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40 Safest Cities in Washington

From lush forests and majestic mountains to exciting metropolitan areas, Washington offers its residents and visitors access to a rich, active lifestyle. Whether you prefer a bustling city or want to lose yourself in the rural grandeur of the countryside, the Evergreen State is a desirable place to call home.

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This gem of the Pacific Northwest does a great job protecting its citizens as well as its abundant natural resources. Between 2012 and 2013, the state saw an overall decrease in violent crimes, with 2013 seeing 1,176 fewer incidents reported. Most significantly, there were 57 fewer murders across the state in 2013, which is reflected in 95 percent of the safe cities we’ve identified reporting zero murders. And while property crimes saw a slight increase overall, there were 3,023 fewer burglaries reported from 2012 to 2013.

It’s easy to see that Washington citizens care about each other and keeping their communities safe, especially considering that 29 of our 2015 Washington safe cities are appearing on our list for the second time. Nearly all cities saw decreases in reported crimes in more than one reporting area, and continued community involvement is a consistent factor that adds to the success of the cities we’re recognizing.

If the green woodlands and rushing waters of Washington are calling your name, be sure to check out the 40 cities we’ve identified as the safest in the state. And whether you choose one of these outstanding communities to call home or find another city that meets your needs, our complete Washington Safety Directory will help you make sure your home and family are as safe as possible.

How We Chose the Safest Cities in Washington

To identify the 40 safest cities in Washington, we started by ruling out cities with fewer than 3,000 residents in 2013, as well as those that did not submit a complete crime report to the FBI. From there, we analyzed the most recent FBI Crime Report Statistics from 2013 for each city, including both violent crime (robbery, murder, aggravated assault, rape) and property crime (arson, burglary, motor vehicle theft, larceny-theft). Then, to level the playing field, we calculated the chance of these crimes occurring out of 1,000 people in each city.

As previously noted, several of these cities were acknowledged for their outstanding safety records on last year’s report as well, so don’t forget to compare how your city did year over year. Here are the 2015 safest cities in Washington.

1. Sammamish

Sammamish moved up from number two last year to become the safest city in Washington on this year’s report. Overall reports of violent and property crime went from 359 in 2012, to 286 in 2013, including five fewer counts of violent crime and 20 fewer reported burglaries.

Community involvement is one way Sammamish residents help keep their city safe for all. From Coffee with a Cop activities to preserving the pristine beauty of local trails and woods as part of the Washington Trails Association, there are plenty of ways to get involved and make a difference. Clearly, the community spirit and willingness to pitch in are part of what make Sammamish such a safe, desirable place to call home.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.22
Property Crimes per 1,000: 5.52

Sammamish is the safest city in Washington 2015

2. Connell

The charming town of Connell remains in our top five for the second year, claiming the number two spot on our safe cities list. With only 40 total crimes reported for all of 2013, it’s easy to see why people love to call this vibrant, safe community home.

Connell is a place where you’ll find the whole city coming out to support the Connell High School Eagles as they take the football field or basketball court. In this town where everyone feels like an old friend, there’s a little something for everyone. From outdoor activities to hunting for treasures in the town’s many antique shops, you’ll never run out of things to do in Connell.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.52
Property Crimes per 1,000: 5.24

Connell is the second safest city in Washington 2015
Image: Connell Heritage Museum

3. DuPont

Jumping up the list from number five to third place on the SafeWise safe cities list, we see that the citizens of DuPont worked tirelessly to improve the lives of everyone in their growing community.

DuPont has decreased violent crime from 12 reported incidents to nine in 2013. Reports of property crime also decreased by seven incidents.

The town also adopted their first Open Spaces Plan to develop the parks and recreation throughout DuPont. The city’s proximity to the Puget Sound, nearby rivers, and grasslands makes DuPont not only one of the safest cities in Washington, but also one of the most beautiful.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.00
Property Crimes per 1,000: 6.55

Dupont is the third safest city in Washington 2015

4. Moxee

Nestled in the verdant Yakima Valley, Moxee makes its debut on our list this year. Known for the grapes and hops that grow abundantly in Moxee’s fertile soil, this close-knit city plays host every August to the Moxee Hop Festival. This festival offers a chance for neighbors to get together and celebrate the unique community in which they live.

