7 Safest Places to Live in the Seattle Area

The Seattle area is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the US, and it’s clear to see why. With its breathtaking natural beauty, ample variety of restaurants, and plenty of job opportunities, Seattle has drawn people in for years. With the beach and the mountains only a one-hour drive apart, nature lovers and adventure seekers can paddleboard, kayak, snowboard, ski, or hike all in a day. 

On the other hand, Seattle has seen some pretty significant increases in both violent and property crime, which has left some Seattlites wondering if they would be better off living in a nearby city. If you are considering a move to the Seattle area, but are concerned about safety, here is a list of nearby towns and cities that may give you a bit more peace of mind. Having grown up all across the Puget Sound (thanks to my parents who were builders), I have all the insider info on these towns, so feel free to ask me any questions. 

1. Gig Harbor 

• Median Home Price: $652,823

• Median Price per Square Foot: $289

• Commute time to Seattle: 55 mins with no traffic / 1hr 20mins during rush hour

• Violent Crime Rate: 14.8 (on a scale of 1-100; Seattle is 32.3)

The gorgeous waterfront, ample number of parks, low crime rate, and housing affordability make Gig Harbor my number one pick for this list. This waterfront town has a small-town feel, but offers all the amenities you could want such as a movie theater, several shops, Costco, and a brand new bowling alley and arcade. With plenty of boat launches and moorage options, Gig Harbor is the perfect destination for those who love being on the water. The violent crime rate was higher than I expected, so I did some research and found that there is a small pocket in north Gig Harbor that has a higher crime rate, which has skewed the data. Rest assured most of Gig Harbor is very safe. With great schools and plenty of homes with big backyards and water views, this is a great choice for families looking to move from Seattle. For more info about Gig Harbor, check out this pros and cons list, and this list of fun things to do with the kids. 

2. Kirkland

• Median home price: $975,000

• Median price per sq ft: $523

• Commute time to Seattle: 15 minutes without traffic / 20 minutes with traffic

• Violent Crime Rate: 7.6 (on a scale of 1-100; Seattle is 32.3)

Kirkland has always been a desirable place to live, with its beautiful waterfront parks, cute shops, and variety of restaurants. With some of the best schools in the nation, Kirkland is a great choice for families. Tech companies have been moving out of the Seattle area and relocating to the Eastside as well, so this could indicate a future increase in property values in the coming years (and add to your home equity). Here is a  post about some more reasons why people love living in Kirkland. 

3. Edmonds 

• Median Home Price: $735,000

• Median Price per Sq Ft: $390

• Commute time to Seattle: 20 mins with no traffic / 35 minutes during rush hour

• Violent Crime Rate: 9.8 (on a scale of 1-100; Seattle is 32.3)

Only about a 20 minute drive to Seattle, Edmonds is physically close to Seattle, but feels as if it’s a world apart from the hustle and bustle of downtown Seattle. The Edmonds waterfront is absolutely stunning, and there are several cute shops and restaurants. If you’re craving a weekend getaway, take the ferry to Kingston for a fun adventure. 

4. Bainbridge Island

• Median home price: $998,000

• Commute time to Seattle:  35 minute ferry ride, plus any additional walk times to Seattle

• Median price per sq ft: $471

• Violent Crime Rate: 10 (on a scale of 1-100; Seattle is 32.3) 

If riding a ferry to work is more your style, you may want to consider a move to Bainbridge Island. This adorable island has a great downtown area close to the ferry that includes several gourmet restaurants, quaint coffee shops, and a movie theater. Does the Island life sound like it could be a good fit for you? Check out these homes online, and let me know when you would like a showing. 

5. Mercer Island

• Median home price: $1,810,000

• Median price per sq ft: $628

• Commute time to Seattle: 10 minutes without traffic / 15 minutes during rush hour

• Violent Crime Rate: 6.2 (on a scale of 1-100; Seattle is 32.3) 

With the lowest violent crime rate and closest proximity to Seattle, Mercer Island is the best of both worlds. A home here comes with a hefty price tag, though, with the median price per square foot around $628. If budget isn’t an issue, though, Mercer Island boasts some of the best schools in the country, fabulous parks, and gourmet restaurants. 

6. Dash Point / Browns Point

• Median home price: $526,500

• Median price per sq ft: $269

• Commute time to Seattle: 30 minutes without traffic / 45 mins during rush hour

• Violent Crime Rate: 8.9 (on a scale of 1-100; Seattle is 32.3) 

Looking for a waterfront or view home that is close to Seattle but doesn’t break the bank? Dash Point and Browns Point (located right next to each other) may be right up your alley. Dash Point State Park has several trails to explore along with a huge sandy beach for the kids to play at. You’ll feel like you’re on a beach vacation--all while being only half an hour away from Seattle. 

7. Issaquah

• Median home price: $835,000

• Median Price per Sq Ft: $440

• Commute time to Seattle: 16 minutes without traffic / 25 mins during rush hour

• Violent crime rate: 7.8

Located in the picturesque foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Issaquah is a great town for those who enjoy fresh air, great hikes, and a friendly neighborhood. You can hike up Rattlesnake Ridge, then grab a bite to eat at one of Issaquah’s many restaurants. 

I have helped numerous clients move from the city, and no one has regretted their decision thus far. Buyers can get a better bang for their buck in suburban areas and can sleep more soundly knowing that their neighborhood is safe. Feel free to reach out to me via email, phone, or text if you have any questions or would like to schedule a home showing in any of these towns.