10 Safest Neighborhoods in Seattle

Updated On December 16, 2023

Seattle is known as the Emerald City.

It is the perfect hub for those seeking business and tech opportunities.

It’s a town that is surrounded by forests, mountains, and water.

The headquarters for Amazon and Microsoft are both located in Seattle.

But everything about Seattle isn’t all peaches and cream.

Compared to other cities in the United States, Seattle is known to be a lot more dangerous.

The violent crime rate in Seattle is 729 per 100,000.

The property crime rate is 5,784 per 100,000 residents.

With that being said, if you’re on the hunt for the safest neighborhoods in Seattle, you’ve come to the right place.

This guide will list the top 10 safest neighborhoods in Seattle.

Seattle
Seattle

10 Safest Neighborhoods in Seattle

1. Hawthrone Hills

Hawthrone Hills is known as the safest neighborhood in Seattle and has a population of 1,721

. The violent crime rate in Hawthorne Hills is 23 per 100,000 residents.

Hawthrone Hills is commonly referred to as a bedroom community for those who work at the University of Washington.

In Hawthorne Hills, you’ll find plenty of breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains and Lake Washington.

Hawthrone Hills is known for having the lowest crime rate in Seattle.

The average household income in Hawthrone Hills is $111,671, which is the second-highest in the city.

2. Broadmoor

Broadmoor is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Seattle.

It’s a gated-in community with a population of about 1,508.

Crime is nearly non-existent in Broadmoor.

The violent crime rate is 26 per 100,000 residents.

The property crime rate is 2,059 crimes per 100,000 residents.

Broadmoor is infamous for its easy access to Washington Park’s hiking trails and amazing, picture-perfect homes.

For those who enjoy golfing, you’ll be happy to know that there’s a 115-acre golf course located right in the neighborhood.

It’s one of the largest in the entire city.

3. Arbor Heights

Coming in at number three on the list of the top 10 safest neighborhoods in Seattle is Arbor Heights.

It is located just west of the city, with a population of 5,176 people.

The violent crime rate is 84 per 100,000 residents, while the property crime rate is 2,016 per 100,000 residents.

The majority of Arbor Heights is residential, which means there aren’t any businesses located in the neighborhood.

Overall, the crime rate in Arbor Heights is 19% below the city’s average.

4. Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge has a population of 1,877 people and is located northwest of downtown Seattle.

The violent crime rate in Blue Ridge is 84 per 100,000 residents.

It’s no wonder it’s one of the safest neighborhoods in the entire city.

Blue Ridge also has no business district and is primarily considered to be mainly residential.

Blue Ridge is located close to Golden Gardens Park.

So, if you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, you’ll enjoy living in Blue Ridge.

5. Matthews Beach

Matthews Beach is another safe neighborhood in Seattle, with a total of 5,195 people living here.

The violent crime rate is 99 per 100,000 residents.

It is conveniently located only a couple of miles from the University of Washington.

It is also close to downtown Seattle.

Overall, Matthews Beach is 80% safer than Washington’s average.

The average median income for residents living here is relatively high.

The neighborhood is full of amazing luxury homes.

6. North Beach

North Beach is located close to Blue Ridge, mentioned earlier on the list of the safest neighborhoods in Seattle.

It’s also another extremely safe location, with a population of 2,193.

The violent crime rate is 162 per 100,000 residents.

Residents living here describe North Beach as small and quiet.

There are also some amazing views of Puget Sound that you’ll find throughout the neighborhood.

You’ll also find easy access to Golden Gardens Park.

From there, you will be able to access Shilshole and various beaches located at Meadow Point.

7. View Ridge

Just northeast of Seattle is yet another safe neighborhood, View Ridge.

The population of View Ridge is 4,205.

The crime rate is 150 per 100,000 residents.

The property crime rate is 1,880 per 100,000 residents.

Overall, View Ridge is a relatively quiet community with a suburban feel.

You’ll also find views of Mount Rainier, Lake Washington, and the Cascade Range through View Ridge.

8. Laurelhurst

Also making the list of the safest neighborhoods in Seattle is Laurelhurst.

The population of Lauarelhurst is 4,159.

