Kent, WA Crime Rate & Safety

Kent, WA has a crime safety grade of C as of 2026. The overall crime rate is estimated to be 14% above the national average. Residents face approximately a 1 in 239 chance of being a victim of violent crime per year and a 1 in 36 chance for property crime. Kent has higher crime than 76% of major U.S. cities (population 50,000+).

Kent has a moderate level of crime with a safety grade of C. Approximately 94% of the city's 16 neighborhoods are rated A or B for safety. However, safety varies significantly by neighborhood. For example, Meridian Heights is one of the safest areas, while O'Brien has higher crime rates. Researching specific neighborhoods before moving to or visiting Kent is strongly recommended.

Based on 2026 crime data, the safest neighborhoods in Kent are Meridian Heights, Lake Morton / Berrydale, Cambridge & Kentwood, Timberlane, and Meridian Valley Country Club. These areas have significantly lower crime rates than the city average and are popular choices for families, professionals, and anyone prioritizing safety.

The neighborhoods with the highest crime rates in Kent include O'Brien, North Park, Mill Creek / Kent, South Kent, and The Lakes. These areas experience significantly more crime than the city average. Visitors and prospective residents should exercise extra caution in these neighborhoods, particularly at night.

The estimated violent crime rate in Kent is 418.4 per 100,000 residents, which is 10% higher than the national average. This means residents have roughly a 1 in 239 chance of becoming a violent crime victim each year. Key violent crime rates include: murder at 5.8 per 100K (16% above average); aggravated assault at 235.9 per 100K (12% below average); robbery at 119.0 per 100K (61% above average).

The estimated property crime rate in Kent is 2,804.4 per 100,000 residents, which is 53% higher than the national average. Residents have roughly a 1 in 36 chance of being a property crime victim per year. Key property crime rates include: burglary at 303.0 per 100K (12% above average); larceny/theft at 2,048.5 per 100K (46% above average); vehicle theft at 452.9 per 100K (42% above average).

Kent's overall crime rate is 14% above the national average as of 2026. The biggest concern is rape (72% above average), while assault is 12% below average. Compared to other major U.S. cities, Kent has higher crime than 76% of them.

Visitors to Kent should take standard urban precautions. Property crime (theft, vehicle break-ins) is 53% above average, which is typically the main concern for tourists. Avoid leaving valuables in vehicles, stay aware of your surroundings in unfamiliar areas, and stick to well-traveled neighborhoods. Popular, safer areas for visitors include Meridian Heights, Lake Morton / Berrydale, Cambridge & Kentwood.

Washington as a whole has crime that is 11% above the national average. Kent's crime rate is 14% above the national average, making it more dangerous than the typical Washington city.

Larceny/theft is the most common crime in Kent, with an estimated rate of 2,048.5 incidents per 100,000 residents. This is 46% above the national average for this crime type. Overall, property crime (2,804 per 100K) is more prevalent than violent crime (418 per 100K) in Kent, which is consistent with national trends.