seattle tourist safety

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Home » North America » Seattle

Is Seattle SAFE for Travel? (2024 • Insider Tips)

Like most major U.S cities, Seattle is safe . There is a low chance of you becoming a victim of crime, road accident, or random act of god.

Unfortunately, whilst you are unlikely to encounter any issues,  you shouldn’t travel anywhere believing you are impervious to misfortune. Life happens, and whilst unlikely, you can end up in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Seattle has a high crime rate. Most infringements that do occur are non-violent, but it is still worth taking sensible precautions to dodge trouble, including choosing a safe place to stay and evading sketchy areas.

Remember, the best way to avoid disaster is to avoid putting yourself in disastrous positions!

So, is Seattle safe for travel ? Whether you want the longform answer, or if you’re just skimming through for a few tips, you’ll find all the information you need to smooth out your adventure right here!

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Seattle Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Seattle.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated December 2023

Is Seattle Safe to Visit Right Now?

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The short answer is yes, travelling to Seattle is safe ! Seattle received around 33.9 million visitors last 2022 according to an official press release . With the steady increase of tourist they definitely had a problem free stay.

Known as the “Emerald City”, Seattle is the most populous municipality in Washington state. Only 725,000 people live here, but the city attracts millions of visitors each year. With such a vast contingent of temporary residents, accidents and problems are bound to arise, but you definitely should not be put off by this!

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Seattle’s crime rate is slightly higher than the national average, which is why you probably shouldn’t go wandering around by yourself after dark. Whilst becoming the subject of a violent crime is unlikely, you should be aware that flashing expensive possessions can make you a target for theft. Gang violence is negligible, but you should be aware that it exists.

Homelessness is an issue that is being addressed across the city, but there are areas where it is still rife. Take care to avoid the so-called “Jungle” (formally the East Duwamish Greenbelt ), which is home to large homeless encampments.

There is an earthquake/natural disaster risk when you visit Seattle, but again, the chances of this impacting your time here are negligible.

Whilst it’s clear that Seattle has its issues, the overall consensus is that Seattle is a very safe city. Yes, there may be some unsafe neighbourhoods, but you shouldn’t face any problems during your visit. If you do, the Seattle police department will be happy to help you out. As far as we know, there is nothing pressing that should discourage you from travelling to this awesome city!

Check out our detailed where to stay guide for Seattle so you can start your trip right!

The statistically safest neighbourhoods are Hawthorne Hills , Blue Ridge , and North Beach . However, these are all residential districts a significant distance away from tourist attractions. On your trip, it is still perfectly safe (and much more interesting) to stay in areas that are closer to the action! These are the top places to stay in Seattle.

• Waterfront : Waterfront is compact, and can easily be explored on foot. It’s known to be super family-friendly, which also makes it one of the safest neighbourhoods in Seattle. In addition to its central location, Waterfront is the hub of Seattle’s transportation system. With buses, trains, ferries and more, you can easily explore all corners of the city.
• Capitol Hill : Capitol Hill is by far the coolest neighbourhood in Seattle. Located north of Downtown, this central district boasts a diverse, young, and friendly atmosphere. Capitol Hill is packed with nightclubs, bars and cafes, perfect for getting in touch with the fun side of the city. As Seattle’s music hub, whether you’re into pop, trance, alternative, or the city’s spotlight grunge, there’ll be something to get you hyped!
• Queen Anne : Queen Anne is a haven for sightseers and culture vultures. This centrally located neighbourhood is home to Seattle’s most iconic landmarks and attractions . Notable Queen Anne attractions include the Seattle Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture, the Seattle Monorail, the Children’s Museum and Discovery Park.

Unsafe areas in Seattle

Whilst you will be hard-pressed to get into trouble during the day, parts of Seattle (especially within the metropolitan areas of Chinatown, Belltown and Georgetown ) do have higher crime rates. This doesn’t mean you should avoid these areas, but definitely exercise extra caution at night just to be sure..

A recent poll showed areas of the city in which Seattle residents don’t feel safe.

• Pike and Pine Street:  While touristy and safe during the day, these streets are known for violent crime – especially at night time
• East Duwamish Greenbelt : South of Dearborn Street,  all the way to  Yesler Way (near the I-5 and I-90 Interchange), is where you’ll find “The Jungle”; with its sizeable homeless camp, it’s not a nice place to find yourself at any time of the day.
• Between Blanchard and Bell: parts of Belltown  are known for drugs, robbery, and assault
• The road that runs between  Lake Washington  and  Puget Sound , on the I-5, has been the scene of homicides and robberies as well as assaults
• M L King Jr. Way all the way to the   South Boeing Access Road : where you’ll find issues surrounding violent crime (high crime statistics)

Keeping your money safe in Seattle

 One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Seattle is one of the safest cities in the US. People here are pretty chilled (and reserved) but are, basically, friendly. There’s a cool alternative scene here, a huge LGBT community, and a lot of different races living together. While all of this sounds pretty cool, there are still a couple of things you need to be careful with. We’ve got a few tips…

• Don’t walk around with large sums of money  – if someone sees a big wad of cash every time you pay for something, you’ll be more of a target.
• Photocopy your passport  – and keep your passport safely locked away. It’s not worth the headache of losing that…
• Stay somewhere with secure, lockable doors  – and always make sure you lock your door when you head out for the day.
• Don’t leave your bag(s) unattended anywhere – it could very easily go missing.
• Keep belongings close to you  – around tourist sights and on public transport. Here’s where you’re most likely to encounter a pickpocket. Wear a money belt to hide your cash.
• Know about distraction techniques – over-friendly strangers, someone bumping into you, dropping something in front of you – often a precursor to petty crime.
• Be aware of your surroundings  – be vigilant; know what’s going on around you; don’t be oblivious to shady characters.
• Walk with purpose – looking like a lost tourist is just going to make you stand out like a lost tourist – and an easy target.
• Ask for directions if you’re lost  – but ask someone official: a police officer, a bus driver, someone like that.
• Careful when withdrawing money from ATMs  – take note of who’s around you, who’s watching, and make sure the machine itself hasn’t been tampered with.
• Don’t look flashy  – especially at tourist sights, it will attract the wrong sort of attention.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Avoid giving money to panhandlers  – It’s up to you, of course, but the Seattle police department advises against it. If someone gets aggressive or intimidating, cross the street, and find a police officer to report the incident.
• It’s legal to buy marijuana  – from licensed places if you’re over 21. Know your limits though…
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• And don’t drive when you’re high  – it’s illegal and unsafe.
• Don’t take shortcuts at night – stick to well-lit, busy streets, even if it’s longer to walk.
• Get yourself a sim card   – you can get around without worry, find nearby food and drink, and call people. All the benefits.
• Notify people if you head into the mountains – make sure you check in; don’t go off-grid.
• And be prepared – the landscape and weather can get pretty drastic out there.

So that’s it. Basically, it’s all about using your common sense when travelling . Seattle is the sort of place where most likely, YOU will be the one to put yourself in danger – travel smart and you’ll be fine!

Seattle is home to some great places for solo travellers . Solo travelling is super rewarding, and getting to see the world at your own pace makes a great change from group travel. Then there’s other stuff – like having to do everything by yourself, challenging yourself, and overcoming tough obstacles that can make or break a trip.

We’re here to help with a few cherry-picked tips for solo travel in Seattle!

• Finding a good place to stay in Seattle is where you should start. Choose somewhere that will suit you, in a decent, non-sketchy area that’s close to stuff you want to see and do. It goes without saying that you should read reviews to find somewhere that other solo travellers have recommended.
• Seattle has its fair share of great social hostels . These are, obviously, somewhere you can get to know other travellers who are doing what you’re doing.
• Know what “Seattle freeze” is. It’s a reputation for Seattle residents not being very open or friendly to strangers. Don’t let that put you off though. People are welcoming and kind and won’t hesitate to help you out. That said, you may have to initiate the contact, so get your best conversation starters ready!
• Get yourself booked on a tour.  A walking tour, a food tour, a day trip to somewhere like  Rainier . The likelihood is you’ll meet some people, if not for the day, then maybe even a new mate.
• Walk around the city! Seattle is a super walkable city – being by yourself shouldn’t put you off having a stroll. You can walk along the waterfront, Green Lake  in the north of Seattle, or even  Broadway  up on  Capitol Hill  – which is where you’ll find the LGBT community. Basically, it’s all fair game; just heighten your awareness after dark.
• Don’t ghost your friends and family. Tell them if you’re going out for dinner, or if you’re on a day trip, update them about the hostel you’re staying in, what you’ve seen – anything! It’s nice, keeps you sane, and safe  too.
• Keep an eye on your money and bank cards.  You may want to stash them in different places. Trust us: having everything in one bag is a nightmare if that bag goes missing. So spread it around.
• Don’t pack too much . Since it’s a city, one bag will probably do you fine anyway. Having loads of stuff is not a good look in a city – plus you end up feeling pretty out of place lugging a load of baggage around when no one else is.
• Ask at the reception for  advice on the local area.  A cool bar to have a few drinks at, a restaurant recommendation, or just a hidden gem of sight that they might know of. It’s here you’re going to find actual, interesting, cool stuff that probably won’t be in your guide book.

Remember not to watch the clock! The best thing about solo travelling is getting to do things at your own speed, and starting with Seattle is a great way to begin your USA backpacking adventure !

Seattle can be a cool place for solo female travellers . It’s a big city with a ton of stuff to do and cool people to meet. Then again, it’s a big city. That means it is home to the hazards and outright dangers that come with the territory, and this risk is exacerbated if you’re travelling solo girl!

Most of the time though, that’s at night. And if you’re used to city living, you’ll have your own safety routine down to a T anyway. Even so, we’ve got together a handy list of our top tips for solo female travellers in Seattle to help you stay safe and have an awesome time!

• Before you travel, make a few contacts.  Get online and ask for some advice. We’d recommend a Facebook like  Girls Love Travel. Even hitting up hashtags like #girlsabroad on Instagram will uncover some cool lady travellers who will more than likely respond positively to a DM. Go for it!
• Make sure the accommodation you’re booking comes highly reviewed by other solo female travellers. Doing your research is a big part of choosing somewhere to stay; don’t just book the cheapest option.
• As a woman in Seattle, it’s pretty easy to blend into the background. It’s a big, modern city, obviously. We would say, however, to avoid looking like a traveller. Avoid hiking shoes, Day-Glo daypack, windproof raincoat, you’ll just look out of place. Try and look like you belong in the city and you’ll end up having a more comfortable time in Seattle.
• Seattle’s large homeless population may worry you. And we get it. You’ll most likely see people begging, and the tents that house the city’s homeless dotted around. It can be daunting. Know that it’s ok to say no. If someone turns nasty, cross the street, go into a shop, tell somebody (even a police officer) if you’re really freaked out about it.
• Take extra caution after dark. When everyone goes home after the business day (and happy hour) is done, the Downtown area actually gets pretty quiet. It seems everyone clears out. You may want to take extra caution wandering around here after dark, though we’d say it’s best avoided if you’re by yourself as a woman.
• Don’t be afraid to go out by yourself.  Somewhere like a sushi restaurant would be good for that since you can just take up a single seat at the bar. You could easily strike up a conversation with someone – if you want to, that is. It’s fine to eat alone!
• You don’t have to tell people everything about yourself. If someone’s asking too much, don’t tell them. A complete stranger does not need to know your full name, where you’re from, where you’re staying, or even what your travel plans are.
• Trust your gut.  If a situation feels a little bit like it’s getting weird, then it most likely is. And if a person seems like a bit of a weirdo and you don’t like it, then trust your gut and remove yourself from their company.
• Be careful if you’re going out hiking. Not in the city, obviously, but in one of the National Parks like  Rainier  for example. You can’t always get good phone service and things can go wrong. Inform people that you’re going, be prepared, or – if in doubt – take a guided tour.

