List of the Top 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Seattle With Highest Crime Rate (2023)

Seattle is renowned for its metropolitan vibe, diverse culinary scene, and iconic cultural attractions. Yet, like many urban areas, it struggles with crime, particularly in specific neighbourhoods that are notoriously dangerous. So, if you want to stay informed about the riskiest parts of Seattle, keep reading to learn about the top ten areas to avoid.

Seattle is a city of great size and diversity, prompting many to question its safety. Although specific neighbourhoods are considered safe, Seattle has a crime rate 134% higher than the national average. The high crime rate in Seattle can be primarily attributed to drug use and homelessness-related issues.

Seattle has some neighbourhoods that have higher crime rates than others. If you’re looking to avoid crime, knowing which areas to be cautious in is essential. Here are some of the worst neighbourhoods in Seattle regarding crime rates.

10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods

1. Belltown

Belltown has earned a notorious reputation as Seattle’s most dangerous neighbourhood. Despite being one of the cheapest areas to live in, the high rate of violent crimes is a significant concern for its residents. Home to over 10,000 people, Belltown’s crime rate is a staggering 480% higher than the national average. The neighbourhood’s violent crime statistics, including assaults, robberies, and homicides, are also alarmingly high. Belltown’s affordable housing comes at a steep cost to the safety of its residents.

2. Northgate

The safety of Northgate, a neighbourhood in north Seattle, is a significant concern due to its high crime rate. With a population of 4,283, this area’s crime rate is 414% higher than the national average, making it one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Seattle. The prevalence of drug use in the area is the main cause of the high crime rate, leading to increased theft. Additionally, violent crimes such as assaults and robberies are common occurrences in this neighborhood.

3. South Lake Union 

The corporate offices of Google and Amazon may be situated in South Lake Union, but it’s not a safe neighbourhood to reside in. With a crime rate that’s 350% higher than the national average, the area has a staggering 10,648 crimes per 100,000 people. While violent crime is a concern, it’s mostly property theft and break-ins that occur. It’s even more unsafe to be alone at night, so it’s best to avoid walking alone in this neighbourhood.

4. Atlantic

The Central District of Seattle is home to Atlantic, a community with a population of 5,133. Unfortunately, the total crime rate in the Atlantic is relatively high, with 10,612 incidents per 100,000 people. This means that residents have a 1 in 10 chance of falling victim to some form of crime. Despite these concerning statistics, Atlantic remains one of the more costly areas to live in Seattle, with a median home price of $409,783.

5. Sand Point

Living in Sand Point, Seattle, can be risky as the neighbourhood has a high crime rate of 389% higher than the national average. Despite its seemingly safe appearance, Sand Point can be deceiving. The violent crime rate in this area is alarmingly high at 2,862 per 100,000 people, making it one of the city’s most unsafe places to live.

6. Capitol Hill

With a population of 37,489, Capitol Hill is one of the city’s most prominent neighbourhoods. This bustling Seattle destination attracts tourists, who flock to its diverse restaurants, nightclubs, and bars. However, the neighborhood’s crime rate exceeds the national average by 241%. While property crime is the most common offence, residents typically feel secure in their surroundings.

7. Lower Queen Anne 

Lower Queen Anne is notorious for its high crime rates, particularly concerning theft and property damage. Incidents of shoplifting, looting, car theft, and home invasions plague the neighbourhood. In addition, violent crimes such as assault and robbery are sadly all too common in this area. Unfortunately, residents of Lower Queen Anne are twice as likely as the national average to fall prey to any crime.

8. Haller Lake

Located in north central Seattle, Haller Lake is a neighbourhood that surrounds a small lake and is home to over 8,500 residents. Unfortunately, this area is considered one of the more dangerous neighbourhoods in Seattle due to the high incidence of property crimes. Property crime rate is almost eight times higher than violent crime, with theft, drug use, robbery, and burglary being significant issues in the area. While Haller Lake is predominantly a working-class and middle-class neighbourhood, it still has a high cost of living like many other neighbourhoods in Seattle.

9. Central District Neighborhood

The Central District, located in Seattle, is known for its high crime rate and is considered one of the most violent neighbourhoods in the area. With a population of 16,895, the crime rate in this neighbourhood is 156% higher than the national average. In Central District, petty theft, drug use, and robberies are common occurrences. The area is also affected by homelessness, making it particularly challenging for residents. If you find yourself in this part of the city, it is crucial to exercise caution.

10. First Hill

The neighbourhood of First Hill is home to approximately 12,112 people, but unfortunately, it also has a high violent crime rate of 1,787 incidents per 100,000 residents. Despite its reputation for being one of Seattle’s priciest areas with exorbitant rent, it remains one of the most dangerous places to live. Residents often experience theft and assault, and leaving valuables in your car is a surefire way to have them stolen. However, First Hill does have a redeeming quality in its excellent school district, which attracts many families who commute into the area.

Also Read:

• List of the Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Pennsylvania 
• List Of Top 9 Most Dangerous Cities in Virginia 
• The Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Georgia
• Top 9 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Washington DC