Crime poses a significant challenge impacting numerous communities throughout the United States. While certain areas enjoy relative safety and tranquility, others grapple with elevated levels of violence and property crimes.
Here, we will concentrate on one of Washington state’s most perilous counties: Grays Harbor County. I’ll pinpoint the top five riskiest neighborhoods in this county, drawing from the crime per capita data of 2019.
| Neighborhood | Crime Rate (per 1,000) | Violent Crime Rate (per 1,000) | Property Crime Rate (per 1,000) |
| Aberdeen | 96.85 | 11.36 | 85 |
| Hoquiam | 75.67 | 10 | 66 |
| Cosmopolis | 64.72 | 8.54 | 56 |
| Oakville | 60.63 | 8 | 53 |
| Montesano | 55.76 | 7.28 | 48.48 |
Aberdeen
This city, boasting a population of around 16,000, holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest crime rate in the county, tallying up to 96.85 crimes per 1,000 residents.
Additionally, it tops the charts for both violent crime (11.36) and property crime (85.49) rates in the county. Situated at the mouth of the Chehalis River, where it meets the Pacific Ocean, Aberdeen is the largest city in Grays Harbor County.
Known as the “Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula” and the “Birthplace of Grunge Music,” Aberdeen takes pride in being the hometown of Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain. The city features a historic downtown district, a waterfront park, a museum of history, and a cultural center.
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Hoquiam
This city ranks second highest in the county for its crime rate, with 75.67 crimes per 1,000 residents. It also holds the second-highest rates of violent crime (9.67) and property crime (66) in the county.
Hoquiam is located next to Aberdeen, boasting a population of around 8,000. Positioned along the Chehalis River, it has a rich history rooted in logging and fishing. Hoquiam features a picturesque riverfront, a historic theater, a wildlife refuge, and a castle-like mansion open for tours.
Throughout the year, Hoquiam hosts various festivals, including the Loggers’ Playday, the Shorebird Festival, and the Sasquatch Summit.
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Cosmopolis
This city ranks third in the county for its crime rate, with 64.72 crimes per 1,000 residents. It also holds the third-highest rates of violent crime (8.54) and property crime (56.18) in the county.
Cosmopolis, a small town with approximately 1,600 residents, is situated south of Aberdeen and Hoquiam. Founded in 1854, it stands as the oldest town in Grays Harbor County.
Despite its crime statistics, Cosmopolis boasts a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere. The town features a community park, a library, and a golf course. Additionally, Cosmopolis is known for its pulp mill, serving as the primary employer in the area.
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Oakville
This city ranks fourth in the county for its crime rate, recording 60.63 crimes per 1,000 residents. Additionally, it holds the fourth highest rates for both violent crime (7.88) and property crime (52.75) in the county.
Oakville, a rural town with approximately 700 residents, is situated to the east of Aberdeen and Elma. Surrounded by farms, forests, and wetlands, Oakville boasts a rich Native American heritage.
The town features a tribal center, a museum, a casino, and a rodeo arena. Oakville is renowned for its annual Acorn Festival, dedicated to celebrating oak trees and the acorns used in food and crafts.
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Montesano
This city ranks fifth in the county for its crime rate, registering 55.76 crimes per 1,000 residents. It also holds the fifth position for both violent crime (7.28) and property crime (48.48) rates in the county.
Montesano serves as the county seat for Grays Harbor County, boasting a population of around 4,000. Situated to the east of Aberdeen and Cosmopolis, Montesano is positioned along the Wynoochee River.
The city features a delightful downtown area adorned with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. Additionally, Montesano is equipped with amenities like a courthouse, library, museum, and a park. It enjoys proximity to various outdoor attractions, including Lake Sylvia, Schafer State Park, and the Olympic National Forest.
To Conclude
Recognizing the limits of these figures is crucial when determining Grays Harbor County’s top five riskiest communities based on crime data. Every community has an own personality, background, and set of difficulties.
Steer clear of stereotypes and generalizations. The positive qualities of these areas, each with its own rich history, cultural offers, and scenic beauty, should not be overshadowed by the insights provided by crime rates.
Addressing the underlying causes of crime, making investments in community services, and encouraging cooperation between local law enforcement and communities are all crucial for promoting a safer and livelier Grays Harbor County. Creating positive change requires an understanding of the complexities that lie beyond the numbers.
Recall that numbers are just beginning points, not final statements. To go forward in a positive and meaningful way, it is imperative to engage with these communities and gain a knowledge of their unique stories.