As we’ve said already, Seattle is actually a pretty safe city. As a solo female traveller, you’re going to feel secure in this city. In fact, it’s a GREAT place to go by yourself. For one thing, there’s an amazing food scene to get involved with. That’s reason enough to go to Seattle!

The Waterfront District is the heart, soul and centre of Seattle. You can stroll around and enjoy the beautiful pier. It’s also where you’ll find world-renowned landmarks, including Pike Place Market and the 11-story glass library.

Seattle is a safe place for family travel. In fact, it’s a great place to go with children in tow.

There’s a cool waterfront area to run around in, fun boat trips, an aquarium, and a cool music scene. If your kids are sports fans, you can always turn up at a Seattle Seahawks game. There’s a ton of stuff to do here, so make sure you prepare a Seattle itinerary !

We’d say avoid staying in the  downtown area,  however, as a lot of the hotels here are not so family-friendly and geared towards those on business.

Keep in mind: some bars and pubs have a “no minors” policy, whilst other establishments have a “no kids” policy after 10 PM.  

Basically, Seattle is safe to travel with children in tow. 100%.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

First of all, let’s take a look at Seattle’s buses. This comprises a county-run service that has a flat rate across the city; there is a peak and an off-peak price. To pay, you will need exact change or to get yourself an ORCA Card.

Uber and Lyft are both active within the city but can get quite pricey. Similarly, renting a car is great if you want to get out of Seattle, but I’d say is unreasonably costly, especially when you factor in the insurance and fuel costs.

Then there’s the really exciting one: the Seattle streetcar. More comparable to European trams than anything else, it’s got two lines, with more planned for the future. The streetcar stops every 15 minutes, making it pretty convenient.

Finally, there’s the train and light rail system. The regular old train provides a commuter service that runs north and south of the city, whilst light rail gives a great route from the airport to Seattle University.

Violent crime in Seattle is above the national average, but there is definitely a difference between the safest and most dangerous areas of Seattle . Try avoiding the latter, especially at night! Most crime in Seattle is property-based (theft, vehicle theft, vandalism etc), which means that it is worth keeping that extra level of awareness and double-checking valuables.

In 2022, the city recorded 48 homicides, 1654 robberies, 8018 burglaries, and 6244 incidents of motor vehicle theft. Whilst this might seem like a lot, you have to remember that there are millions of visitors each year, so the chances of you getting sidewinded are super low.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Seattle without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what people usually ask us about staying safe in Seattle!

Is Seattle dangerous for tourists?

As long as you maintain your common sense, you will be perfectly fine when visiting Seattle. Tourists hardly experience any accidents, violent crime, or property theft. You should be aware of scams that can be played in touristy areas, but these are equally rare. Remember that as a visitor, you are more likely to be targeted, because you will have less reason to follow up on a reported crime.

Are there any places to avoid in Seattle?

Whilst Seattle is generally considered safe, polls indicate that residents generally avoid both Pike and Pine street. Pockets of especially rampant homelessness can be found in the so-called “Jungle”, and are best avoided at night too. Less specifically, there are parts of downtown Seattle that are considered a little sketchy after dark, so definitely worth swapping out a walk for a quick taxi.

Is Seattle safe at night?

Yes and no. While no big city is perfectly safe after dark, only the Downtown area and parks in Seattle can become a bit sketchy after dark. Avoid walking around by yourself and either stick with a larger group of friends, or hop in a taxi to get back to your place.

Is Seattle a safe place to live?

Yes. Seattle is both a safe and awesome place to live but (just like any city) there is of course some crime, and a few generic precautions you should take to ensure your safety. Certain areas have better reputations than others in terms of safety, especially Hawthorne Hills , Blue Ridge , and North Beach which are all super safe. However, even if an area doesn’t have the toddler-proof barriers that are only available to the mega-rich, there is no reason you should duck a move to Seattle on safety grounds.

Is Seattle LGBTQ+ friendly?

You’ll be pleased to know that Seattle is one of the gay-friendliest cities in the country. There are plenty of LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and accommodations. Of course, you’ll always come across one or the other idiot that thinks it’s okay to leave a nasty comment, but you’ll definitely be safe and welcome in Seattle as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

Seattle is one of the safest of America’s larger cities. It’s a pretty walkable place where you’re not likely to encounter a high level of violent or even petty crime. However, that sort of statement always needs to come with a “but”…

Which is that crime can happen anywhere. Seattle can get a fair few pickpockets and strange individuals on public transport, and travelling around late at night can be a good way to attract the attention of oddballs and potentially dangerous characters. There’s also its big homeless community. The best way to avoid all of this stuff is to go nowhere near “The Jungle” and avoid travelling late at night.

That’s the main thing about Seattle. Danger, or more to the point petty crime, is only likely to come to you if you choose to put yourself in a more risky situation. After dark = sketchy. Homeless areas = sketchy. Busy tourist areas = maybe pickpockets. Be smart with how you travel around. Keep our safety guide for Seattle in mind, be aware of things that can happen, and most likely you’ll be 100% fine!

Looking for more info on traveling to Seattle?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Seattle
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Seattle travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

Aiden Freeborn

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15 Comments

I definitely agree with many of the comments below. Seattle is indeed a beautiful city, filled with many fun activities, with kind and interesting people, and many other things. I currently live in Capitol Hill, and have been here for a little over a year and a half. Seattle is not a city that experiences much in terms of gang violence like other comparably large cities (it does occur though). However, when I moved here (note: I have spent a lot of time in Seattle as a Washington native), I did notice that there is something deeply wrong in this city. The level of refuse, needles, etc.. around the city is pretty bad. There are cities that are worse, but Seattle has become a city of immense wealth with a simultaneous level of rot in its streets. The number of severe drug addicts, and folks experiencing a severe mental crisis has become quite untenable. Some city parks, in relatively nice neighborhoods are occupied by massive tent cities, with accompanying violent and nonviolent crime. Seattle is both booming and dying as a city, which is hard to wrap ones mind around. Despite that, you can find many wonderful places to explore in this city. Seattle is full of great food from the China town, little Saigon, rainier valley, Capitol Hill etc.. Lake Washington is a beautiful place to spend a summer afternoon. Of course the classic tourist spots are also incredible. Lastly, if you want to enjoy Seattle’s LQTBQ+ community, come to Capitol Hill and enjoy all it has to offer. There are queer friendly clubs, bars, bookstores, and cafes. Seattle has many of the things any other large city has to offer, and in some ways less crime. However, things have changed here, so just be smart and look into the areas you want to visit before visiting. It’s a wonderful place, and I enjoy living here, but be safe, and try not to travel alone at night if possible. If you choose to visit this great city, enjoy and make memories!!! Seattle welcomes anyone with open arms 🙂

Heading to Seattle next week, staying right next to the Paramount at Pine and 9th. I’ve been doing a lot of research I understand things are pretty sketchy in the Belltown area – just wondering how dangerous a daytime walk down Pine to Pike Place or over to the Starbucks Roastery would be. We’ll totally Uber if we have to but they’re just so dang close if we can swing a walk we’d rather do it! Any other local tips would be appreciated!

This saddens me to see all these negative comments about the City of Seattle. Unfortunately they are 100% on par with what you will experience during your visit to Seattle. King County and the Seattle City Council have turned their back on drugs and consider hardcore drug addicts, “homeless.” They pitty the addicts and divert hundred of millions of dollars to purchase hotels so they can continue their addiction behind closed doors. The officials act like they are committing crimes for survival when in reality they are committing crimes to pay for their drug habit and responsibility free lives. Very well known homeless advocate non-profits have shown their frustration toward city and county officials without success. The homeless advocates had one question for the city. “Do you know what an addicts biggest fear is?” “Withdrawal.” The only way to save the city is enforcing Mandatory Rehab and expanding Mental illness programs.

Oh no. Has this person been to Seattle? Yikes. Do not come here. You get attacked from behind- someone might kick you as you plant flowers. Or hit you head in the with a baseball bat from behind, full body swing. It’s a nightmare. It hasn’t been nice in years. It was ok in 2005. I could name my homeless neighbors, they were nice, mostly- I think about James French, Chase with his 3 stringed guitar and Eddie who never remembers my name but remembers where my parents live. Times have changed! Seattle is a nightmare. It’s unsafe- there are turds big as an arm scattered along the sidewalks. Pee stench and veryehere- until it rains. Thank goodness the rain can wash away some stink. They shoot each other daily. They steal, rob, beat- it’s bad, really bad. It’s crazy racist too. They want racism. They now hire and fire based on a persons skin color. It’s really dumb. Whoever wrote this has never been to a seattle. I used to work in Belltiwn and have lived on the back side of capital hill, the front side, pill hill and now I’m 36 minutes away thinking it’s not enough. The asshokes are coming up the freeway.

Seattle is not safe, period. This guide reads like it was written by someone who hasn’t set foot in Seattle since 2001. The entire urban core of the city is like a giant open-air insane asylum and drunk tank, replete with garbage and debris fields stretched over virtually all public land. Crazy, violent drug addicts have ruined numerous parks and other public spaces in Capitol Hill, Queen Anne, downtown, Northgate, and other neighborhoods. The blight has continued to creep all the way up to the county line in Shoreline. There is no reason to come here. I’m only here because of family that refuses to leave.

Seattle is filthy, profoundly overrated, and unjustly expensive for everything it offers; those offerings are not at all unique or special, and can be found in any large gross city if that’s the desired experience. I cannot imagine why anyone would want to vacation in Seattle or King County in general.

I own a business in downtown Seattle and four people were shot in front of it in October alone. Car burglaries and window breaking occur all day every day. There is nothing safe about Seattle, and it’s a filthy disgusting trash heap with garbage everywhere as well as open drug use and drug paraphernalia littering the sidewalks. Public urination and defecation is not only commonplace but perfectly legal. It is so dangerous I’ll be shutting down my business at the end of the year, I couldn’t give it away, much less sell it.

Seattle is extremely dangerous. I’ve lived here for years and won’t go anywhere near downtown or capital hill, and I would move if I could. Just walking around in broad daylight, you will 100% be (at best) verbally assaulted multiple times by an aggressive heroin addict or self-righteous Antifa-type, and you will 100% have to step over countless needles and actual piles of human feces (that is, if you find a sidewalk or park that isn’t all tents). Worse things happen than mere robbery and assault every day, but Seattle City Council has the belief that perps are innocent victims who just need free-rent and a hug, and actual victims must have deserved it….so police can’t protect you and most crimes aren’t prosecuted or even counted in crime stats. It’s not a joke or an exaggeration, and anyone who claims otherwise is truly lying. If you have always wanted to visit a third-world slum where criminals are in charge and honest folk are told they should feel ashamed for not allowing pimps and thugs to take their purses and property….well, look no further than Seattle. Bring extra cash to have pick-pocketed. And don’t worry if you get Hepatitis from stepping on a needle….It is Seattle’s favorite souvenir.

Crimes that won’t be booked include shoplifting, property damage under $750, animal abuse, obstructing a law enforcement officer, trespassing, and vehicle prowling. 165 cops quit seattle 600 prisoner released, 14,000 homeless, 1300 criminals have over 25 arrests in Seattle and yet they are released. One guy has 72 arrest for assault and 36 convictions and yet he is still on the street. You can possess 30 grams of crack now. Property damage is up 22%. 12 cars a day is stolen in Seattle. Nothing is done unless your cars property damage is greater than $750.00. Shoplifting and Trespassing is no longer prosecuted.