It’s also a great example of how much residents care about Moxee. Proceeds from the festival go to support community projects, like a pool that was built in order to keep children from playing in dangerous irrigation canals. After 25 years, Moxee citzens have completely paid off the pool, and even raised enough money to expand park offerings to include a wading pool and outdoor kitchen. It’s not hard to see why Moxee is one of the safest, and most civically-minded, cities in the Evergreen State.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.55
Property Crimes per 1,000: 7.22

moxee is the 4th fafest city in washington 2015
Image: Stephen Curtin

5. Snoqualmie

Climbing the SafeWise safe cities list from number nine, Snoqualmie is quickly growing into one of the most desirable cities to live in Washington, as evidenced by the city’s almost 1,000 new residents between 2012 and 2013.

Snoqualmie made huge strides in community safety over the last few years, lowering reports of property crime from 141 to 90. The biggest improvements can be seen in reported burglaries, going from 28 to 17 and reported larceny, which went from 110 to 65. Combine these safe streets with Snoqualmie’s beautiful 270-foot waterfall and historic train depot, and you get a wonderful place to call home.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.25
Property Crimes per 1,000: 7.56

Safest cities in washington
Image: Rra63; CC BY-SA 3.0

6. Duvall

Duvall makes its second appearance on our list, thanks to an impressive record of only two violent crimes reported in 2013. And for the second year in a row, this town reported zero murders, rapes, and robberies.

Duvall’s excellent safety record and beautiful location in the Snoqualmie Valley made this small town an attractive option for busy professionals ready to take on a commute in exchange for a peaceful, rural home life.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.27
Property Crimes per 1,000: 7.89

Safest cities in washington
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7. Clyde Hill

Set in enveloping greenery and breathtaking mountain backdrops, Clyde Hill is one of Washington’s most picturesque towns. With beautiful surroundings, like Lake Washington, Mount Rainer, the Cascade Mountain Range, and Seattle, Clyde Hill has something for everyone and offers a unique mountain oasis for residents and visitors alike.

The crisp mountain air of this town must keep the citizens happy because Clyde Hill reported no murder, rape, motor vehicle theft, or arson. This safe city also boasts the lowest report of property crime on our list, with only 24 incidents reported in 2013.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.63
Property Crimes per 1,000: 7.62

Clyde hill is the seventh safest city in washington 2015
Image: City of Clyde Hill Facebook

8. Lynden

Jumping from number 12 to the eighth safest city in Washington, Lynden reduced their total reported crimes by 50 from 2012 to 2013. The most dramatic reduction was in incidents of larceny-theft, which went from 145 to 97 reported accounts. Lynden also made progress in violent crimes, reducing reports of murder to zero in 2013.

Not only is this charming community a safe place to raise a family, but it’s home to a fun-loving group of citizens who like to get together and enjoy one another and their city. Coming up in June is the annual Farmers Day Parade, where the streets fill with horses and covered wagons in honor of Lynden’s rich, agricultural history.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.70
Property Crimes per 1,000: 9.83

lynden is the 8th safest city in washington 2015
Image: City of Lynden Washington

9. Mattawa

The small city of Mattawa contains just over 4,500 residents and supports a large Latino population, who vigorously work to maintain the neighborly atmosphere on which Mattawa prides itself.

Mattawa has the second-lowest report of property crime on our list, with just 48 incidents reported in 2013. This rural town reported zero incidents of murder, rape, robbery, and arson – and only had nine reports of burglary. For active individuals working in the agricultural field, Mattawa could be a dream come true.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.66
Property Crimes per 1,000: 10.59

Safest cities in washington
Image: Williamborg; Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

10. Pullman

This active college town is named one of Washington’s safest cities for the second year in a row. Even with a robust college student population to keep track of, Pullman had just 27 incidents of violent crime reported in 2013, and there were absolutely no counts of murder.

