years. A median home is valued at $384,100.

Saltwater Park, Flaming Geyser State Park, and Angle Lake are some of the wonders of nature that can be enjoyed just minutes away. Kent’s close proximity to Seattle is commonly the main motive behind moving there. Additionally, work can be found in Kent, as the unemployment rate is 5.5%, which is below the national average.

The Kent, WA crime rate may dissuade some people from moving here. In 2019, 5,200 property crimes were reported (3,598 thefts, 754 burglaries, 848 vehicle thefts), along with 486 violent crimes (146 assaults, 242 robberies, 94 rapes, 4 murders).

Its proximity to Seattle comes with a price, and that price is the cost of living, which is 30% higher than the average US numbers show. Public education investments are below the national standard as well.

Lakewood

(Property: 3,769; Violent: 757)

• Population: 62,089
• Median age: 35.7
• Median household income: $51,972
• Median house value: $326,500

Commonly considered one of the best places to retire in Washington state, Lakewood had its first Country and Golf Club established back in 1894, in order to attract the rich and famous to the area. In fact, it was the first golf club west of the Mississippi. The town also had the Oakes Pavilion built on Lake Steilacoom in 1923, offering boating, bathing, and water sports. It was later converted into the Lakewood Ice Arena.

Lakewood has a population of 62,089, a median household income of $51,972, and a median age of 35.7 years. The median value of a home in this city is around $326,500.

Lakewood is the best city in Washington for golfers, as golf still remains to be one of the most common pastime activities. Tourists can visit the museum or enjoy some of the islands and parks located nearby. The city’s population has increased by just 1.5% since 2000, allowing it to invest in education rather than in building new neighborhoods. Lakewood invests 50% more in education than the average US city.

In 2019, the Lakewood, WA crime rate looked like this: 2,296 property (1,607 thefts, 385 burglaries, 304 vehicle thefts) and 461 violent crimes (309 assaults, 101 robberies, 49 rapes, 2 murders) were reported.

The negatives of living in Lakewood include the cost of living, which is 15.3% higher than average, and the unemployment rate of 6.7%. For most, the low number of sunny days per year also presents a major issue.

Seattle

(Property: 4,496; Violent: 585)

• Population: 776,555
• Median age: 35.3
• Median household income: $92,263
• Median house value: $714,400

The safest neighborhoods in the Seattle area include Windermere, Lawton Park, and Madrona, to name a few. Like most cities with plenty of mineral resources, Seattle was a boom-and-bust city in the past. First, it was the timber that everyone came for, then the gold. Shipbuilding had the same fate, with a few years of extraordinary success followed by a downfall. 

Today, Seattle is known as one of the most expensive cities in the US, mostly due to the tech industry boom that started during the 1990s.

Seattle’s population is 776,555. The median household income is $92,263, and the median age is 35.3. Property prices are among the highest in the state, with the median price of a home being $714,400. 

Although it’s not one of the safest cities in Washington, it’s definitely an interesting place to visit.

Tourists can’t miss seeing the Space Needle, the city’s most known landmark. There’s also the Museum of Pop Culture and the Seattle Art Museum. One of the world’s most exciting cities has everything you need, from restaurants and bars to sports events. For those who decide to move to Seattle permanently, finding a job shouldn’t be a difficult task, as the unemployment rate is just 4.1%.

During 2019, 34,333 property crimes (23,478 thefts, 7,210 burglaries, 3,645 vehicle thefts) were reported in Seattle, along with 4,471 violent crimes (2,746 assaults, 1,339 robberies, 358 rapes, 28 murders). The Seattle murder rate per 100,000 people is 3.7, which is below the national but above the state average.

The sheer number of property crimes is what makes Seattle an unsafe city. Also, the number of assaults and robberies is concerning. Adding to the negatives of living there, the cost of living is 72.3% above the US average.

Tacoma

(Property: 5,221; Violent: 845)

• Population: 221,259
• Median age: 35.7
• Median household income: $62,358
• Median house value: $309,900

Incorporated in 1875, Tacoma was a major point on the Northern Pacific Railroad and the center of the region, up until Seattle’s development was accelerated by the discovery of gold in the city’s vicinity. Today, according to Washington state crime statistics, it is one of the most dangerous cities in Washington.

Nowadays, 221,259 people chose Tacoma as their home. The median household income is $62,358, the median age is 35.7 years, and the median home price is $309,900.

The Museum of Glass and Point Defiance Park, with its zoo and aquarium, are the places to see in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Mount Rainier National Park for all your hiking needs. The city has a diverse economy, with healthcare, retail, and manufacturing being the most prominent industries. Jobs in Tacoma have decreased by 2.92% in the past year. This isn’t so bad when compared to jobs nationally declining by 6.18% during the same period.

The Tacoma crime rate in 2019 is a cause for concern and a major downside of living in this city: 11,415 property crimes were reported (8,021 thefts, 1,768 burglaries, 1,626 vehicle thefts), as well as 1,848 violent crimes (1,250 assaults, 422 robberies, 160 rapes, 16 murders).

The unemployment rate in Tacoma is relatively high at 5.2%, but it’s still lower than the national rate. Also, the cost of living is 13.3% higher than the US average.

Spokane

(Property: 5,919; Violent: 690)

• Population: 227,579
• Median age: 36.2
• Median household income: $50,306
• Median house value: $217,900

What is the sunniest city in Washington state? Spokane is the answer. This city shows evidence of human settlement from 13,000 years ago. The Spokane tribe, the city’s namesake, is considered their direct descendants. The area was always oriented towards natural resources and manufacturing, but today, it’s trying to transition to a more service-oriented economy.

Spokane has a population of 227,579. The median household income is $50,306, the median age is 36.2 years, and the median home costs $217,900. 

What makes Spokane one of the best places to live in Washington, despite all its flaws? The city’s redeeming quality is the nature that surrounds it: Riverfront Park, Spokane Falls, and Riverside State Park are all sights that will leave you breathless. The cost of living is 7.7% below the average numbers.

However, it’s up to you to decide whether these points outweigh the negatives, the main of which is the crime rate. The Spokane crime rate is the highest on this list. In 2019, there were 13,048 property crimes (10,026 thefts, 1,743 burglaries, 1,279 vehicle thefts) and 1,520 violent crimes (973 assaults, 311 robberies, 230 rapes, 6 murders) in the city

Aside from the high crime rate, Spokane’s high unemployment rate of 5.9% proves to be an issue as well. In the past year, there has been a decrease in job growth.

Conclusion

The Evergreen State can be a great home for anyone, whether you want to retire somewhere peaceful and golf every day or if you’re looking for a new start in a big city.

Hopefully, this list of the safest cities in Washington can help guide you through the process of choosing the right spot for you—if nothing else, then even just for a short visit.