Central Tacoma Neighborhood, Tacoma

Crime Rate & Statistics

B+

Above-average safety — lower crime than most neighborhoods

Safer than 41% of neighborhoods in Tacoma

Safety at a Glance

Overall Crime Moderate
Low 128 / 300 High
Violent Crime 123
23% above national avg
Property Crime 123
23% above national avg
City Ranking
41%
safer than other
Tacoma neighborhoods

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in Tacoma

Is Central Tacoma Safe?

Yes — this neighborhood is safer than most. Central Tacoma in Tacoma, WA has a safety grade of B+. The overall crime index is 128, which is 28% above the national average of 100. Central Tacoma is safer than 41% of neighborhoods in Tacoma.

Compared to the Tacoma average (crime index 122), Central Tacoma is 6% higher in overall crime. Crime levels here are roughly in line with the city average.

Looking at specific crime types, assault is the most elevated concern (index: 143, 43% above average), while burglary is the lowest risk (index: 105).

Highest Risk
Assault · Index 143 (43% above avg)
Lowest Risk
Burglary · Index 105 (5% above avg)

Central Tacoma Crime Breakdown

Crime indices compared to national average (100) and Tacoma city average. Higher values mean more crime.

Crime Type Index vs National Risk Level
Violent Crime
Murder
117 +17% Moderate
Assault
143 +43% Moderate
Robbery
115 +15% Moderate
Rape
115 +15% Moderate
Property Crime
Burglary
105 +5% Moderate
Larceny / Theft
140 +40% Moderate
Vehicle Theft
125 +25% Moderate

How Central Tacoma Compares

Crime index by category: Central Tacoma vs Tacoma average vs national average.

Crime by Category

Overall Crime Comparison

Central Tacoma Crime Map

Crime heatmap based on block-group level data. Red areas indicate higher crime density.

Full Screen Map
Crime Level: Low Below Avg Average Above Avg High

See the crime score for a specific address

Central Tacoma Demographics & Context

Population
18,131
Median Income
$66,850
Home Value
$478,255
Median Age
37
Pop. Density
4,373/mi²

Education

Bachelor's Degree 15.1%
Graduate Degree 10.6%

Housing

49%
51%
Owner-occupied Renter-occupied

Racial Demographics

White 63.2%
Black 14.1%
Hispanic 9.3%
Asian 7%

Nearby Neighborhoods

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the crime rate in Central Tacoma, Tacoma?

Central Tacoma in Tacoma, WA has a crime safety grade of B+ as of 2026. The overall crime index is 128, which is 28% above the national average. Compared to the Tacoma average, crime in Central Tacoma is 6% higher. Central Tacoma is safer than 41% of neighborhoods in Tacoma.

Is Central Tacoma a safe neighborhood in Tacoma?

Central Tacoma is generally considered a safe neighborhood in Tacoma, earning a crime grade of B+. The highest concern is Assault (index: 143), while Burglary is the lowest risk (index: 105).

How does Central Tacoma compare to the rest of Tacoma?

Central Tacoma's overall crime index is 128, compared to the Tacoma average of 122. This means crime in Central Tacoma is 6% higher than the city average. For violent crime, the index is 123, and for property crime it is 123. However, crime can vary block by block, so checking the crime map for specific streets is recommended.

What type of crime is most common in Central Tacoma?

The most prevalent crime type in Central Tacoma is Assault, with a crime index of 143 (43% above the national average). Violent crime is a particular concern in this neighborhood relative to property crime.

What are safer neighborhoods near Central Tacoma?

Nearby neighborhoods with good safety ratings include Fircrest, West End, St Helens and North Tacoma. These areas are close to Central Tacoma and offer lower crime rates, making them worth considering for residents who prioritize safety.

What are the demographics of Central Tacoma?

Central Tacoma has a population of approximately 18,131. The median household income is $66,850. The median home value is $478,255. Research shows that economic factors can correlate with crime rates, though many other variables play a role in neighborhood safety.

How does Central Tacoma crime compare to the national average?

Central Tacoma's overall crime rate is 28% above the national average (index 128 vs 100). Within Tacoma, it is safer than 41% of neighborhoods. For the most accurate picture, review the per-crime-type breakdown above, as some categories may differ significantly from the overall trend.

Crime data sourced from FBI UCR reports and local law enforcement agencies. Crime indices use 100 as the national average. Updated April 2026.