But there’s more to Pullman than Washington State University. This picturesque town is rich in local landmarks and opportunities to enjoy the abundant, natural surroundings. In fact, there are more than 15 miles of bike and running paths where visitors and residents can breathe in the crisp air of Pullman’s 145 acres of green, open spaces.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.84
Property Crimes per 1,000: 10.65

Safest cities in washington
Image: Elbaz; CC BY-SA 3.0

11. West Richland

Located near the Columbia River, West Richland offers some of the best recreation opportunities in the state. From water skiing to golfing, West Richland boasts wide open spaces and a high quality of life for its almost 13,000 residents.

Between 2012 and 2013, West Richland has gained 500 new residents, but has only had one increase in reports of violent crime, and managed two fewer reports of property crime in 2013, according to the FBI Crime Data. In fact, they reported seven fewer burglaries in 2013 as well. West Richland maintains their neighborly community through open public forums, accessible action forms, and an active senior center.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.16
Property Crimes per 1,000: 10.69

Safest cities in washington
Image: Williamborg; Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

12. Ridgefield

Ridgefield makes its premiere as one of our top 40 safest cities this year. Remarkably, this small city had absolutely no reports of arson, murder, rape, or aggravated assault.

In addition to some of the safest streets in Washington, Ridgefield is home to over 5,000 acres of rolling hills and wildlife in the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors will likely see a variety of wild creatures, including white tail deer and Canadian geese. This is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors without having to sacrifice the amenities of a quaint, traditional Main Street district that features locally-owned boutiques and cafes.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.18
Property Crimes per 1,000: 12.16

Safest cities in washington
Image: SreeBot; Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

13. Liberty Lake

Liberty Lake is a fast-growing community centered on celebration. From the city’s renowned Winter Festival to their explosive Liberty Lake Days Festival, the almost 8,000 citizens of Liberty Lake know how to have a good time.

But this town’s appreciation for a good time goes hand-in-hand with their serious commitment to safety. With only three reports of violent crime and zero reported incidents of murder, robbery, and arson, Liberty Lake’s streets are not only celebratory, but also safe. In an effort to promote community safety, Liberty Lake works with statewide SCRAPS and S.C.O.P.E. programs to aid in animal adoption and criminal justice training.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.37
Property Crimes per 1,000: 12.03

Safest cities in washington
Image: Joe Mabel; Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

14. Steilacoom

The charming village of Steilacoom lands on our list for the second time. Since 2012, this safe city has been able to reduce overall property crimes from 75 reported incidents to 64. In addition, Steilacoom reported zero arsons and murders on the most recent FBI Crime Data report.

Thanks to the combined efforts of the local police and this community of concerned citizens, Steilacoom is a great place to settle down. Recently the police department added a GPS system to help locate lost children. And these civic-minded residents also came together to give a house to one of their own who serves as an Army Ranger and received the Medal of Honor.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 2.13
Property Crimes per 1,000: 10.49

15. Selah

Located in beautiful central Washington, Selah joins the SafeWise safe cities list for the first time with zero reports of violent crime in 2013. Selah reported zero murders, rapes, robberies, aggravated assaults, or arsons, which is something to be proud of. This town’s police department’s philosophy of community partnerships and comprehensive protection has clearly paid off.

In addition to secure streets, Selah has a lot to offer their community. Its proximity to Yakima River Canyon, Yakima Greenway, and White Pass Ski Area make Selah the ideal place for water sports, fishing, hunting, and mountain activities. Selah can not only give your family peace of mind, it can also give you plenty to do any time of the year.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.00
Property Crimes per 1,000: 13.69

16. Maple Valley

Centered on community connections and celebrating nature, Maple Valley is a safe, beautiful, friendly place to spend a long weekend or call home. This city appears on our list for the second time, thanks to their excellent record for keeping residents and visitors safe. In fact, you have a less than one in 1,000 chance of falling victim to a violent crime in this natural playground.

