Seattle is a thriving, varied city well-known for its famous landmarks, tech sector, and coffee culture. However, not every area of the city is equally enjoyable and safe.
Crime, poverty, and social issues are more prevalent in some communities than in others. Based on the most recent facts and statistics, we will examine the top five riskiest neighborhoods in Seattle in this post.
| Neighborhood | Median Home Value | Median Income | Unemployment Rate | Poverty Rate | Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000) | Property Crime Rate (per 100,000) |
| South Park | $407,750 | $56,829 | 6.30% | 28.90% | 649 | 8,385 |
| International District | $480,100 | $49,002 | 4.50% | 25.40% | 890 | 6,925 |
| Northgate | $474,300 | $60,484 | 5.90% | 18.90% | 545 | 7,075 |
| Sand Point | $476,600 | $61,250 | 4.20% | 14.70% | 538 | 6,975 |
| Pioneer Square | $480,100 | $59,167 | 4.70% | 23.60% | 838 | 6,825 |
South Park
South Park, situated in the southern part of Seattle and separated from the city’s airport by the Duwamish Waterway, is a small neighborhood with a predominantly Hispanic and Asian population of around 3,730 people.
The area exhibits the lowest median home value at $407,750 and the second-lowest median income at $56,829 within the city. Additionally, it reports the highest unemployment rate (6.3%) and the greatest poverty rate (28.9%) among all neighborhoods in Seattle.
South Park’s crime statistics reveal a violent crime rate of 649 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 8,385 incidents per 100,000 residents.
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International District
The central part of Seattle, commonly known as the International District or Chinatown, holds historical and cultural significance. The area is home to approximately 6,935 people, with a predominant population of Asians and whites. Recent census data indicates that the International District ranks as the second least favorable neighborhood in Seattle.
This neighborhood exhibits the lowest median income, standing at $49,002, and the second-highest poverty rate at 25.4% in the city. Additionally, it boasts the lowest homeownership rate (16.9%) and the highest rent burden (52.9%) compared to other neighborhoods in Seattle.
When it comes to safety, the International District faces challenges, with a violent crime rate of 890 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 6,925 per 100,000 residents.
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Northgate
Northgate, situated in the northern region of Seattle near the boundary with Shoreline, is a sizable neighborhood with a population of around 30,536 individuals, predominantly white and Asian. It ranks as the third least favorable neighborhood in Seattle based on the latest census data.
The area boasts the third lowest median home value at $474,300 and the fourth lowest median income at $60,484 within the city. Furthermore, it exhibits the third highest unemployment rate at 5.9% and the fourth highest poverty rate at 18.9% among Seattle’s neighborhoods.
In terms of safety, Northgate records a violent crime rate of 545 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 7,075 per 100,000 residents.
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Sand Point
Sand Point, situated in the northeast part of Seattle along Lake Washington, is a compact neighborhood with approximately 6,501 residents, predominantly of white and Asian backgrounds.
As per the latest census data, Sand Point ranks as the fourth least favorable neighborhood in Seattle. It holds the fourth position for the lowest median home value at $476,600 and the fifth lowest median income at $61,250 within the city.
Additionally, Sand Point exhibits the fourth lowest homeownership rate at 32.9% and the third highest rent burden at 48.8% among Seattle neighborhoods. The neighborhood faces a violent crime rate of 538 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 6,975 incidents per 100,000 residents.
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Pioneer Square
Pioneer Square, situated in the southern part of downtown Seattle, is a historically rich and artistic neighborhood. With a population of approximately 6,757 people, the community is predominantly composed of individuals from white and black ethnic backgrounds.
However, despite its cultural vibrancy, Pioneer Square ranks as the fifth-worst neighborhood in Seattle based on the latest census data. The area displays the fifth lowest median home value at $480,100 and the third lowest median income at $59,167 within the city.
Additionally, Pioneer Square exhibits the second lowest homeownership rate at 18.9% and the highest rent burden at 53.8% among all Seattle neighborhoods. In terms of safety, Pioneer Square faces a violent crime rate of 838 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 6,825 incidents per 100,000 residents.
To Conclude
It’s crucial to bear in mind that each community possesses its own unique strengths and stories. Categorizing entire neighborhoods as “risky” can be misleading and contribute to negative stereotypes.
Rather than exclusively concentrating on risk, we should recognize the intricate realities at play and strive for solutions that address the root causes of these issues.
By collaborating, we can establish a more equitable and vibrant Seattle where all residents feel safe, supported, and have the opportunity to thrive.
Keep in mind, statistics provide a snapshot, but communities are dynamic ecosystems with significant potential for positive change. Let’s emphasize fostering resilience, constructing bridges, and amplifying the voices of those who need it the most.
