Tacoma, WA Crime Map

Navigating the safety landscape of a city like Tacoma, Washington, is crucial for residents and visitors alike, and a Tacoma crime map is an essential tool for understanding local safety trends. With an average crime score of 0.209, Tacoma earns an overall crime grade of B+, reflecting a generally safe environment across its 16 analyzed neighborhoods. Notably, an impressive 88% of these neighborhoods achieve either an A or B grade, showcasing that the majority of areas in Tacoma offer a secure living experience. Whether you're considering a move to this vibrant city of 215,766 people in Pierce County or simply planning a visit, understanding the Tacoma crime rate and neighborhood-specific safety data can help you make informed decisions. This guide dives deep into the safest neighborhoods in Tacoma, areas requiring more caution, and key trends shaping crime in the city.

Understanding Tacoma's Safety Landscape

Tacoma, with a population density of 1,675 per square mile, is a bustling urban center in Pierce County, Washington. The city's demographic profile includes a median age of 36, a median household income of $64,457, and a median home value of $311,343. While 30% of residents are college-educated, the city faces challenges like a 13.8% poverty rate and a 4.9% unemployment rate, which can influence local crime dynamics. The Tacoma crime map provides a clear picture of safety across its neighborhoods, revealing that most areas are relatively secure with an average crime grade of B+. This data is vital for anyone seeking to understand Tacoma safety, whether for relocation, investment, or daily activities. For broader context on national crime trends, you can refer to authoritative sources like the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, which offers detailed statistics on crime across the United States.

The distribution of crime grades in Tacoma is particularly encouraging, with 43.8% of neighborhoods (7 out of 16) earning an A grade and another 43.8% receiving a B grade. Only 12.5% fall into the C category, indicating that crime in Tacoma is generally well-managed in most areas. This breakdown helps highlight where residents and visitors can feel most secure and where extra vigilance might be warranted. Understanding these patterns through the Tacoma crime map empowers individuals to choose neighborhoods that align with their safety priorities while appreciating the city's diverse cultural and economic landscape.

Safest Neighborhoods in Tacoma

For those seeking safe neighborhoods in Tacoma, the data points to several standout areas with exceptional crime grades. Leading the list is Fircrest, a small community of 6,774 residents with a crime grade of A and a median income of $87,661, reflecting a stable and secure environment. Browns Point/Northeast Tacoma follows closely, also earning an A grade, with a larger population of 20,504 and a median income of $110,855, making it an attractive option for families and professionals. Rustin, with just over 1,000 residents and a median income of $86,482, secures an A grade as well, offering a quiet, low-crime setting.

North Tacoma, home to 36,157 people and boasting a median income of $88,964, is another top-tier area with an A grade on the Tacoma crime map. University Place, with a population of 35,814 and a median income of $85,572, rounds out the top five safest neighborhoods, also earning an A. Other notably safe areas include Midland/Waller/Summit and West Slope, both with A- grades, as well as Parkland Area, Central Tacoma, and South End, which hold strong B+ ratings. These neighborhoods collectively demonstrate that Tacoma safety is a priority in many parts of the city, offering diverse options for those prioritizing low crime rates.

Areas Requiring Greater Awareness

While much of Tacoma boasts favorable crime grades, there are a few areas where residents and visitors may need to exercise additional caution. Neighborhoods like Hilltop and Downtown Tacoma both carry a C+ crime grade, indicating a higher incidence of reported incidents compared to the city's safer zones. These areas, often more urban and densely populated, can experience challenges related to property crime or occasional violent incidents. South Tacoma, with a B- grade, also falls slightly below the city average, suggesting a need for awareness, particularly after dark or in less populated areas.

Similarly, St Helens and West End, both with B grades, are generally safe but may have localized pockets where crime in Tacoma is more noticeable. It's important to approach these areas with a balanced perspective—while they may not rank as high as Fircrest or North Tacoma on the Tacoma crime map, they still offer vibrant communities with many positive attributes. Staying informed about local conditions, securing personal property, and remaining aware of surroundings can significantly enhance safety in these neighborhoods. For more detailed local crime data, resources like the Bureau of Justice Statistics provide valuable insights into regional trends.