That reassurance helps everyone here take full advantage of the many hiking and biking trails along the Cedar River and leading to the city’s Lake Wilderness Park. And there are more than 40 acres to explore in the Lake Wilderness Arboretum, which is dedicated to preserving northwestern ecosystems and promoting horticultural science.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.60
Property Crimes per 1,000: 13.35

maple valley is the 16th safest city in Washington
Image: City of Maple Valley Facebook

17. Brier

This small, suburban town is located just 15 miles north of downtown Seattle. Brier is built with rural, wooden architecture that the town strives to maintain. In an effort to protect the wooded neighborhoods the Brier community worked hard to preserve, the Brier Police Department carries out a number of Block Watch initiatives to protect each and every resident.

Brier lowered their incidents of property crime from 97 to 86 reports between 2012 and 2013, with the biggest difference seen in their reports of larceny dropping from 58 to 40. For a truly rustic neighborhood with the benefits of being near a large city, Brier is the ideal place to be.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.47
Property Crimes per 1,000: 13.64

18. Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island is a family-friendly community situated in the midst of abundant cedars and firs, gentle bays, and distinctive rocky shores. In addition to loads of island charm, this impressive city has an equally impressive track record for minimizing crime and making sure residents feel safe in their island home.

In 2013, there were only 12 reported violent crimes, and none of those were robbery or murder – helping this quaint town secure a spot on our list two years in a row. And we think it’s worth noting that the citizens of Bainbridge Island are willing to jump in and help to keep their city safe and thriving. There are a number of community initiatives that contribute to economic growth, historic and natural preservation, supporting the arts, and taking care of their own.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.51
Property Crimes per 1,000: 14.49

Safest cities in washington
Image: FlickreviewR; CC by 2.0

19. Zillah

The smallest town on this year’s SafeWise safe cities in Washington list, Zillah is home to just over 3,000 residents. Zillah worked hard to increase the town’s safety over the last few years, and their efforts are clear in the 2013 FBI crime statistics.

Zillah lowered reports of property crime from 82 incidents to 43. From a combined effort between the police department and neighborly citizens, Zillah reduced reports of burglary by 15 incidents, larceny by 22, and motor vehicle theft by two incidents. This small town isn’t messing around when it comes it residents’ safety.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.98
Property Crimes per 1,000: 14.09

20. Mercer Island

This city of nearly 24,000 makes its second showing on our list. No doubt the fact that Mercer Island residents reported just eight violent crimes in 2013, three fewer than in 2012, helped them maintain their status as one of the safest places to live in Washington.

Mercer Island takes a proactive approach to community safety. The city recently made social media connectivity a top priority. Mercer Island expanded its social media presence as a way to both inform residents about community events and offer citizens an easy way to report suspicious activity, share crime awareness and prevention tips, and offer help to one another.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.33
Property Crimes per 1,000: 15.14

Safest cities in washington
Image: Dcoetzee; Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

21. Kenmore

Kenmore has a wall of trophies acknowledging the quality city that both government officials and residents worked to develop. Ranking number 21 on the SafeWise safe cities list is another achievement Kenmore can brag about.

Between 2012 and 2013, Kenmore managed to reduce violent crime by three reported incidents and property crime by 37 reported incidents, with the largest change seen in reports of larceny going from 211 to 172 in a single year. Combine these numbers with Kenmore’s award-winning businesses and highly-recognized school district and it’s easy to see why Kenmore is popular among growing families.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.65
Property Crimes per 1,000: 14.86

Safest cities in washington
Image: Quadell; Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

22. Black Diamond

Those who call Black Diamond home are proud of this warm, friendly city, which is making its debut appearance as one of Washington’s safest cities. Between 2012 and 2013, this tight-knit community reduced all incidents of crime from 72 to 67, eliminating reports of violent crime altogether.

