Lakewood, WA Crime Map

Lakewood Crime Map & Safety Guide: Understanding Crime in Lakewood, WA

Introduction to Lakewood, WA: A Vibrant Community with Safety in Focus

Nestled in Pierce County and part of the bustling Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area, Lakewood, Washington, is a dynamic city with a population of 60,564. Known for its proximity to natural beauty like the Puget Sound and its historical ties to military bases, Lakewood offers a blend of suburban charm and urban accessibility. With a population density of 1,370 people per square mile, it strikes a balance between community closeness and personal space. But how safe is Lakewood? Using our comprehensive crime data analysis, we've assigned Lakewood an overall crime score of 0.222, translating to a B+ safety grade—a promising indicator for residents and visitors alike. In this guide, we'll dive into Lakewood's crime statistics, safety trends, and provide actionable insights through our interactive Lakewood crime map.

Our analysis of 51 city blocks reveals a varied safety landscape: 49% of the city earns an A grade (safest), 39.2% scores a B (safe), 5.9% falls to a C (average), and another 5.9% receives a D (below average). Notably, no areas in Lakewood rank as high-crime with an F grade. Whether you're relocating, visiting, or simply curious about the Lakewood crime rate, this guide will help you understand the safety dynamics of this Pacific Northwest gem.

Understanding Crime in Lakewood, WA

Lakewood's overall crime index stands at 114, slightly above the national average of 100, indicating that crime rates here are marginally higher than typical U.S. cities of similar size. Breaking this down, the violent crime index is approximately 116, while property crime sits higher at around 127. This suggests that property crimes such as larceny/theft, burglary, and vehicle theft are more prevalent concerns compared to violent incidents like assault and robbery, though both categories exceed national averages.

Despite these figures, the distribution of crime grades across Lakewood shows that a significant majority of the city—over 88%—falls into the safe or safest categories. This means that while certain pockets experience more incidents, much of Lakewood offers a secure environment for families, workers, and retirees. Compared to broader regional trends in the Puget Sound area, Lakewood's crime profile aligns with many mid-sized cities near larger urban hubs, where property crime often outpaces violent crime due to economic disparities and population density. Curious about where these trends play out? Explore our interactive Lakewood crime map to see detailed safety grades across different parts of the city.

Factors Affecting Safety in Lakewood

Economic Influences on Crime

Economic conditions often play a role in shaping crime patterns, and Lakewood is no exception. With a median household income of $55,723, the city falls slightly below the national median, and 14.7% of residents live below the poverty line. Additionally, an unemployment rate of 5.5% and a labor force participation rate of 61% suggest that economic challenges could contribute to property crime rates, as financial stress sometimes correlates with incidents like theft or burglary. However, 23% of households earn over $100,000 annually, indicating a diverse economic landscape that supports varying levels of safety across the city.

Population Density and Urban Layout

Lakewood's population density of 1,370 per square mile creates a mix of tightly knit residential zones and more spread-out commercial areas. This density can influence crime, as busier, more crowded sections may see higher rates of opportunistic crimes like vehicle theft or larceny. Conversely, quieter, less dense areas often report fewer incidents, contributing to the high percentage of A and B safety grades in our analysis.

Historical and Cultural Context

Historically, Lakewood has evolved from a post-World War II suburban development into a diverse, modern city with strong military connections due to its proximity to major bases. This heritage fosters a tight-knit community spirit but also brings transient populations, which can sometimes impact crime trends through economic or social instability. Culturally, Lakewood embraces a blend of influences, from its scenic lakes to its role as a gateway to outdoor recreation, which shapes a lifestyle that values community vigilance—a factor that likely contributes to the city's relatively strong safety scores.

Living in Lakewood: Lifestyle and Demographics

Lakewood offers a unique blend of affordability and access to the amenities of the greater Seattle-Tacoma area. The cost of living index here is 103, just above the national average of 100, with housing costs (index of 105) being the primary driver. The median home value stands at $308,138, and homeownership is at 43%, while median rent is $1,095 per month, consuming about 30% of renters' income. These figures suggest a moderately affordable housing market for a city so close to a major metro hub, though some residents may feel financial strain, potentially influencing crime patterns.

