Washington, MO Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Washington, MO

What is Washington, MO's overall crime grade?

Washington, MO earns an overall crime grade of A for 2026 — one of the strongest safety ratings a city can receive. This top-tier grade reflects a community where both violent and property crime rates sit well below national benchmarks. With a population of approximately 14,052 residents spread across a modest density of 571 people per square mile, Washington benefits from the kind of close-knit, neighborly environment that naturally discourages criminal activity. The city's 3% unemployment rate and median household income of $66,779 are both indicators that correlate strongly with lower crime, and Washington's numbers bear that out in its A-level performance.

How does Washington's crime rate compare to other Missouri cities?

Washington's A crime grade places it among the safest communities in Missouri. Cities of similar or larger size frequently earn C or D grades, making Washington's performance notably above average. Its poverty rate of just 6.5% — significantly lower than the Missouri state average — is one of the key statistical drivers behind this outcome. A low poverty rate and a stable unemployment rate of 3% together create economic conditions that researchers consistently link to reduced crime frequency. Residents here are statistically far less likely to experience property crime or violent crime than residents of comparable Missouri municipalities.

What types of crime are most commonly reported in Washington, MO?

Consistent with its A overall crime grade, Washington's reported incidents skew heavily toward lower-severity offenses. Property-related incidents — such as minor theft, vandalism, and vehicle-related offenses — make up the majority of what does get reported, which is typical for small Midwestern cities of Washington's size and density (571 residents per square mile). Violent crime incidents are comparatively rare. The city's median home value of $167,375 and median rent of $771 suggest a stable, owner-occupied housing landscape, which research ties to lower rates of both property crime and neighborhood disorder. Residents near the historic downtown district and areas along the Katy Trail corridor consistently report feeling safe day and night.

Is Washington, MO a safe place to live in 2026?

By virtually every measurable standard, yes — Washington, MO is a safe place to live in 2026. The city's A crime grade is backed by a low poverty rate of 6.5%, a 3% unemployment rate, and a median household income of $66,779, all of which are economic indicators that strongly predict community safety. With a total population of just over 14,000, Washington is large enough to offer full amenities yet small enough that law enforcement can maintain meaningful community presence. Affordable housing — with a median home value of $167,375 and median rent of just $771 — keeps economic stress low for residents, another factor that supports the city's strong safety profile.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Washington, MO?

Washington's A overall crime grade means that safety is broadly distributed across the city rather than concentrated in just one or two pockets. That said, neighborhoods near the historic downtown district are frequently cited by residents as particularly family-friendly, benefiting from high foot traffic, active local businesses, and strong community visibility. Areas close to the Katy Trail and Cedar Heights are also noted for well-maintained properties and engaged neighborhood associations — both of which are statistically associated with lower crime. Because Washington's density is a moderate 571 people per square mile, most residential zones enjoy the dual benefit of community familiarity without the anonymity that higher-density urban environments can produce.

How does Washington's economic profile affect its crime rate?

Economics and crime are deeply intertwined, and Washington's data tells a reassuring story. The city's 3% unemployment rate is well below both state and national averages, meaning the vast majority of working-age residents are employed. Its poverty rate of 6.5% is substantially lower than the U.S. average of roughly 12–13%, reducing the financial desperation that often drives opportunistic crime. A median household income of $66,779 and affordable housing costs — median home value $167,375, median rent $771 — mean that most households are not financially strained. Together, these figures help explain why Washington holds an A crime grade: economic stability is one of the single strongest predictors of community safety, and Washington scores well across the board.

Should I use a crime map before moving to Washington, MO?

Using a crime map is always a smart step in any relocation decision, even for a city with an A crime grade like Washington, MO. A crime map lets you visualize where the small number of incidents that do occur are geographically concentrated, so you can make a fully informed choice about specific streets or neighborhoods. Given that Washington's overall safety profile is strong — supported by a 6.5% poverty rate, 3% unemployment, and a population density of 571 per square mile — most prospective residents will find that the map reinforces rather than complicates their decision. The Washington Police Department's official page is a reliable starting point for current, locally sourced incident data.