Nestled among foothills and a close neighbor to the gorgeous Green River Gorge, this rural community is poised for growth. The city plan focuses on economic and residential development, looking to attract more residents to share their peaceful way of life. Being one of the safest places to live gives Black Diamond one more way to entice people looking for the right place to put down roots.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.00
Property Crimes per 1,000: 15.56

23. Montesano

Montesano is a community that readily celebrates the history of the Chehalis Valley. Visitors can make a stop at the Chehalis Valley Historical Museum or take the Historic Montesano Walking Tour through town. It’s impossible to visit this community without being impressed by the respect and love the locals have for their city.

Montesano reported zero violent crimes or cases of arson in 2013 and only reported 14 burglaries, according to the most recent FBI Crime Data. To continue preventing crime on Montesano streets, the police department focuses on community-oriented policing. The department has a number of youth-focused programs aimed at educating young people and engaging them in crime prevention, such as the Explorer Program. This program offers youth aged 16 to 20 the chance to participate in the Washington State Patrol Youth Academy and explore law enforcement as a career.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.00
Property Crimes per 1,000: 16.23

24. Granger

With only 56 total crimes reported in 2013, it’s easy to see why Granger nabbed a spot as one of the safest cities in Washington. This unique community had no murders, arsons, robberies, or aggravated assaults reported, according to the FBI’s most recent statistics.

Maybe it’s the many dinosaurs that dot the city’s streets that help scare off the bad guys. The dinosaurs were initially added to the cityscape to attract road trippers from across the state and the country. And it worked, because since the first dinosaur bore its teeth in the early ‘90s, there have been 29 more added. The city park restroom was even converted into a volcano to add to the prehistoric scene. Whether you’re looking for a safe place to call home, or a fun place to visit, Granger is a definite must-see.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.60
Property Crimes per 1,000: 16.29

Safest cities in washington
Image: Steven Pavlov; Attribution 3.0 Unported

25. Lake Forest Park

Lake Forest Park is a beautiful town located just north of Seattle. This community of just over 13,000 people is filled with vibrant, evergreen trees and the city works to keep the community green through a number of environmental efforts, such as diverting landfill waste and teaching sustainable gardening classes to the community.

In addition to their green efforts, the Lake Forest Park community is interested in crime prevention and assisting victims of crime. The police department adamantly publicizes their services for victims of domestic violence and cybercrimes and has an active reporting system that holds residents responsible for reporting crimes they see. For a community dedicated to conscientious living, check out Lake Forest Park.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.38
Property Crimes per 1,000: 18.87

26. Camas

Situated on the banks of the mighty Columbia River, Camas is one of Washington’s safest cities. For the second year running, there were no reported murders in Camas, and reports of property crimes were reduced from over 400 to 388. Burglaries showed the biggest change, with reports reduced from 90 in 2012 to 66 in 2013.

Camas benefitted from the addition of several high-tech companies that moved into the area, bringing additional jobs and economic security with them. Residents also have easy access to the thriving metropolis of nearby Portland, Oregon and the snowy slopes of Mount Hood. Camas offers a great, safe place to live, work, and play.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.67
Property Crimes per 1,000: 18.61

27. Battle Ground

Just a few miles from Portland, Oregon, Battle Ground maintains a quaint, small-town feeling while offering big city services to the residents. The Battle Ground Police Department recently started an active citizen reporting campaign, recognizing the important role the community plays in keeping their streets safe.

The campaign had a positive effect on the community, reducing reports of violent crime by 16 incidents, the largest difference seen in reports of assault going from 19 to 9 between 2012 and 2013. Battle Ground also reduced reports of property crime by 10 incidents, with a significant reduction in motor vehicle theft, from 31 incidents to 25. A safe community, small town charm, and big city attractions all help make Battle Ground a pretty great place to live.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.71
Property Crimes per 1,000: 19.34

28. Prosser

This bucolic community jumped from number 34 to number 28 on our safe cities list this year. Prosser’s combined reports of violent and property crime dropped from 168 to fewer than 120 between 2012 and 2013. These impressive results include no reports of murder or robbery.