The violent crime rate is 180 per 100,000 residents.

Here in Laurelhurst, you’ll find plenty of views of Union Bay and Lake Washington.

There are numerous high-quality schools and plenty of businesses located in Laurelhurst.

The neighborhood also offers top-notch restaurants.

The average cost of a home in Laurelhurst is $1,649,00.

While this is double the average in the city, it’s worth it.

9. Wedgwood

Wedgwood is also located just northeast of Seattle and is voted as one of the safest locations to live.

Wedgwood has a population of 10,290.

The violent crime rate is 176 per 100,000 residents.

The property crime rate in Wedgwood is 1,866 per 100,000 residents.

Overall, the people living in Wedgwood are middle-class.

The neighborhood is located just six miles from downtown Seattle and is close to the University of Washington.

Tourists and residents living here can take advantage of a fantastic shopping experience just along 35th Avenue NE.

There are plenty of music venues and bars.

10. Bryant

Finally, on the list of the safest neighborhoods in Seattle is Bryant.

The population of Bryant is 5,241.

The crime rate is 278 per 100,000 residents.

Bryant is, for the most part, residential.

There are only several businesses located in the area.

Residents living in Bryant can enjoy some amazing restaurants and quality shops.

It’s ideal for families, considering the safety rating.

It’s also, overall, a quiet neighborhood.

Seattle
Seattle

5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Seattle

Here is a list of five safety tips to keep in mind when traveling to Seattle.

Create a Plan to Get Home

This first tip is critical.

When traveling to Seattle, you’ll always want to ensure that you have a plan to get home or back to your hotel.

While you’re out, whether you’re in areas with a high crime rate or not, be sure to call a taxi or an Uber to get back to your hotel.

The bus or light rail are also options.

The goal is to never look as if you’re lost, so as not to become an easy target.

Avoid Leaving Valuables in Your Car

Whether it’s your car or a rental car, you should never leave valuables inside and unattended.

Property crime occurs more than any other type of crime in Seattle.

Make sure that you keep your doors locked and never leave anything out.

Even though a crime may still occur, you won’t have anything valuable inside for the thieves to take.

Avoid Unsafe Areas at Night

Never hang out in unsafe areas at night, especially if you’re by yourself.

Take the necessary precautions as if you were in any other location.

Avoid walking through alleys or dark streets.

Always keep your head on a swivel, especially when you’re in downtown Seattle and surrounding areas.

Trust Your Gut Instincts

If a person approaches you and tries to distract you or attempts to give you something, always trust your instincts.

Many people here won’t bother you, but you should remain alert.

If a person does try to get your attention, chances are they are up to no good.

Be Careful While Hiking

If you plan on hiking while traveling in Seattle, be sure that you’re fully prepared.

You must research the trails ahead of time to avoid danger while you’re out there.

Make sure that you have a map, a first-aid kit, and a way to call for help in case of an emergency.

Seattle Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Seattle Safety Review

Safety Index:
55
  • OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
  • TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
  • PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
  • NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
  • MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
  • TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
  • SCAMS RISK: LOW
  • WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Frequently Asked Questions

Currently, is Seattle a dangerous city?

As of now, Seattle isn’t too dangerous.

Many people visiting here report feeling safe while checking out attractions during the day.

While the crime rate in Seattle has increased over the past several years, it’s mainly property crime.

Violent crimes do occur in Seattle, but not at the same rate as property crimes.

Even still, tourists should take the necessary precautions, travel in groups, and stay away from dangerous areas.

What are the most dangerous neighborhoods in Seattle?

Here is a list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Seattle, so you know how to avoid them when traveling here:

  • Atlantic
  • Haller Lake
  • Belltown
  • South Lake Union
  • First Hill
  • Sand Point
  • Northgate
  • Lower Queen Anne

Is Seattle a safe city to travel to with kids?

Typically speaking, Seattle is safe to travel to if you have kids.

Regarding safety in Seattle, many people report feeling extremely safe here compared to other metro cities in the country.

Again, you should still practice extra caution.

For instance, you shouldn’t take your toddler to downtown Seattle for dinner.

It is much safer to explore the city during the day, as Seattle offers many family-friendly attractions.

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