Not sure how the author of this article can conclude Seattle is a safe city based on publicly available crime statistics. In 2020 total crime, including violent crime and property crime was 104% above the national average. 2021 is on track to be even worse. Thanks to the “Summer of Love” and one party rule, downtown looks like a war zone. Many companies have permanently closed or relocated. The once Emerald City is littered with needles, feces, and trash. You wouldn’t need any props to film a sequel to Gangs of New York.

From what I’ve seen, it looks like a trashed out, tent city third world sh*thole these days.

I live north of Seattle and have worked in Seattle for many years and it is a very dangerous place. Statistics say that there is low crime rate in Seattle because the prosecuting attorney’s office does not prosecute a lot of crimes, including assault. Police officers are quiting the force at because of the political climate demonizing them. We have roughly the same amount of police as we did in the 80’s and twice the amount of people. I’d stay away.

I lived in Seattle for 27 years and now live in Santa Fe. I still go there quite a bit to hang with my family and have seen how Seattle has changed. Not sure how safe Seattle is now given current events.

And, Seattle is definitely NOT CHILL anymore. Not by my standards anyway. In fact, I have traveled extensively throughout the US and would say that Seattle has become one of the most frenetic cities in the entire US. And now, with current events, even moreso.

Just sayin’

Seattle currently has a COVID-19 (aka the Wuhan coronavirus) outbreak.

Covid19 is spreading across the globe at a very fast pace. We will do out best to keep these Safety Guides up to date.

Very interesting honest article! However, are you aware that Olympia, not Seattle is the capital of Washington State? I know; I grew up in Olympia. Ironically, it has the same homeless problem that Seattle does.

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Everything you should know before visiting Seattle — weather, what to pack, and more

• If you're planning a trip to Seattle, be aware of updated COVID-19 and weather-related advisories.
• On average, it rains 150 days a year in Seattle, so pack a waterproof jacket and shoes.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

I grew up outside of Seattle and have lived in the city for eight years. Here's what out-of-towners should know when planning a trip to the Emerald City.

Weather advisories

Seattle is relatively temperate with short and warm summers and wet and cloudy winters, and humidity levels remain low year-round. The wet season lasts from October to April. Snowfall is pretty rare, though it's most likely to occur during December and January. Temperatures  average in the high 60s to mid-to-high 70s in the summer, and in the high 30s to low 40s in the winter. Seattle summers, especially July and August, are the best time to visit if you're hoping to enjoy warm weather, hiking, and outdoor activities. 

As you've probably heard, rain is a regular occurrence in Seattle ( about 150 days a year on average), though it's usually not too heavy. Many hotels and outdoor shopping centers have complimentary umbrellas, but it's worth carrying one with you. I recommend bringing water-resistant shoes and a jacket — you'll probably see a lot of black puffer jackets on your trip no matter what time of year it is. It's also worth bringing a jacket if you're going to be out past sunset since temperatures drop considerably at night.

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COVID-19 advisories

As of March 2022, masks are no longer required in indoor establishments in Washington, and businesses no longer require proof of vaccination for indoor dining and shopping. However, masks are still recommended indoors and on public transportation by the CDC, and masks are required in certain settings like hospitals, pharmacies, and private businesses that require masks for employees, customers, or residents. 

Washingtonians and visitors from outside the state are expected to comply with the CDC's current COVID-19 travel advisory guidance , which recommends delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated. If you're not vaccinated, travelers should follow the CDC's guidance to take a COVID-19 test before and after travel, wear a mask, maintain good hand hygiene, and socially distance, especially in crowded areas.

If you are traveling by plane to the US, the CDC requires that most non-US citizens be fully vaccinated. You'll be required to show a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovering from COVID-19 if entering the US by air. 

If you need to take a COVID-19 test during your trip, you can find COVID-19 testing sites in King County , which prioritizes appointments for people with symptoms or immediate risk for COVID-19. Bring insurance information if you have it and wear a well-fitted mask. You can also take a rapid or PCR test at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport , or purchase at-home rapid-test kits at a pharmacy, retailer, or online.

View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Seattle, Washington.

• Main content

Is It Safe in Seattle?

Seattle is one of the United State's most modern cities and although it can be very expensive, it's also considered by most travelers to be very safe. While Seattle does get a bum rap from the website Neighborhood Scout , which states that it is only safer than two percent of other cities surveyed, most tourists can feel comfortable walking around Seattle. As long as visitors are aware of their surroundings and stay in highly-populated and well-lit areas, Seattle is very safe.

Seattle is experiencing a housing crisis and there is a significant population experiencing homelessness in the city, which is growing due to the skyrocketing cost of living. Most of them do not pose a threat to visitors and will leave you alone. However, if you'd like to volunteer some of your time while you're in Seattle to help, you can find opportunities listed on the United Way of King County website.

Travel Advisories

Seattle is typically a very safe city, but there are a few things travelers need to be cognizant of due to the recent events of 2020 like the ongoing global pandemic and social unrest in the United States.

• Due to COVID-19, many Seattle businesses are still closed or operating at half-capacity. It is also mandatory, as of July 2020, for every person in Washington State to use a face-covering in public. For the latest updates about the virus, consult the Washington State website .

Is Seattle Dangerous?

Most areas of Seattle, especially areas with tourist attractions, are safe to walk around in, but you should still avoid walking around after dark in an unfamiliar area, particularly if you're in South Seattle, which tends to be an area with higher rates of crime. You’re much more likely to experience property crime in Seattle than violent crime, but even this is rare among residents, let alone tourists.

Is Seattle Safe for Solo Travelers?

For solo travelers, Seattle is an incredibly safe city that you can feel comfortable exploring on your own. Solo travelers can get around easily via cab, bus, or monorail and women have little reason to worry about walking on their own, as long as the area is well lit. It also happens to be a great city to explore solo with plenty of things to do and ways to stay entertained.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Washington is one of the more progressive and liberal states in the U.S. and Seattle has long been home to an active LGBTQ+ community that dates back to the 1930. The vast majority of Seattleites are very accepting and LGBTQ+ travelers should generally feel very safe here. That being said, reports stay that hate crimes are on the rise , but some speculate that this could be because more people are coming forward to report their experiences.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Generally, Seattle is a progressive and tolerant place for BIPOC travelers and like many other cities across the country, protests against racial discrimination and police brutality are still ongoing in Seattle. However, even with so many people moving to Seattle from all over the world to work for the big technology companies headquartered there, BIPOC only makes up a third of the city's population.   According to the Seattle Police Department's data, approximately half of the hate crimes in 2019 were motivated by race, with the majority of those incidents targeting African Americans.  

Safety Tips for Travelers

It's rare that you'll be a victim of a crime while visiting Seattle, but even if you are, it's most likely to be a property crime. Here are some general tips to avoid being targeted:

• Like most cities, Seattle’s safest areas are outside of the downtown core and tend to be residential areas or residential with light commercial. Among the safest neighborhoods are Sunset Hill, Ballard, Magnolia, Alki, Magnolia, Lower Queen Ann , and Wallingford.
• Don’t leave valuables visible inside your car. If you’re parking for the day, look for well-lit lots or parking spaces. If the parking space has low visibility for any reason, that’s all the more chance someone might feel comfortable breaking into your car while you’re out for the day.
• Always keep your purse or wallet on you, either secured by a zipper or in your front pocket.

Seattle pi. " Here's how homelessness in Seattle has changed over the decade ." January 6, 2020

Neighborhood Scout. " Seattle, WA Crime Rates " July 21, 2020.

Depts. Washington. "A brief history of LGBTQ Activism in Seattle." Retrieved December 22, 2020.

Crosscut. " Reports of hate crimes and bias have surged in Seattle since 2012 ." May 9, 2019.

Office of Planning & Community Development. " Race & Ethnicity Quick Statistics ." July 21, 2018.

Seattle.gov " Bias/Hate Crime Data " July 21, 2020.

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Seattle tourism is rebounding, but are visitors being kept safe?

by Paul Rivera, KOMO News Reporter

SEATTLE — New numbers from tourism organization ‘Visit Seattle,’ show tourism is coming back after dropping off because of the pandemic.

They add in 2021, 25 percent more visitors came to the city and King County than in 2020.

However, as more people come back to visit, are they being kept safe from crime?

Not too far from some of the city’s busiest attractions in Pike Place Market are troubled areas of the city, like 3rd and Pine, which Mayor Bruce Harrell's administration has worked to clean up. Tourists that we spoke to on Thursday, told us they have heard about the recent crime in the city.

"Yeah, we've read about it," one visitor said. "It's not unique to Seattle. We're from Chicago so we’ve got our own troubles."

Those we talked to said they generally feel safe in Seattle. Those sentiments are reflected in the positive numbers from ‘Visit Seattle.’

“We're starting to see slow, measured growth from our pre-pandemic highs," said Tom Norwalk, ‘Visit Seattle,’ President and CEO.

Norwalk emphasized the messaging of visitor safety is extremely important as they try to keep the tourism numbers growing.

"We are a relatively very safe city in the big measurements," Norwalk said. "That doesn't necessarily comfort a visitor that is walking the streets and feels uncomfortable, or that has a perception that we're not safe and that's a deterrent to making a decision to travel. What we've spent a lot of time doing is talking about the good news about what's happening in the city and an effort by the mayor and elected officials to really keep things moving in the right direction."

Meanwhile, Seattle Police officials said they are aware of increased tourism activity and they are getting ready for it.

The West Precinct is anticipating the start of increased activity in the downtown core due to cruise ships, Major League Baseball, Soccer, and summer tourism. Our emphasis is to address the violent crime in the downtown core area and to increase safety at that junction of transit, tourism, and the waterfront,” a Police Spokesperson told KOMO Thursday.

Is Seattle safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

Seattle is the largest and chief city of the state of Washington and one of the country’s most affluent urban centers. It lies along Puget Sound, a sizeable inland estuary on the northwestern coast of Washington. It is densely populated, with over 737, 000 people who call it home.

In recent years, the city has received over 20 million visitors who experience its rich coffee culture, explore breathtaking mountain hikes, and see its iconic landmarks and incredible attractions, such as Seattle Space Needle, Seattle Center , and Pike Place Market. While any time is best to visit Seattle, summer marks its high season. It’s when you can spend a relaxing afternoon at the park, have dinner at a rooftop restaurant, or party with a crowd at a concert or festival in Downtown Seattle. It’s also the ideal time to plan water adventures, like boating, kayaking, and jet skiing.

Whatever activity you want to do, your well-being and the safety of your belongings should be at the top of your priority list. That’s why it’s best to look for a safe place to store your luggage in Seattle as part of your travel preparations. Besides taking care of your items, we've compiled valuable information and tips on Seattle safety to help you enjoy a worry-free adventure in this charming city.

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Is Seattle safe to visit right now?

If you’re contemplating a visit to the Emerald City , ‘Is Seattle Safe’ is an essential question that needs an immediate answer before your trip. Since it’s a large urban area, it’s always worth adding extra caution when exploring the metropolis.

Visitors are more likely to have something stolen from them than fall victim to violent crimes.

Of course, we’ll do our best to prepare you for a safe trip to Seattle, but there’s no such thing as a perfect safety guide. Safety is unique to every individual, so you’ll have to stay alert and remain vigilant to any threats. Experienced traveler or not, you must do additional research and check out your government’s official travel guidelines for the country or city you plan to visit before deciding to travel.

