Spokane County in Washington is inhabited by over half a million residents and encompasses a variety of neighborhoods, spanning from urban to rural, affluent to low-income. Nevertheless, safety levels differ across these areas, with some experiencing higher rates of violent crime than others.
This article delves into the five neighborhoods deemed the most dangerous in Spokane County. The assessment is based on the reported number of violent crimes per 100,000 people, as provided by AreaVibes.
| Neighborhood | Population | Median Income | Violent Crime Rate |
| West Central | 7,200 | $32,000 | 1,838 |
| Hillyard | 6,100 | $29,000 | 1,278 |
| Whitman | 3,500 | $35,000 | 1,262 |
| Bemiss | 7,600 | $36,000 | 1,084 |
| Nevadalidgerwood | 27,600 | $41,000 | 1,026 |
West Central
This district, situated to the west of downtown Spokane, is home to approximately 7,200 residents, with a median household income of $32,000.
However, it faces significant challenges as it holds the highest violent crime rate in the county, with 1,838 crimes per 100,000 people—173% higher than the average for Spokane. The area has a longstanding history of poverty, drug abuse, and gang activity, earning it the colloquial nickname “Felony Flats” among locals.
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Hillyard
Situated in northeast Spokane, this neighborhood was formerly an independent community until its integration into Spokane in 1924. Currently, it boasts a population of around 6,100 residents and a median household income of $29,000.
However, it faces challenges, including the second-highest violent crime rate in the county, tallying 1,278 crimes per 100,000 people—90% higher than the Spokane average. Issues such as blight, vandalism, and theft are prevalent, leading the city to designate it as a “revitalization area.”
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Whitman
This area in southeast Spokane is home to approximately 3,500 residents, with a median household income of $35,000. However, it faces challenges, including the third-highest violent crime rate in the county, standing at 1,262 crimes per 100,000 people, which is 88% higher than the Spokane average.
Notably, the neighborhood has a significant number of registered sex offenders and a low homeownership rate of 37%.
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Bemiss
This area in northeast Spokane houses approximately 7,600 residents and boasts a median household income of $36,000. Regrettably, it holds the fourth-highest violent crime rate in the county, with 1,084 crimes per 100,000 people, surpassing the Spokane average by 61%.
Primarily residential, the neighborhood also features commercial and industrial zones. However, it faces challenges such as a 26% poverty rate and a subpar graduation rate of 77%.
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Nevadalidgerwood
This area in north Spokane is home to approximately 27,600 residents, with a median household income of $41,000. Despite being one of the largest and most diverse neighborhoods in the city, it faces challenges such as having some of the oldest and most deteriorated housing.
Additionally, it has a high unemployment rate of 10% and a low college attainment rate of 16%. Furthermore, it ranks fifth in the county for violent crime, with 1,026 crimes per 100,000 people, surpassing the Spokane average by 53%.
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To Conclude
Here are the top five riskiest neighborhoods in Spokane County, Washington, based on the most recent available data. It’s crucial to understand that crime rates fluctuate annually and within specific areas. Additionally, each neighborhood possesses positive aspects and initiatives not captured by these statistics.
Despite challenges, residents in these communities show resilience and actively strive to overcome obstacles. Community-driven initiatives, revitalization projects, and focused programs addressing issues like poverty, gang violence, and limited opportunities are essential for creating a safer environment across Spokane County.