Demographically, Lakewood is a diverse community with a median age of 36 years and an average family size of 2.9. About 44% of households are married, and 22% of residents hold a college degree. With 16.7% of the population being veterans, there's a notable military presence that adds to the city's unique character. The average commute time of 29 minutes reflects Lakewood's role as a commuter city, with many residents traveling to nearby urban centers for work. This blend of demographics creates a community that's family-oriented yet mobile, shaping both lifestyle and safety considerations.

Climate and Environmental Considerations in Lakewood

Lakewood's climate is quintessentially Pacific Northwest, with mild, wet winters and pleasant summers. The average temperature ranges from 42°F to 60°F, with July highs reaching around 75°F and January lows dipping to 33°F. Annual rainfall averages 41 inches, and snowfall is minimal at 12 inches per year, making it a relatively temperate place to live. However, one environmental concern stands out: earthquake risk. With a risk index of 243 (compared to a national average of 100), Lakewood is significantly more prone to seismic activity due to its location in the Cascadia Subduction Zone. While not directly tied to crime, natural disaster preparedness is a key aspect of overall safety for residents.

Using Our Interactive Lakewood Crime Map

Want to know how safe specific parts of Lakewood are? Our interactive Lakewood crime map is your go-to tool for understanding the city's safety landscape. Covering 51 analyzed city blocks, the map provides detailed crime grades ranging from A (safest) to D (below average), based on the latest data for violent and property crimes. Each grade reflects the relative risk of crime in different zones, helping you make informed decisions whether you're house-hunting, planning a visit, or just curious about Lakewood WA crime trends.

Navigating the map is simple: zoom in to explore specific areas, hover over sections to see their safety grades, and use the filters to focus on particular crime types like theft or assault. With 49% of Lakewood earning the top safety grade, you'll likely find plenty of secure spots, but the map also highlights where extra caution might be warranted. Dive into our Lakewood crime map today to get a clearer picture of safety where it matters most to you.

Safety Tips for Living in or Visiting Lakewood

Given Lakewood's crime profile, with property crimes like larceny, burglary, and vehicle theft being more common than violent incidents, residents and visitors can take practical steps to stay safe. Here are some tailored safety tips:

• Protect Your Property: Always lock your car, even for short stops, and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight. Installing motion-sensor lights or security cameras at home can deter potential burglars.
• Stay Aware in Busy Areas: With Lakewood's moderate population density, crowded commercial zones may see higher rates of petty theft. Keep personal belongings close and be mindful of your surroundings.
• Secure Your Home: Ensure doors and windows are locked, especially if you're in an area with a lower safety grade. Consider joining or starting a community watch group to boost local vigilance.
• Prepare for Violent Crime Risks: While less frequent, crimes like assault and robbery do occur above the national average. Avoid isolated areas at night and trust your instincts if a situation feels unsafe.
• Community Engagement: Lakewood's strong community ties can be a safety asset. Get to know your neighbors and report suspicious activity promptly to enhance collective security.

By staying proactive and informed, you can navigate Lakewood with confidence. Use our crime map to identify areas where these precautions might be most relevant.

Conclusion: Is Lakewood Safe? Explore the Data Yourself

Lakewood, Washington, offers a compelling mix of suburban appeal, cultural diversity, and proximity to major urban centers, but like any city, safety varies across its landscape. With an overall crime score of 0.222 (B+ grade) and nearly 88% of the city ranking as safe or safest, Lakewood presents a generally secure environment, though property crimes like theft and burglary remain above national averages. Understanding the Lakewood crime rate through our detailed statistics—such as a property crime index of 127 and violent crime index of 116—helps paint a clearer picture of what to expect.

Whether you're considering a move, planning a visit, or simply researching crime in Lakewood, our interactive Lakewood crime map is an invaluable resource. It breaks down safety grades across the city, empowering you to make informed decisions about where to live, work, or explore. From economic factors like a 14.7% poverty rate to environmental risks like earthquakes, we've covered the key elements that shape safety in this Pierce County hub. Curious about Lakewood safety in specific areas? Dive into our crime map now to explore the data firsthand and see why so many call this city home.