Top petty crimes and scams in Seattle affecting tourists

Seattle’s crime rate is dominated by property crimes, many of which don’t affect tourists. The only threat to your safety would be scams and petty crimes, often in crowded areas like tourist spots and public transportation. One way to protect yourself and your belongings is to stay educated and be up-to-date about the fraudulent behaviors and types of thefts that could ruin your vacation.

Smash and grab

While it mainly affects stores and property owners, a few tourists visiting Seattle have also experienced this form of looting or burglary. Smash-and-grab theft typically involves driving visitors or those who rent a car to explore the city. Thieves break the window of a parked car and steal items from the vehicle.

To avoid car break-ins, only bring essentials and leave the rest of your things in a secure Bounce luggage spot in Seattle. Avoid leaving anything valuables, like your handbag and mobile phone, in plain sight.

Is Seattle safe to travel alone

Yes, Seattle is a safe place to visit alone. Of course, you should still take extra precautions, as solo travelers are more vulnerable to being victims of a violent or property crime. If you follow basic safety tips like staying alert, avoiding wandering at night, and paying attention to your surroundings, you’ll likely enjoy a safe and fun trip.

Additionally, with the United States ranking 21st on the 2021 Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Index and 32nd on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index , solo female travelers can plan a tour to one of its major metropolises without worries. Follow your instincts—if something feels off, leave.

Safest neighborhoods in Seattle

Seattle can be one of the safest among the major cities in the United States if you know where to go and what places to avoid. So before booking your accommodation, check out our list of the safest areas to stay in and the dangerous neighborhoods you might want to skip during your tour.

Hawthorne Hills

The crime rates in Hawthorne Hills are 77 percent lower than the Seattle average, making it one of the safest city neighborhoods. It’s a quaint residential area on a hilltop just northeast of the University of Washington campus. It’s an affluent community, so you’ll rarely see homeless people. It is remarkably peaceful and quiet, offering spectacular views of the Seattle skyline, Cascade Mountains, and Lake Washington.

North Bridge

Another quiet and cozy residential community where you’ll feel safe in Seattle is North Bridge , overlooking Puget Sound on the north. Its residents have access to numerous local parks and private beaches for recreation, dining, and retail options. It has a significantly low crime rate compared to other Seattle neighborhoods and is one of the ideal places to live in Washington.

Is Seattle public transportation safe?

Public transportation in Seattle is generally safe, but like in any public setting, situational awareness is vital. You should be aware of what’s happening around you while watching for potential threats.

Familiarize yourself with the bus and train system. Depending on your destination, you can buy tickets for light rails, buses, streetcars, and ferries. A monorail is also a popular option, especially for tourists, as it'll take you to several famous spots. It may not be a good idea to travel via public transit at night but catch a taxi instead. Rideshares are also prevalent, but renting a car is your best bet when planning to travel area outside the city.

Important emergency numbers in Seattle

A great way to prepare for travel is to have all emergency contacts saved on your phone so the authorities are just a dial away if something arises. Also, don’t forget to add your embassy number to your emergency contact list.

• US Area code: +1
• Seattle area code: 206
• Emergency number: 911
• Non-emergency number: (206) 625-5011
• Non-police issues: (206) 684-2489
• Social Services: 211
• 24-hour crisis line: (1-866-427-4747)
• Washington Poison Center: 1-800-222-1222

Organize a safe trip to Seattle

Seattle is Washington’s largest city and one of its most famous tourist destinations. A safe trip to Seattle is possible, but it also largely depends on how you take care of your well-being and belongings. Stay out of sketchy areas and exercise common sense as you discover the city’s attractions and stunning offerings.

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Is Seattle Safe for Tourists?

By: Author The Drivin' & Vibin' Team

Posted on January 30, 2023

Safety should always be a top priority for travel. You want to use your common sense and ensure you’re not walking into a dangerous area. So, where does Seattle fall on the spectrum of safe destinations?

Keep reading to find out if Seattle, Washington, is safe for tourists. We’ll guide you through the areas you should avoid and the best places to stay.

Let’s dive in!

About Seattle, Washington

Seattle is in northwest Washington, in the northwest corner of the lower 48 states. Sitting on Puget Sound, which leads to the Pacific Ocean, the city is full of life and beauty. It’s a thriving metropolis with a population of over 730,000 residents. It sees approximately 21 million tourists annually. 

Settlers founded Seattle in 1851 . It soon became a major port city during the gold rush. It was also a place where people built ships. The gold rush led to a significant boom in the city’s population. 

What Is Seattle Known for? 

Seattle is famous for various business startups and headquarters, including Starbucks, the Seahawks sports franchise, Amazon, Boeing, and Microsoft. It also hosted famous attractions like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, which is from the World Fair of 1962. The city is also the birthplace of the grunge music scene in the 1980s.

This northwest coastal city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Being on the coast with access to waterways and islands, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, boating, and sailing are a part of the culture. The mountains surrounding the city are also a fixture of entertainment and adventure. Hiking and mountain biking are top-rated weekend getaways for those working in the city all week long. 

Seattle is safe and worth visiting. People report less than 50,000 crimes in Seattle annually. You can even safely walk around Seattle at night. Of course, you always want to use common sense. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight. 

Like any city, there are areas with higher crime rates. Overall, Seattle is a safe tourist destination. 

What Areas Should I Avoid in Seattle? 

There are some sketchy areas in Seattle. Locals recommend avoiding 3rd Avenue between Pike and Pine and James and Yesler Street. Visitors should be aware that there’s been an increase in the homeless population in the city. While someone experiencing homelessness isn’t necessarily dangerous, crime rates are typically higher where there are homeless camps.  

Pro Tip: We won’t lie to you, The Chewing Gum Wall Is the Grossest Place in Seattle . Find out why.

Is Seattle a Walkable City? 

Seattle has many hills, but it’s very walkable. You can easily walk throughout the city to all the attractions, waterfront, and green spaces. Seattle scores 74 out of 100 on the walkability test.  

What Is the Best Part of Seattle to Stay In? 

Finding a place to stay in Seattle is pretty straightforward, but some parts of the city are more convenient for tourists than others. Let’s examine five of the best areas to find lodging. Each is close to attractions and all the city offers.

Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square has an art and music vibe. It’s a historical part of the city famous for its Renaissance Revival architecture. The area has some excellent restaurants and boutiques; this is where you want to stay if you’re looking for nightlife. 

Belltown also has good food, shops, and nightlife. You’ll find places like the Seattle Glassblowing Studio and a Patagonia store. There are many ethnic food varieties to try.

Queen Anne is home to Seattle Center, which houses the Space Needle. It provides sweeping views of the city and Puget Sound. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and shops in the area. 

Waterfront is an excellent home base on a visit to Seattle. You can walk along the water efficiently to all the downtown sights. If you want to take a boat to an island, there are options.

University District

University District offers a relaxed vibe, as many students live here. It features the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops.

What Is the Best Month to Go to Seattle?

You can visit Seattle year-round. The best months to stay are May through October when the temperatures are warm, and there’s less rain. Late spring and early fall will be less busy with fewer crowds. Summer is perfect for water sports and island hopping, and there are often events downtown. 

How Do Tourists Get Around Seattle?

Tourists can get around Seattle on foot, by car, by public transportation, or by bike. The most popular way to see the city when visiting is on foot. Walking around the city gives you access to more attractions and businesses that you might overlook otherwise. Plus, there’s something about walking through a big city that makes you smile.

Pro Tip:  Keep an eye out for these  Most Dangerous Creatures on the Pacific Coast  while exploring Seattle, Washington.

Is Seattle Good for Tourists?

Seattle is a good city for tourists. There are endless attractions, restaurants, shops, and sources of entertainment. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, you can head to the mountains for hiking or biking or to Puget Sound for kayaking, whale watching, island hopping, and camping. There is also an organized ferry system from Seattle to nearby islands where you can explore small coastal towns and enjoy the local fare. 

Will you visit Seattle on your next road trip?

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Planning Your Summer Travels: Is Seattle Safe?

Is Seattle Safe? Perhaps you are looking at that flight ticket and wondering if you should embark on the journey or not. If so, keep reading!

Camilla Amadi • Jun 14, 2024

Seattle is a vibrant city on the West Coast that draws visitors for its stunning natural scenery , thriving cultural attractions, and booming job opportunities.

Seattle is a jewel of the Pacific Northwest, nestled between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountain Range. This coastal city is renowned for its breathtaking views, easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking, and its reputation as a hub for tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon . Tourists flock to the iconic Space Needle, lively Pike Place Market, and fascinating Museum of Pop Culture. With a mild climate and relatively low costs compared to other major cities, it’s no wonder Seattle draws so many new residents each year.

Top attractions like the visually striking Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit, scenic Kerry Park, and the exceptional Seattle Aquarium make Emerald City a captivating place to explore. The city’s diverse neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, Fremont, and Ballard each have their own distinct vibes and local businesses to discover. From kayaking on Lake Union to wandering through Olympic Sculpture Park, there’s no shortage of ways to experience Seattle’s one-of-a-kind blend of urban energy and natural splendor.

While Seattle boasts a high quality of life for residents, the city does face some public safety challenges that visitors should be aware of. Property crime rates tend to be higher than the national average. We’ve broken down key travel advisories and safety tips for those planning a trip to Seattle.

Seattle’s Latest Travel Advisories

As with any travel destination, it’s wise to review official travel advisories before visiting Seattle. The U.S. State Department has no current nationwide advisory in effect for travel within the United States. However, the Seattle field office of the State Department’s Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) provides regular crime and safety reports for the area.

According to OSAC, property crimes like car break-ins, residential burglaries, and thefts from downtown businesses and hotels are the biggest concerns. Certain areas, like the streets around the Pike Place Market and the city’s parks, see higher rates of crime compared to residential neighborhoods. OSAC also notes an increase in reports of aggravated assault with firearms over the past year.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) lists no current travel health notices for the Seattle area. The risk of contracting most travel-related illnesses in this major U.S. city is low for those with routine vaccinations. Air quality can be an issue during wildfire seasons.

Is Seattle Safe For Tourists?

Overall, Seattle is considered a safe travel destination for tourists when taking normal precautions. Violent crime rates are lower than the national average, and most crimes are property-related, like theft. However, visitors should exercise increased caution in certain areas, especially at night.

Solo travelers should feel relatively safe exploring Seattle’s top tourist districts during the day but may want to stick to well-lit main streets after dark or use rideshare services instead of walking alone at night. Downtown, the University District, and some parks have seen an increase in assault and robbery incidents, according to recent crime reports. Be cautious when purchasing merchandise from street vendors, as counterfeit goods are common.

Property crimes like car break-ins or pickpocketing are the biggest safety concerns for tourists in Seattle. Lock valuables out of sight, park in well-lit areas, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like Pike Place Market.

While Seattle does have issues with property crime, the city overall is ranked as one of the safest major metro areas in the United States by indexes that analyze crime statistics, law enforcement capabilities, and other factors.

How to Stay Safe in Seattle

When visiting any urban destination, sticking to well-populated main streets and tourist districts is advisable, especially after dark. In Seattle specifically, some additional safety tips for tourists include:

• Do not leave valuables visible in your vehicle, even for a short period. Breaking into cars is one of the most common property crimes.
• Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in areas with nightlife like Pike/Pine or the University District. Use ride-shares or public transit instead.
• Do not overtly display expensive items like electronics, cameras, or jewelry when out in public.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and avoid engaging with aggressive panhandlers.
• Only take licensed taxis or rideshare vehicles when using a transportation service.