Home to multiple wineries and close to recreation on the Columbia River, Prosser is making the most of its charming location. This community’s obvious commitment to crime prevention and safety makes it easy for residents and visitors to sit back and enjoy the many pleasures Prosser has to offer.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.54
Property Crimes per 1,000: 18.56

Safest cities in washington
Image: Alexrk2; Attribution 3.0 Unported

29. Medina

The small community of Medina is surrounded by Lake Washington and offers premier recreation activities in an idyllic evergreen background. With the second highest per-capita income in the state and the serene tranquility of the lake, it’s not surprising Bill Gates decided to call Medina home.

Medina maintains safe streets and a number of crime prevention programs to keep the community secure. The city reported only one violent crime, three vehicle thefts, and zero counts of arson, according to the most recent FBI Crime Data. One of the city’s keystone programs is its crisis clinic, which provides an array of services with operators that speak a combined 155 languages and have a database of over 13,000 health and human service providers. Medina offers the tranquility of a lake town with the attentive services of any big city.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.32
Property Crimes per 1,000: 20.02

30. Mill Creek

Mill Creek makes its second appearance on our list of safe Washington cities, and it looks like their crime prevention strategies have been in full force. Conscientious law enforcement efforts helped Mill Creek reduce violent crime from 34 reported incidents in 2012 to just 26 in 2013. And 2013 saw no reports of murder.

This golf course community continues to blend the finer things in life with family-friendly values and small-town charm. Residents can safely take advantage of the vast park and trail system that offers everyone the chance to appreciate the natural beauty and breathe in the crisp, mountain air.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.38
Property Crimes per 1,000: 20.31

Safest cities in washington
Image: Ekaune; Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

31. Newcastle

Newcastle climbs the SafeWise safe cities list from number 35 to number 31 this year. The city started an avid outreach program that goes into neighborhoods to share community service opportunities and crime prevention tactics.

This program is undoubtedly responsible for lower property crime rates across the board from 2012 to 2013. Newcastle reduced property crime by 65 reported incidents, with 43 fewer reports of burglary, 20 fewer reports of larceny, two fewer reports of motor vehicle theft, and one fewer reports of arson. Safe streets combined with bountiful outdoor recreation opportunities and quality employment opportunities make Newcastle an ideal place to live.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.09
Property Crimes per 1,000: 21.59

32. Washougal

This small community located near the Columbia River is set in scenic prairielands. Visitors entering Washougal can see towering Mount Hood behind the town and it signals the gateway to the Gorge. Washougal sits as an important historical city, located along the trail that Lewis and Clark followed as they explored the west. Today, the town stands as a popular location for travelers because of its cascading beauty.

Washougal had zero reports of murder, only five reports of burglary, and just one report of arson, according to the 2013 FBI Crime Data. For a town of almost 15,000 people, these numbers are impressive.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.96
Property Crimes per 1,000: 21.10

Safest cities in washington
Image: Jared Adams; Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

33. Algona

Algona is a small town that creates an active community through a number of family events throughout the year. Algona Days, the Kids Fishing Derby, and Bricks 4 Kidz are just a few of the community events that engage families and keep citizens active.

An engaged community is a safe community. Between 2012 and 2013, Algona reduced violent crime from two reported incidents to zero and reduced crimes of larceny from 56 to 42 reported incidents. This quaint suburban community is the perfect place to raise a family – full of fun and security.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.00
Property Crimes per 1,000: 23.37

Safest cities in washington
Image: jay8g; CC BY-SA 2.0

34. Pacific

Pacific moves up five spots this year to claim the number 34 spot on our list. Highlights in their safety progress include zero reports of murder and arson in 2013. Even though this small town grew from an agricultural settlement to a thriving community of nearly 7,000, it seems they still know how to look out for their own.

Locals enjoy the clear views of Mount Rainier easy access to fishing on the White River. In addition to abundant outdoor activities, Pacific prides itself on being a progressive, industrious city that has a lot to offer to professionals, small business owners, and families looking for a place they can be proud to call home.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.44
Property Crimes per 1,000: 22.28

Safest cities in washington
Image: Steven Pavlov; Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

35. Richland

The largest city on the SafeWise safe cities list, Richland is home to almost 52,500 people. The city’s population grew by over 2,000 residents between 2012 and 2013, but the city never let growing numbers affect its safe streets. Despite the jump in population, Richland still reduced reports of property crime by 103 incidents, helping it make our list for the second time.