Crime Trends and Local Factors

Understanding the Tacoma crime rate requires a closer look at the factors influencing safety across the city. With an overall crime grade of B+, Tacoma demonstrates a relatively low incidence of serious crime compared to national averages, though certain socioeconomic factors play a role in shaping local trends. The city's 13.8% poverty rate and 4.9% unemployment rate can contribute to property crimes in some areas, particularly in neighborhoods with lower median incomes. However, community policing efforts and local initiatives have helped maintain safety in many parts of Tacoma, as reflected in the high percentage of A and B-graded neighborhoods on the Tacoma crime map.

Violent crime in Tacoma remains below the levels seen in larger metropolitan areas, though it can vary by neighborhood. Property crimes, such as theft and burglary, tend to be more common, especially in areas with higher foot traffic like Downtown Tacoma. Seasonal trends also impact crime rates, with slight increases often noted during summer months due to increased outdoor activity. Additionally, Tacoma's population density of 1,675 per square mile means that urban areas may experience more frequent minor incidents simply due to the concentration of people and businesses. Despite these challenges, the overall picture of Tacoma safety remains positive, with ongoing efforts by local authorities to address crime hotspots and improve community well-being.

Another factor to consider is the city's demographic diversity and economic disparities. Neighborhoods with higher median incomes, like Browns Point/Northeast Tacoma, often report lower crime rates, likely due to greater access to resources and private security measures. In contrast, areas with economic challenges may see higher rates of petty crime. However, Tacoma's local government and community organizations are actively working to bridge these gaps through social programs and public safety initiatives. For residents and visitors, staying updated on crime in Tacoma through tools like the Tacoma crime map ensures a proactive approach to personal safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tacoma safe?

Tacoma is generally considered safe, with an overall crime grade of B+ based on data from 16 analyzed neighborhoods. A significant 88% of these neighborhoods earn either an A or B grade, indicating that most areas offer a secure environment for residents and visitors. While certain neighborhoods like Hilltop and Downtown Tacoma require more caution due to higher crime grades, the majority of the city, as shown on the Tacoma crime map, provides a safe living and visiting experience. Practicing standard safety measures can further enhance personal security in any part of the city.

What is the crime rate in Tacoma?

The Tacoma crime rate reflects a generally safe city, with an average crime score of 0.209 and an overall grade of B+. Of the 16 neighborhoods analyzed, 43.8% (7 neighborhoods) achieve an A grade, another 43.8% earn a B, and only 12.5% fall into the C category. This distribution highlights that crime in Tacoma is relatively low compared to national averages for cities of similar size. However, rates can vary by area, so consulting the Tacoma crime map is recommended for neighborhood-specific insights.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Tacoma?

The safest neighborhoods in Tacoma, based on crime data, include Fircrest, Browns Point/Northeast Tacoma, Rustin, North Tacoma, and University Place, all earning A grades on the Tacoma crime map. These areas report lower incidences of both violent and property crimes, making them ideal for families, professionals, and retirees seeking Tacoma safety. Other notably secure areas include Midland/Waller/Summit and West Slope with A- grades, offering additional options for those prioritizing low crime rates.

Is Tacoma a good place to live?

Tacoma can be a great place to live, offering a mix of urban amenities, scenic beauty, and a relatively affordable cost of living with a median home value of $311,343. The city's overall crime grade of B+ and the presence of many safe neighborhoods in Tacoma, such as Fircrest and North Tacoma, make it appealing for those seeking security. However, challenges like a 13.8% poverty rate and varying crime rates in certain areas mean prospective residents should research specific neighborhoods using tools like the Tacoma crime map. Overall, Tacoma's vibrant community, access to education, and ongoing safety improvements make it a viable choice for many.

Exploring Tacoma with Confidence

Armed with insights from the Tacoma crime map, residents and visitors can navigate this dynamic Washington city with greater confidence. With an overall crime grade of B+ and 88% of neighborhoods rated as safe, Tacoma offers numerous secure areas like Fircrest, Browns Point/Northeast Tacoma, and North Tacoma to call home or explore. While certain areas require heightened awareness, the broader picture of Tacoma safety is reassuring, supported by community efforts and local initiatives. Whether you're drawn to Tacoma for its cultural offerings, economic opportunities, or natural beauty, understanding the Tacoma crime rate and neighborhood dynamics ensures a well-informed and enjoyable experience in this Pacific Northwest gem.