While Seattle’s crime issues are centered around property offenses, using common sense safety practices can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Where to Stay in Seattle

Seattle offers diverse neighborhoods to suit any travel style and budget, though areas closer to the main tourist attractions tend to be pricier. Some of the most popular and safe districts for tourists include:

Downtown: Walking distance to Pike Place Market, the waterfront, and top museums and attractions. More expensive hotels but very convenient.

Belltown: a trendy area near Downtown with boutique hotels, nightlife, parks, and easy transit access.

Queen Anne: Residential feel, but nearby Seattle Center/Space Needle. Affordable mid-range hotels.

Capitol Hill: Hip, LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood with cool bars and restaurants. Some boutique hotels.

For a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience, consider staying in hotels or rentals located right on the waterfront or with views of the Puget Sound and mountains. Wherever you book, be sure to choose accommodations in well-lit areas with plenty of activity for peace of mind.

The Best Times to Visit Seattle

Thanks to its mild climate, Seattle is a fantastic year-round destination. However, some periods are better suited for sightseeing than others: The dry summer months between June and September offer prime weather for outdoor activities and peak tourism. Expect higher prices but long, sunny days.

Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) have fewer crowds, lower rates, and temperate weather, though there is a chance of rain. Winters are quite rainy but you’ll find the lowest hotel prices and few crowds at major attractions. An umbrella is a must from November to March. Whenever you go, be prepared with layers and rain jackets. Seattle sees around 150 rainy days per year, on average!

People Also Ask

Is downtown Seattle safe at night? Some areas, like Pike/Pine have higher crime rates at night. Use caution and take public transit after dark.

How bad is the homeless situation in Seattle? Homelessness is an issue and individuals should avoid confrontations or giving money directly.

Is it safe to walk around Seattle at night? While Seattle is generally safe, it’s advisable to exercise caution when walking around at night, especially in isolated areas or neighborhoods with higher crime rates. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, and consider using a rideshare service or public transportation if possible.

Is Seattle safe for solo female travelers? Seattle is considered relatively safe for solo female travelers, but as with any destination, it’s important to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, be aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts if a situation feels unsafe.

Should You Still Travel To Seattle?

Seattle is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. While no city is entirely free of risks, exercising common sense and taking standard precautions can help ensure a worry-free and enjoyable visit. If you have any specific concerns or need alternative destination suggestions, consult with travel professionals or engage with local communities for personalized advice.

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6 things Seattle locals want you to know

Jul 4, 2023 • 6 min read

Here's a local's perspective on how you should plan for your trip to Seattle © RyanJLane / Getty Images

I grew up in the Pacific Northwest and spent the first 22 years of my life there. Since then, I’ve lived there on and off. The Seattle area has its quirks that make it a very special place. The ability to take a tranquil walk through the woods and find yourself by the ocean for a pastel-colored sunset in less than an hour makes the soul feel so at peace in this part of the world.

While Seattle’s typically known as a rainy, gloomy city, it actually gets less rainfall in inches than many other major cities like New York. Admittedly, the number of days it rains does put Seattle in the top 10, but most locals would say it’s a mild sprinkle most of the time rather than a torrential downpour.

Despite the overcast skies, Seattle is a beautiful part of Washington State to visit. But before you head out, here are some things to know before visiting the Emerald City gem of the Pacific Northwest .

1. You need at least three days, ideally a week, in Seattle

Seattle has a lot of activities and experiences to indulge in, but I’d say a three-day weekend would suffice if you’re short on time. In those three days, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy popular attractions like Pike Place Market , the Space Needle and majestic mountain backdrops. 

Enjoy some fantastic, freshly-caught cuisine at Anthony’s – a seafood staple – or classics at the Red Mill , which serves tasty burgers and onion rings. Immerse yourself in the city’s culture with a visit to the eclectic Museum of Pop Culture , or snag tickets to an NFL Seattle Seahawks game (don’t forget to wear green). 

But if you want a more in-depth Pacific Northwest adventure, you’ll need at least a week to add on day trips and excursions to the surrounding areas .

A ferry ride out to one of the many beautiful islands in Puget Sound requires an entire day on your itinerary. For nature lovers, a hike at Rattlesnake Ledge – a 40-minute drive from the city – promises amazing views from an 1100ft elevation. During ski season, make the 51-mile drive to the  Summit at Snoqualmie for some action on the slopes.

You can use Seattle as a base, but you may want to look into accommodations in Snoqualmie, Bainbridge Island or Leavenworth if you intend to extend your stay outside the city.

2. The Seattle Freeze stereotype is just that

The Seattle Freeze is a moniker applied to unfriendly locals, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. While there’s a bit of truth in this stereotype that making friends in Seattle is difficult, that more applies to the transplants who move there long-term rather than everyday interactions.

This is a similar phenomenon in other cities, but the Freeze has been a popular topic of conversation for almost two decades. It's often used as an excuse for people to keep to themselves. But don’t let this typecasting of Seattle push you away; the reality is that Seattleites are incredibly friendly. 

  At 6am, a barista in Seattle will say sweeter things to you while you’re still fully waking up than anywhere else I’ve visited. Simply put, there's no such thing as the Seattle Freeze.

3. The dress code in Seattle is casual

While you may hope to dress in your vacation best while venturing around Seattle, you’ll likely feel more comfortable in a less flashy outfit. 

Unlike some more fashion-forward cities like Paris , New York City or Italy , Seattle is more in line with Nordic countries that adhere to the Law of Jante ideal, which stresses that it’s best to dress and act without attracting attention.

You’ll likely see most people sporting North Face jackets, jeans and sneakers. Even Amazon corporate headquarters employees are encouraged to dress as comfortably as possible, with some even coming into the office in sweats. 

By adapting to the Pacific Northwest chill vibe that residents are bound to, you’ll fit right in. But if you do opt to get a little fancier, get ready for major compliments from the locals, who'll be pleasantly surprised and excited to see someone putting in some extra effort.

4. Try the local coffee (no, Starbucks doesn’t really count)

Technically, Starbucks is a local coffee institution in Seattle as it’s the original location of the very first cafe, but there are many other options available in the city serving delicious brews.

Seattle’s reputation as the coffee capital is well-earned. The city tops many lists from all over the country as the best location to fulfill your caffeine fix. Coffee culture is extremely important to the locals, so find a cafe that’s anything but a Starbucks (although by all means go there too) to get to the true heart of Seattle java.

Join students studying at Cafe Allegro in the University District or support Black-owned Black Coffee , which gives back to local youth programming. You can also stop by one of the many Caffe Vita locations around the city for some of the best roasts. 

Diva Espresso serves a great iced coffee at any time of the year. For something a bit more unique, find Vietnamese coffee creations at Sip House or Coffeeholic .

5. Bring a raincoat, but not an umbrella

The easiest way to spot a tourist in Seattle is when it starts to rain. Visitors will grab an umbrella, while true Pacific Northwest citizens will reach for a raincoat. 

It may seem senseless to bypass a tool specifically designed for rain, but Seattleites understand that most rain will be light and probably go away after an hour. Taking out an umbrella for such a mild moment isn’t very useful and makes you look like a novice.

To properly prepare for the possibility of rain during your visit, make sure you have a good raincoat or waterproof jacket, preferably with a hood. If you forget to pack one before your trip, Seattle has plenty of shops, including the REI flagship store, to set you straight. 

6. Stay safe in Seattle

Most of Seattle is safe to explore and walk around during the day and night. However, locals may discourage you from a specific block downtown – around 3rd Ave, 2nd Ave, Pike Street and Pine Street – where crime is more likely to occur. 

Like any travel scenario, keep valuables out of sight on both your body and in a car. Most locations in Seattle take card payments, so leave large amounts of cash at home or locked in a safe at your hotel. Be aware of your surroundings in crowded places like Pike Place Market, where a pickpocket could target you while you’re caught off guard.

Seattle is also an inclusive and welcoming city for the LGBTQIA+ community – especially in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, where you’ll find rainbow sidewalks and many queer-friendly bars and clubs. And while the demographics of Seattle aren't as diverse as larger cities, Seattle celebrates BIPOC communities with various events at institutions like the Museum of Pop Culture and the Seattle Art Museum .

This article was first published Nov 4, 2022 and updated Jul 4, 2023.

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Where to stay in Seattle for first time: 5 Safe areas

Finding where to stay in Seattle as a first-time visitor can be a headache. That’s why, in today’s article, I will share with you what I believe are the best and safe areas to stay in Seattle (including a map + areas to avoid), where I stayed in Seattle, and the best hotels in Seattle for all budgets.

Seattle is a major city located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is the largest city in Washington state and serves as its economic, cultural, and transportation hub. 

Seattle is a major economic center with a strong presence in technology, healthcare, aerospace, and other industries. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and Starbucks have headquarters or significant operations in the area. 

The city is often referred to as the Emerald City due to its lush greenery and its association with the fictional city in The Wizard of Oz.

Some of the must-see attractions in Seattle include Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Seattle Waterfront, Seattle Aquarium, Museum of Pop Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and Seattle Art Museum.

The city is surrounded by water, so you can take a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island or the San Juan Islands, which is a great way to enjoy the scenic views of Puget Sound and the nearby islands.

If you’re a sports fan, check if there’s a game happening at CenturyLink Field (home to the Seahawks) or T-Mobile Park (home to the Mariners).

Seattle is famous for its coffee culture. Don’t miss the chance to visit the original Starbucks at Pike Place Market or explore some of the city’s local coffee shops.

Is Seattle safe to visit?

Yes, Seattle is generally safe place to visit, but like any urban area, it’s important to exercise caution. The city also faces issues like homelessness, which can affect the perception of safety. 

Most tourist areas like Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and downtown are safe during the day. However, to ensure a safe experience, it’s advisable to be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and stay in well-lit areas at night. 

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Seattle for the first time?

• Lower Queen Anne/Seattle Center
• South Lake Union
• Pike Place Market Area (Downtown Seattle)
• Capitol Hill

The best and safe areas to stay in Seattle for first-time tourists are Belltown, Lower Queen Anne/Seattle Center, South Lake Union, Pike Place Market (Downtown), and Capitol Hill. However, safety can vary even within neighborhoods, so it’s always essential to stay alert no matter where you stay. 

If you prefer a central location and easy access to tourist spots, Pike Place Market or Lower Queen Anne/Seattle Center may be your best bet. 

Belltown and South Lake Union offer a mix of convenience and accessibility. If you’re looking for a more local and lively atmosphere with nightlife, Capitol Hill could be a great choice. 

Ballard and Fremont are also safe but more residential neighborhoods, but I wouldn’t recommend it for first-time visitors because it is quite distant from the city’s major attractions, so maybe consider a visit or stay in your next visit.

Fremont is a quirky neighborhood known for its artistic community and the Fremont Troll sculpture. Ballard is where you can find a nice beach, Ballard Locks, and Nordic Heritage Museum.

It is recommended to avoid or exercise caution when visiting Pioneer Square, International District (Chinatown), and SoDo (South of Downtown). 

While Pioneer Square has some historic charm and interesting architecture, it can have a higher concentration of homeless individuals and occasional safety concerns, especially at night. 

During my first time in Seattle, I stayed in the area around Pike Place Market in Downtown Seattle at the Mayflower Park Hotel . The hotel has a very central location, a short walk to the popular Belltown, and easy access to public transportation. Great base for travelers without a car like me.

