Twelve years ago, my home was broken into — an experience that still brings a wave of discomfort every time I recall it. The sense of safety shattered, the unsettling realization that someone had stepped into a space that should be sacred — it leaves a lasting impression.
Thankfully, things could’ve been far worse. My home in Yakima suffered only minor damage, and most importantly, my little dog Rusty was unharmed. For that, I’m forever grateful.
Though Yakima wasn’t the focal point of this particular story, it’s worth noting that the city does rank fairly high for violent crime in Washington, according to data from SafeHome.org. While we’ve been spared any violent encounters, property crime has touched our lives, as it has for many others across the state.
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Surprisingly, it’s not Seattle or Tacoma topping the charts for property crime in Washington — it’s Tukwila. As of August 2024, Tukwila holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest property crime rate in the state when adjusted for population.
That doesn’t mean Tukwila sees the most incidents overall, but when considering its relatively small population, the numbers stand out. Per capita, the rate surpasses even larger cities that tend to grab headlines more often.
Still, labeling Tukwila as a “bad” place would be an unfair assessment. Like any city, it has its challenges, but it also has plenty of strengths. According to AreaVibes.com, the city scores well in areas like affordable housing, local amenities, and accessibility — boasting a variety of parks, shops, and coffee spots that residents love. Commute times are also relatively short, and the city holds decent rankings in both education and employment opportunities.
Of course, there’s room for improvement. The cost of living remains high, and the crime rate — particularly involving property — is a concern for many. But cities are dynamic. With awareness, community involvement, and investment in public safety, statistics can change.
The fear of property crime is something I know firsthand. But it’s not the whole story of a city — and certainly not the only thing that defines it.