Richland implemented a number of community services that helped reduce crime. Avid auto theft prevention awareness campaigns reduced motor vehicle thefts from 65 reported incidents in 2012 to only 35 in 2013. Other programs include identity theft and fraud prevention and crime resistant community living. For a metropolitan lifestyle with the close, safe community of a small town, Richland is the place to be.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.81
Property Crimes per 1,000: 22.24

Safest cities in washington
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36. Grandview

This safe city is nestled in the verdant Yakima Valley, where vineyards mark the landscape and wineries abound. Making its second appearance on our list, Grandview saw significant gains in public safety from 2012 to 2013. Overall, the total number of violent and property crimes reported went from 310 to 270.

Reports of violent crime were reduced from 33 in 2012 to just 19 2013, and there were no counts of murder reported at all. This is great news for those who call Grandview home, and those who flock to this friendly city each year for the Yakima Valley Fair and Rodeo.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.71
Property Crimes per 1,000: 22.71

37. Bothell

The city of Bothell is renovating. With a comprehensive downtown revitalization project and construction of a new city hall, Bothell is creating an attractive, modern city to match the town’s 35,000 lively residents.

Most notably, Bothell managed to reduce violent crime from 35 reported incidents in 2012 to only 18 in 2013, with zero reports of murder or rape in 2013. This suburban community also reduced reports of property crime from 893 to 846, with the most noticeable decline in reports of larceny, which were reduced by 50 incidents in 2013. Although the town is getting a facelift, Bothell’s great community spirit remains the same.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.51
Property Crimes per 1,000: 24.16

Safest cities in washington
Image: BokicaK; CC BY-SA 2.5

38. Issaquah

The artsy community of Issaquah makes sure its 33,000 residents can enjoy their creative pursuits with the peace of mind that comes from living in one of the safest cities in the state. This is Issaquah’s second year on our list, and their conscientious efforts limited violent crimes to just 21 for the whole of 2013. For a city with such a large population, that is a noteworthy accomplishment.

In addition to keeping residents safe, Issaquah is a community committed to constant improvement.

Currently, the downtown district is being revitalized to make sure “Olde Town” remains a vibrant community center for generations to come.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.62
Property Crimes per 1,000: 24.27

Safest cities in washington
Image: Joe Mabel; Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported

39. Oak Harbor

Located on the picturesque Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor is a calm community with some of the best water recreation found in Washington. From their historic downtown lined with quaint boutiques to the scenic marina, Oak Harbor is one of the most charming cities on the west coast.

Oak Harbor is also one of the safest. The city decreased both violent and property crime between 2012 and 2013. Violent crime was reduced by seven reported incidents and property crime reports decreased by 150. Oak Harbor’s picturesque scenery combined with its safe streets makes this community a wonderful place to be a part of.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 1.39
Property Crimes per 1,000: 23.60

40. Normandy Park

Rounding out our list of safe cities in Washington is the health-conscious city of Normandy Park. This is Normandy Park’s second time on our list, and they’ve made substantial progress from 2012 to 2013. They practically eliminated reports of violent crime, with only one reported in 2013, compared to nine the year before.

Property crime also saw improvements, including 13 fewer reports of burglary and 32 fewer counts of larceny-theft. Normandy Park works to foster an environment of wellness, with a strong commitment to keeping their city pedestrian-friendly. This community is focused on the health, wellness, and safety of all who call Normandy Park home.

Violent Crimes per 1,000: 0.15
Property Crimes per 1,000: 24.86

How safe is your home?

Wherever you live, feeling safe in your home can bring greater peace of mind and happiness. Whether your city made our list or not, we recommend adding extra security to your home with monitored security services provided by the nation’s leading home security providers.

Posted by Cary W Porter on
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