Below is a map of the most popular areas in Seattle for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.

Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Seattle, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget. 

All hotels in Seattle have been carefully selected by me, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.

5 Best areas to stay in Seattle for first-timers & tourists:

1. belltown.

Belltown is a popular neighborhood for tourists to stay in when visiting Seattle for the first time. It’s known for its central location, vibrant atmosphere, and proximity to many attractions and amenities. 

Belltown is situated right next to downtown Seattle and Queen Ann, making it easy to access many of the city’s top attractions, including Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Olympic Sculpture Park, and the waterfront.

Belltown is a highly walkable neighborhood, and you can explore much of the city on foot from here. It’s also well-connected to public transportation, so you can easily get around the city.

Belltown boasts a diverse range of restaurants, bars, and nightlife options. You’ll find everything from trendy cocktail lounges to casual eateries serving a variety of cuisines.

The neighborhood is home to numerous art galleries, making it a great place for art enthusiasts to explore. There are plenty of boutique shops and stores, allowing you to indulge in some retail therapy.

Consideration: The central location means that Belltown can get quite noisy, especially on weekends and during the evenings, due to its vibrant nightlife scene. If you prefer a quieter stay, you might want to consider other neighborhoods.

Parking can be expensive and limited in Belltown, so if you have a car, you’ll need to plan for parking costs and availability.

Best places to stay in Seattle in Belltown for first-timers:

• Luxury ($$$): Pan Pacific Seattle , this 5-star hotel, located within walking distance from Belltown, the Space Needle, and Pike Street. Also close to lots of nice restaurants, entertainment options and nightlife.
• Mid-range ($$): The Edgewater, a Noble House Hotel , 4-star hotel, located on Seattle’s waterfront at Pier 67, offering shuttle service within downtown Seattle for guests. Easy access to the famous Pike Place Market, Space Needle, Seattle Aquarium, and Seattle Ferry Terminal for the Victoria Clipper.
• Budget ($): Staypineapple, Hotel FIVE, Downtown Seattle , great 3-star eco-friendly hotel, centrally located, ideal for first-timers. Short distance from Pike Place Market and Seattle Waterfront.

2. Lower Queen Anne/Seattle Center

Lower Queen Anne, also known as Uptown, is a safe and fantastic neighborhood for first-time tourists to stay in when visiting Seattle. This area is particularly known for its proximity to iconic attractions and its relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.  

This neighborhood is right next to the Seattle Center, home to famous landmarks like the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and MoPOP (Museum of Pop Culture). You can easily walk to these attractions, making it very convenient for sightseeing.

In addition to the major attractions, this area is close to many theaters, including the Pacific Northwest Ballet, Seattle Repertory Theatre, and the historic Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, making it a great choice for culture enthusiasts.

The Space Needle and some of the higher points in Queen Anne offer beautiful views of the city skyline and Puget Sound. It’s a great area for photography and taking in the scenic beauty of Seattle.

Lower Queen Anne has a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from, so you’ll have plenty of dining and entertainment options within walking distance.

This neighborhood is well-served by public transportation, including the monorail that connects to downtown Seattle, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.

Best places to stay in Lower Queen Anne/Seattle Center for first-timers:

• Mid-range ($$): Staypineapple, The Maxwell Hotel, Seattle Center Seattle , 3-star accommodation, conveniently located within walking distance from Space Needle and  Seattle Center Monorail.
• Mid-range ($$): Hyatt House Seattle Downtown , this 3-star accommodation, located right across the street from Space Needle, offering paid airport shuttle services, free shuttle in 1.6 km radius from the hotel, a short walk from the Museum of Pop Culture and Olympic Sculpture Park.
• Mid-range ($$): The Mediterranean Inn , a very popular 3-star hotel, in Queen Ann, a few mins walk from Space Needle and KeyArena, offering views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and Elliot Bay.  

3. South Lake Union

South Lake Union is a neighborhood in Seattle that has seen significant growth and development in recent years, making it an increasingly popular choice for tourists. 

South Lake Union is home to Amazon’s headquarters and numerous other tech companies. If you’re visiting Seattle for business or to explore the tech scene, this is a convenient neighborhood to stay in.

The neighborhood is located along the shores of Lake Union, offering opportunities for scenic walks, boat tours, kayaking, and other water activities. You can even rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake.

South Lake Union has a growing culinary scene with a variety of restaurants and cafes, ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining establishments. It’s a great place to explore different cuisines.

While South Lake Union has its own unique vibe, it’s also within walking distance or a short drive from downtown Seattle and its many attractions, including Pike Place Market and the Space Needle.

The neighborhood is home to the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), which offers insights into Seattle’s history and culture.

Overall, South Lake Union is a good option for both business travelers and leisure tourists who want a mix of tech innovation, waterfront views, and a quieter atmosphere.

Best places to stay in Seattle in South Lake Union for first-timers:

• Mid-range ($$): Silver Cloud Hotel – Seattle Lake Union , popular 3-star hotel, located on  Fairview Avenue North, South Lake Union, great location, beautiful views of the lake, and easy access to public transportation to visit the downtown area.
• Mid-range ($$): Staybridge Suites Seattle – South Lake Union, an IHG Hotel , 3-star hotel, located in the South Lake Union district of Seattle, easy access to major attractions of Seattle.
• Mid-range ($$): Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Lake Union , 3-star hotel located on Lake Union,  very close to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Only a 10 mins  streetcar ride from Westlake Shopping Center in Downtown Seattle.

4. Pike Place Market Area (Downtown Seattle)

The Pike Place Market area in downtown Seattle is an excellent choice for first-time tourists who want to be at the heart of the action, experience Seattle’s vibrant food scene, and explore iconic attractions.

You’ll be steps away from one of Seattle’s most iconic and beloved attractions, Pike Place Market. This historic market is home to fresh produce, artisan foods, unique shops, and the famous flying fishmongers.

The Pike Place Market area is close to the Seattle waterfront, where you can take scenic walks along the piers, visit the Seattle Aquarium, and enjoy stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.

There are numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the area, offering a wide range of cuisines, from seafood to international dishes. You can savor fresh seafood, explore food stalls in the market, or enjoy fine dining experiences.

You’ll find cultural attractions such as the Seattle Art Museum and the Seattle Public Library nearby, making it easy to explore the city’s art and culture.

Staying in the Pike Place Market area means you’re within walking distance of many downtown attractions, including the Space Needle, Pioneer Square, and the Seattle Waterfront.

Best places to stay in Seattle in Pike Place Market  area for first-timers:

• Luxury ($$$): Grand Hyatt Seattle , 5-star hotel, centrally located in Downtown Seattle, a short walk from Pike Place Market, comfortable rooms, close to popular attractions. 
• Mid-range ($$): Mayflower Park Hotel , 4-star historic hotel in Downtown Seattle, easy access to the monorail for trains to go to the Space Needle and the Seattle Center.
• Budget ($): Palihotel Seattle , popular 3-star hotel near Pike Place Market, conveniently located close to  Space Needle, CenturyLink Field and Seattle Great Wheel. 

5. Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in Seattle known for its diverse culture, nightlife, and artistic community. Staying in Capitol Hill can provide a unique and local experience for first-time tourists.  

Capitol Hill is often considered the heart of Seattle’s counterculture and creative scene. It’s known for its artistic expression, LGBTQ+ community, and independent businesses, giving you a taste of Seattle’s local culture.

This neighborhood boasts a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, live music venues, and theaters. It’s an excellent choice if you enjoy going out in the evenings.

Capitol Hill is home to a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries, offering everything from trendy brunch spots to international cuisine. Food enthusiasts will find plenty of options to explore.

The neighborhood features a mix of boutiques, vintage shops, and specialty stores, making it a great place for shopping and discovering unique items.

Capitol Hill is surrounded by parks like Volunteer Park, which houses the Seattle Asian Art Museum and offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

It’s well-connected to public transportation, allowing you to easily access other parts of the city, including downtown Seattle.

Due to its lively nightlife and urban environment, Capitol Hill can be noisy, especially on weekends and during events. If you’re sensitive to noise, consider accommodations away from the busiest streets.

Overall, Capitol Hill is an ideal neighborhood for tourists who want to experience Seattle’s vibrant arts and culture scene, enjoy a lively nightlife, and explore unique dining and shopping options. Just be prepared for potential noise and the hilly terrain.

Best places to stay in Seattle in Capitol Hill for first-timers:

• Mid-range ($$): Silver Cloud Hotel – Seattle Broadway , 4-star hotel located in Capitol Hill, right across the street from Seattle University, featuring an onsite Jimmy’s on Broadway restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 
• Mid-range ($$): Sonder The Boylston , this accommodation is centrally located in Capitol Hill district, close to Westlake Center, Seattle Center Monorail and Columbia Center.
• Budget ($): Seattle Gaslight Inn , 3-star good value for money accommodation, situated in a safe central location, close to everything.

In conclusion, Belltown, South Lake Union, Queen Anne/Seattle Center, Pike Place Market (Downtown), and Capitol Hill are the best places to stay in Seattle for first-timers . These are safe central areas that offer plenty of things to do and see within walking distance or a short ride away.

You can continue reading about Seattle in these articles:

• Best areas to stay in Seattle for families with kids
• Best areas to stay in Seattle without a car

There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Seattle. I hope you found my article helpful and enjoy your holiday!

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. This means that, at absolutely no additional cost to you, I'll earn a small commission if you click through and purchase something I've recommended. I only recommend products that I use myself or firmly believe in. Thank you!

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10 Safest Neighborhoods in Seattle

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.

1. Hawthrone Hills

2. broadmoor, 3. arbor heights, 4. blue ridge, 5. matthews beach, 6. north beach, 7. view ridge, 8. laurelhurst, 9. wedgwood, create a plan to get home, avoid leaving valuables in your car, avoid unsafe areas at night, trust your gut instincts, be careful while hiking, seattle safety overview, currently, is seattle a dangerous city, what are the most dangerous neighborhoods in seattle, is seattle a safe city to travel to with kids.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Seattle

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Seattle Safety Review

• 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

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.

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

• Haller Lake
• South Lake Union
• Lower Queen Anne

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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Neighborhoods to Avoid in Seattle – The Most Dangerous and the Best to Stay

You will soon be staying in the Emerald City and want to know the neighborhoods to avoid in Seattle, the most dangerous and the best ones to stay in. It's true that these days, it's better to find out about the neighborhoods where you're going to stay, particularly in large American or European cities.

Even if Seattle is not among the most dangerous cities in the United States, there are still neighborhoods to avoid.

So, to help you spot the most dangerous and best neighborhoods to stay in Seattle, here is a guide with a map of the city's main neighborhoods.

All the information in this article comes from the web (economic media, local press, world rankings and statistics). This guide is a synthesis of data and therefore does not involve any judgment or discrimination.

Is Seattle a dangerous city in 2024?

NO, we can say that in 2024 Seattle is not one of the most dangerous cities in the United States. You will be able to see this yourself by consulting the statistics of the FBI, city-data.com or Seattle Police official report .

This is also what we see on the Numbeo ranking of the most criminal cities of America updated in 2024. Indeed, Seattle is positioned in 14th position out of the 32 American cities classified according to their level of crime. With a crime index of 54.88 , Seattle is therefore average.

In comparison, Seattle would be less dangerous than many other American cities like Sound , Baltimore , Chicago , Houston , Atlanta , Philadelphia ou New Orleans .

And if we compare the figures to world level , Seattle is much safer than cities like Cape Town , Sao Paulo , Naples , Marseille ou Lima .

However, Seattle's crime rate has risen sharply:

Police Chief Adrian Diaz said, "We've had a more than 95 percent increase in the number of shots fired and a 171 percent increase in the number of people shot compared to last year." Source: Newspaper article The Seattle Times

Is Seattle dangerous for tourists?

NO but, as in all big cities, tourists must remain cautious. In fact, travelers will simply have to avoid some less safe or less interesting areas for tourism and remain vigilant at tourist sites (risk of pickpockets, scams, phone thefts for example).

Map of Seattle Neighborhoods

There are 7 districts in the city of Seattle numbered from 1 to 7, which are themselves divided into neighborhoods (see details on the site of the city ​​of seattle ).

To help you locate the Seattle neighborhoods to avoid (list below), here is the map of the main neighborhoods: Google map

Seattle's Most Dangerous Neighborhoods

You can check the map of the most dangerous areas of Seattle in 2024 on the official site: Seattle Police Department .

And, cross-referencing with other online statistics, without being very unsafe neighborhoods, here are the neighborhoods considered to be the least safe in Seattle:

• Capitol Hill
• Downtown Commercial
• UniversityDistrict
• South Ballard
• South Lake Union
• Lower Queen Anne
• Rainier Beach

Dangerous is defined as the Seattle neighborhoods that have the highest per capita rates of violent and property crime. Click on their links to locate them on Google Maps.

Neighborhoods to avoid in Seattle

In addition to these neighborhoods listed above, here is a list of places to avoid in Seattle especially at night:

• 3rd Avenue in the neighborhood Pike Place Market and Pine Street;
• The area around 1st Avenue and around Blanchard and Bell in the neighborhood Belltown ;
• The area of South of Dearborn Street to Yesler Way ;
• Some areas of The Martin Luther King JR Way.

Seattle Red Light Districts

Among the neighborhoods to avoid in Seattle, we should also mention the red light districts even if they are not necessarily dangerous. Among those with the worst reputation is the area around Aurora Avenue which is located in the Liton Springs neighborhood.

Best neighborhoods to stay in Seattle

Impossible to say which is the best or the most beautiful neighborhood in Seattle. Indeed, the city of Seattle has many beautiful neighborhoods that all have their own identity. Some specificities will be appreciated by some and perhaps not by others. Choosing the best neighborhood depends on tastes and the type of stay planned.

But, as in all cities, there are neighborhoods that are more popular and more fashionable than others. Among the best and safest neighborhoods, professionals and real estate agencies in Seattle cite the following:

• North Beach
• Hawthorne Hills
• Matthews Beach
• Arbor Heights
• laurelhurst

Where to stay in Seattle for tourists?

For tourists looking for where to stay in Seattle, the most touristic area is Downtown .

Downtown tourist district of Seattle

This area of ​​downtown Seattle is home to the Central Waterfront, Aquarium, Space Needle, Pike Place Market, historic Pioneer Square, Museum of Pop Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Children's Museum, the Olympic Sculpture Park, the Paramount Theater, the Alaskan Way, and more.

See location of this neighborhood

Best area to stay in Downtown Seattle

Downtown has several sub-districts (Pioneer Square, International District, Pike Place Market, First Hill, Yesler Terrace, Belltown) and a few areas to avoid (see above). So, we might ask ourselves, where is the best place to stay in Downtown Seattle?

Faced with the immense hotel offer found in Downtown Seattle, the best location in a safe area for tourists is on the Waterfront.

Here is the hotel that I recommend for its services and its ideal location close to the tourist sites of Seattle: The Edgewater a Noble House Hotel .

And for those looking for a good hotel a little cheaper, here is the Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown .

How to visit Seattle?

Here are some ideas for interesting and practical excursions to visit Seattle: Seattle Sightseeing Bus ou Sky View Observatory Seattle

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Travel tips for June 18-July 2: construction, sports, community events, Juneteenth, and Pride Weekend

Blog stats: 1,200 words | 6-minute read

At-a-glance:

• Summer is kicking off and we want you to stay in the know about upcoming construction activities, professional sports games, and community celebrations taking place in the Seattle area, so you can travel with confidence in the weeks ahead.

SDOT construction, closures, and travel impacts

Regional transportation agency work, major league sports home games.

• Community celebrations
• We also encourage you to follow us on X at @seattledot and @SDOTTraffic , and visit the websites of our regional partner agencies, including WSDOT , King County Metro , and Sound Transit .
• You can also visit our Project and Construction Coordination Map for a map of various construction projects taking place throughout the city.
• We’ll continue to publish these blogs throughout the summer to help you plan ahead and know what to expect when you travel.

Please note: our construction projects take place throughout Seattle. To stay informed about projects near you, subscribe to our email updates . You can select from a list of projects and subscribe to the ones you’re most interested in. Thank you.

• Construction is underway for the Route 40 Transit Plus Multimodal Corridor Project at N 105th St and N Northgate Way and Aurora Ave N in North Seattle. Construction includes upgrading sidewalks, ADA-accessible curb ramps, and bus stop improvements. Eastbound lane restrictions are expected to begin July 1 during daytime hours on N 105th St/N Northgate Way, with expected delays through the area for the next few weeks.

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)

Note: the work activities listed below are weather-dependent and subject to change.

• The eastbound Mercer Street on-ramps to northbound and southbound I-5 will be closed from 10 p.m. Monday, June 24 to 5 a.m. Tuesday, June 25; and again from 10 p.m. Tuesday, June 25 to 5 a.m. Wednesday, June 26. This is for construction on the SR 520/I-5 Express Lanes Connection Project. Click here to learn more .
• Starting Monday morning June 24, East Roanoke Street between 22nd Avenue East and East Montlake Place East (just south of the Montlake Boulevard/SR 520 interchange) will be closed until Wednesday, July 3. This work is part of the SR 520 Montlake Project. Click here to learn more .
• From 10 p.m. Friday, June 21 through 5 a.m. Monday, June 24, all SR 520 on- and off-ramps to/from Montlake Boulevard will be closed. This includes closing Montlake Boulevard between East Hamlin Street and East Louisa Street, and Lake Washington Boulevard between East Roanoke Street and East Montlake Boulevard. Lake Washington Boulevard will be limited to local traffic only between East Roanoke Street and Foster Island Road. There will be a signed detour for pedestrians and bicyclists through the work area. This work is also part of the SR 520 Montlake Project. Click here to learn more .
• The westbound I-90 off-ramp to northbound Rainier Avenue South will close from 9 p.m. Friday, June 21 until 10 p.m. Sunday, June 23 for work in Seattle. Private contractor crews will be working on Rainier Avenue South north of I-90. A signed detour will be in place.
• Weeknights over the next few weeks, there will be lane reductions on both directions of I-5, between just north of the Corson Avenue interchange and the SR 599/Interurban Avenue interchange. Travelers in both directions of I-5 should expect multiple lanes and ramps to be closed during overnight hours from Sunday nights through Friday mornings. Additionally, from 10 p.m. Friday, June 21 through 5 a.m. Monday, June 24, up to three lanes of southbound I-5 near mid-Boeing Field will be closed for expansion joint repairs. This is part of the I-5 Duwamish River to South Lucile Street concrete pavement rehabilitation project. Click here to learn more .

Seattle Mariners

Upcoming games at T-Mobile Park

• Friday, June 28 at 6:40 PM: Minnesota Twins
• Saturday, June 29 at 7:10 PM: Minnesota Twins
• Sunday, June 30 at 1:10 PM: Minnesota Twins
• Tuesday, July 2 at 6:40 PM: Baltimore Orioles

To learn more:

• https://www.mlb.com/mariners/schedule

If you’re riding the Link light rail, get off at the Stadium Station and walk a short two blocks over to the ballpark. If taking rideshare, there is a designated rideshare lot southeast of the stadium. If driving, the Mariners Garage opens 3 hours before game time. Biking, scooting, walking, or rolling to the game may also be great options, depending on your trip specifics. Find more information on navigating to T-Mobile Park here.

Seattle Storm

Upcoming games at Climate Pledge Arena

• Sunday, June 23 at 12 PM: Connecticut Sun
• Thursday, June 27 at 7 PM: Indiana Fever
• Saturday, June 29 at 6 PM: Dallas Wings
• Monday, July 1 at 7 PM: Dallas Wings
• https://storm.wnba.com/schedule/

For all major ticketed events at Climate Pledge Arena, guests receive a free public transit pass alongside their ticket. If driving to the arena, there are three parking garages available nearby. Find more information on navigating to the arena here.

Seattle Sounders FC

Upcoming games at Lumen Field

• Saturday, June 22 at 7:30 PM: FC Dallas
• Saturday, June 29 at 7:30 PM: Chicago Fire
• https://www.soundersfc.com/schedule/

Seattle Reign FC

• Sunday, June 23 at 3:00 PM: Racing Louisville FC
• https://www.reignfc.com/schedule

If you’re riding the Link light rail, get off at the International District/Chinatown station and walk a short three blocks over to the field. If taking rideshare, get off on the Northside by King St. & Occidental or on the South side by Royal Brougham & Occidental. If driving, the Lumen Field Parking Garage south of the stadium and a North Lot. Both open at 6am on event days and close 2 hours post event. Biking, scooting, walking, or rolling to the game may also be great options, depending on your trip specifics. Find more information on navigating to Lumen Field here .

Community events

Please note: We’ve highlighted several upcoming community celebrations below – but this is not intended as a comprehensive list of every event in the city. We hope you enjoy taking part!

June 19: Juneteenth Summer of Soul – Jimi Hendrix Park

To celebrate the resilience and strength of Black communities in Seattle and beyond, Africatown Community Land Trust and King County Equity Now are hosting live performances and family activities. Find more information about the event here.

Jimi Hendrix Park is located between 23rd Ave S and MLK Jr Way S near I-90, and can be reached by King County Metro bus or transferring from Sound Transit light rail ( Mount Baker Station is closest to the park).

June 22: Seattle Marathon’s Summer 5K/10K/Half Marathon and Kids Fun Run – Seward Park

This annual run captures stunning views of Lake Washington and Mt Rainier. There are categories for kids, and furry friends are allowed on the run as well. Some streets surrounding the Seward Park region may be temporarily closed during the run. You can find more information about the event here .

Seward Park can be reached by King County Metro bus.

June 22-23: Fremont Fair

This annual summer fair brings the community together to shop from 200+ craft vendors, hosts two stages for visitors to enjoy live music from, and share a bite with friends and family. You can find more information about the fair here .

For more detailed guidance on getting to the fair, check out our previous blog post .

June 29: PrideFest Capitol Hill

This celebration dedicates six blocks of Broadway and Cal Anderson Park for visitors to shop local businesses, lounge at the beer garden, and enjoy the atmosphere while uplifting Seattle’s LGBTQIA+ community. The event runs from noon-8 PM. Find more information about the festival here .

Pridefest can be reached by King County Metro bus or Sound Transit light rail (the Capitol Hill Station is closest). Or, depending on your trip, walking, biking, or rolling might be great ways for you to get to the festival.

June 30: Seattle Pride Parade 2024

This year is Seattle’s 50th annual Pride Month celebration. The parade starts at Westlake Park and will travel throughout Downtown Seattle. Enjoy Washington’s largest parade and celebrate hundreds of community groups, nonprofits, and companies to close out the celebration of Pride Month. Find more information about the event here .

We hope this post provided you with useful tips and tools to help you travel throughout Seattle as these construction and community events all take place. Stay tuned for more blog posts like this throughout the summer. Thank you!

Editor’s note – June 20, 2024: We updated this post to add a work activity in the WSDOT information section.

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• Law & Justice

Seattle schools ponder clear backpacks, required IDs to improve safety

Seattle Public Schools may require high school students to use clear backpacks, wear IDs inside the buildings and remain on campus during lunch as part of a new set of safety and security protocols in the next school year.

Those measures will be in addition to $2 million in new funds the district is allocating to beef up safety and security measures around schools.

These efforts are part of increased security and safety support the district is mulling after the June 6 shooting at Garfield High School, which left 17-year-old student Amarr Murphy-Paine dead.  

“Business as usual in the wake of such a tragedy is unfathomable,” Superintendent Brent Jones said in a letter to families and staff on Tuesday.

Jones and district and school leaders will discuss some of the safety proposals over the summer and decide which ones to implement in fall 2024.

SPS will also expand gun violence prevention programs in high schools and ramp up mental health supports for students systemwide, he said.

Since the early June tragedy, the Garfield community has been discussing proposals to ensure students’ safety.

The school’s parent-teacher organization, for example, has floated a pilot program to return school resource officers to the school, along with site-based mental health workers to help students. The district removed school resource officers in 2020 after national protests following George Floyd’s death.

Some Garfield students, in the meantime, have proposed setting up a text-messaging alert system to warn students of danger near campus and employing additional therapists and mental health professionals. The Seattle Student Union, a student activist group which opposes putting police officers in schools, also wants more therapists in the buildings.

“This violence has deeply affected us and re-injured our already grieving community still grappling with the impact of similar acts of gun violence,” Jones wrote. “We are committed to taking concrete steps to enhance the safety of our school environments.”

The district already has a tip line to report threats, which Jones urged the community to use. The number is 206-252-0510.

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Are Planes Safe Right Now? Here’s What the Experts Say.

You should expect the unexpected while flying, but few disruptions should provoke serious concern, aviation experts say.

By Niraj Chokshi and Christine Chung

Smoke in the cabin. A tire blowout. A cracked windshield. No shortage of problems can affect a flight, fueling traveler anxiety and contributing to thousands of daily delays and cancellations around the world.

But for all of the frustration and alarm such events cause, it can be difficult to interpret and understand their severity. Here’s how aviation safety experts say travelers should think about disruptions when they occur.

Problems happen.

Several alarming air travel incidents have made headlines in recent weeks — a sharp plunge toward an ocean, an unnerving wobble that damaged the tail of a plane and an aborted departure after an apparent engine fire .

But the most common mishaps and malfunctions, even if hair-raising, are not typically severe, experts said.

A hydraulic leak, for example, is a familiar occurrence that pilots take seriously, but it is not as disruptive as it may sound. That’s because planes have backup hydraulic systems, which are used to power equipment like the landing gear, brakes, wing flaps and flight controls, allowing planes to take off, fly and land. A plane veering off a runway, in what is known as a runway excursion, makes for captivating video and a possibly terrifying experience for those on board. But it doesn’t necessarily cause significant damage to an airplane or threaten the safety of those on board.

The same is true of the wide range of mechanical or maintenance issues that can come up before takeoff, which might force a pilot to hold a plane at its gate or return to the gate from taxiing. Those incidents are important to understand and address, but they are often minor, experts said.

“The pilots are saying, ‘I’ve been highly trained, I’m highly educated in this airplane, and we have to return to the gate and get the experts involved out of an abundance of caution,’” said Shawn Pruchnicki, a former airline pilot and an assistant professor at the Center for Aviation Studies at Ohio State University. “That is the system working perfectly. That’s a good thing.”

Sometimes, such problems can derail a flight or take an airplane out of commission. But in other cases, they can be fixed quickly. And because airplanes are packed with fail-safes, there are times when a flight with a malfunctioning system can safely proceed simply by relying on one or more backups instead.

Flying is a complex, gravity-defying feat that’s repeated thousands of times each day in a wide range of conditions. So travelers should not be surprised when things go wrong, said Amy Pritchett, a pilot and professor of aerospace engineering at Pennsylvania State University.

“Little small components will always start to burn out or break,” she said. “There will always be potholes in the pavement in the taxiway that jostles something. There’s always questions of whether the weather is good enough to fly, whether you might hit turbulence or not. All these things are sources of variability that need to be actively managed.”

Flying is safe.

Another thing for travelers to keep in mind is that serious flight problems are extremely rare, experts said.

Flying is safer than driving or traveling by train in part because safety is built into the design of everything from air traffic control to the airplane itself. Important systems and procedures have backups, there are rarely single points of failure, pilots receive intensive and repeated training, and airlines prepare for a wide range of possible outcomes.

“It’s the safest form of transportation ever designed by humankind,” said John Cox, a former airline pilot who runs a safety consulting firm. “Be careful driving to the airport.”

Over the past several decades, commercial aviation safety in the United States has improved more than fortyfold, according to a 2022 analysis of commercial aviation safety conducted by the National Academies.

According to the National Transportation Safety Board, typical causes of accidents include turbulence, hard landings, collisions on the ground with other planes or vehicles, and component failures, such as a malfunctioning wing flap or engine.

Flying is so safe in part because the industry generally responds to every problem, even those that pose little threat. In the United States, airlines, manufacturers and agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration and the N.T.S.B. are constantly monitoring and reviewing risks and hazards in air travel.

“The level of systems that are in place monitoring current-day commercial air transport are profound,” Ms. Pritchett said. But this doesn’t mean that anyone involved can lose vigilance in assessing the possibility of danger, she added.

And while trips are occasionally cut short, experts said, diverting a flight from its destination generally reflects due caution by pilots, airlines and air traffic controllers, not a life-threatening emergency. “Could we continue to our destination?” said Kenneth Byrnes, a pilot and an associate professor who leads the flight training department at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. “Yes, but is it the safest thing to do?”

Placing blame is complicated.

Because aviation is complex and defined by redundancy, problems rarely have a singular cause. Instead, most serious problems — even catastrophic ones — are a result of multiple factors.

“There’s never a smoking gun, so to speak,” Mr. Pruchnicki said. “There’s never this ‘aha’ moment, when we’re going through wreckage or we’re going through records and we say, ‘Ah, I found the single reason this plane crashed.’”

Take the episode early last year in which two planes nearly hit each other on a runway at Kennedy International Airport. The National Transportation Safety Board found that several factors had contributed to what could have otherwise been a disaster.

The pilots of one plane were distracted as they proceeded down the wrong taxiway, the agency found. At the same time, the air traffic controller who gave them instructions didn’t notice because his focus was elsewhere. And a runway status light activated too late to warn the pilots of the mistake, the agency concluded.

In investigating such incidents, placing blame is not only difficult, but also generally discouraged, experts said. Kyra Dempsey, who writes about aviation accidents in a blog, Admiral Cloudberg , said that “the blameless post-mortem is a cornerstone of modern aviation safety,” facilitating an open safety culture in which people are willing to report concerns .

Mr. Cox, the pilot turned consultant, said that “aviation accident investigators are really more interested in understanding cause than assigning blame because our job is to see that it doesn’t happen again.” Instead, “the lawyers get into blame,” he said.

Perspective is important.

When a mishap occurs, it’s important to keep some context in mind, experts said.

A casual observer might notice, for example, that many problems seem to affect two types of planes: Boeing 737s and Airbus A320s. But those plane families make up more than half of the commercial jets in service, so they are naturally reflected most in news coverage.

Experts also warned against confirmation bias. When an airline or a manufacturer figures in a headline-generating episode, the media and the public tend to be on alert for other problems involving the company, even those that have little to do with the company or that might not even be significant enough to attract much attention from safety agencies.

“When something happens, you need time to discover and learn about exactly what happened, and why did it happen,” said Jeff Guzzetti, a former accident investigator for the F.A.A. and the N.T.S.B. “That’s something that you can’t do in a news cycle or even two news cycles.”

It can take the N.T.S.B. months, and sometimes more than a year, to conduct investigations, which culminate with safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.

After a fuselage panel blew off a 737 Max during a flight in January, Boeing was intensely scrutinized, and rightly so, experts said. But several also said they received many calls from reporters in the months afterward seeking comment on problems involving Boeing planes in cases that had little to do with the company.

“Just because it’s a Boeing airplane that has a mechanical problem doesn’t necessarily mean that has anything to do with Boeing,” Mr. Pruchnicki said.

In the episode involving the fuselage panel, the plane was virtually new, focusing attention on the manufacturer. But a manufacturer is probably not at fault when a problem occurs with a plane that was delivered years earlier and has been flying safely since, experts said.

Niraj Chokshi writes about aviation, rail and other transportation industries. More about Niraj Chokshi

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

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Huskies Land Safety from 2-Time Defending Illinois State Champs

Dan raley | 22 hours ago.

If you're going to play in the Big Ten, Jedd Fisch's University of Washington coaching staff apparently has surmised you need some highly successful Midwest football players to make that happen.

On Sunday night, safety/linebacker Donovan Robinson, who hails from Chicago's wide-reaching northern suburbs in Wilmette and and has been a fixture for two-time defending Illinois 8A state champion Loyola Academy, revealed he has committed to the Huskies, picking them over Missouri, Minnesota and Arizona.

A 3-star recruit, the 6-foot-3, 210-pound Robinson previously was pledged to Virginia, but de-committed three weeks ago. He also visited Iowa State.

He is the third player to announce a weekend commitment to the UW, joining edge rusher Victor Sanchez Hernandez from Mukilteo, Washington, and wide receiver Dezmen Roebuck from Marana, Arizona, giving the Huskies 10 2025 commits overall.

A towering presence in the secondary, Robinson was a starting free safety for the 14-0 Ramblers this past season, but could end up as a linebacker for the Huskies.

"Some coaches see me as a linebacker, some as a safety," he told the Chicago Sun-Times. "I really don't care where I play."

BREAKING: Three star LB Donovan Robinson has committed to Washington, he tells me. ☔️ He chose the Huskies over schools such as Arizona, Minnesota, and Missouri. Donovan is a top 85 LB in the NATION and a top 25 PLAYER in the state of Illinois. A scouting report from a… pic.twitter.com/7ZZhV1ZG3L — Leyton Roberts (@LeytonRoberts_) June 24, 2024

Robinson is fast enough that he scored on a 65-yard punt return this past season and a 26-yard interception return as a junior. He finished 2023 with 34 tackles, including 3 tackles for loss, and 4 pass break-ups and a pass theft.

This past season, the Ramblers had just one close game, a 23-21 victory over Mount Carmel, and won the state championship game 25-15 over Lincoln Way East, with Robinson leading his team with 8 tackles in the title matchup. They are 27-1 over the past two seasons. Robinson will serve as a captain this fall as Loyola goes for a third banner.

Returning punts is a welcome sidelight for him with his powerhouse team, with Robinson telling the Sun-Times, "A lot of people don't want to do it, but I love it. Trying to make people miss and score a touchdown is exciting."

Loyola Academy, which has won back-to-back football titles even after a head-coaching change, is located along the Lake Michigan shoreline just 3 miles from the Big Ten's Northwestern University and 20 miles from downtown Chicago.

For the latest UW football and basketball news, go to si.com/college/washington

Dan Raley has worked for the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, as well as for MSN.com and Boeing, the latter as a global aerospace writer. His sportswriting career spans four decades and he's covered University of Washington football and basketball during much of that time. In a working capacity, he's been to the Super Bowl, the NBA Finals, the MLB playoffs, the Masters, the U.S. Open, the PGA Championship and countless Final Fours and bowl games.