Safest Cities in Washington: Studying abroad is an exciting journey, but safety is a major concern for international students. If you’re planning to study in the United States, Washington State is a great choice. Washington State, home to top universities like the University of Washington and Washington State University, offers some of the safest cities for students.
With low crime rates, reliable public transport, and welcoming communities, it provides a secure and comfortable environment for studying and living. In this blog, we’ll explore the safest cities in Washington for international students in 2025, helping you find the best place to live and study with peace of mind.
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Top 10 Safest Cities in Washington
Looking for the safest cities in Washington to live and study? Whether you’re an international student or a resident, choosing a city with low crime rates, reliable public services, and a welcoming community is essential. Here are the top 10 safest cities in Washington in 2025, ensuring a secure and comfortable environment for all.
Camas
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Camas is a beautiful city near the Columbia River and is often regarded as one of the safest cities in Washington. It’s known for its friendly neighbourhoods and excellent schools. People here feel safe because the crime rate is very low. There are many parks and places to play, making it great for families as well. The city also has lovely walking trails and a big lake called Lacamas Lake where you can have fun. Camas is relatively quiet, and everyone knows their neighbours. This sense of community makes it one of the safest places in Washington.
Oak Harbor
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Oak Harbor is on Whidbey Island and is famous for its natural beauty. The city has a small-town feel with a very low crime rate, making it one of the safest cities in Washington for everyone. People love the waterfront parks and the fresh sea air. Oak Harbor has good schools and lots of fun activities like boating and fishing as well and one of the best areas to live in Washington D.C. for students.
Sammamish
Sammamish is a peaceful city with lots of greenery and parks. It’s a place where students feel safe because the crime rate is very low. The schools here are excellent, with many activities for kids and adults. Try visiting the bookshops in Washington D.C. nearby with your friends on weekends here. Sammamish has beautiful lakes and trails for walking and biking. The community is friendly, and neighbors often come together for events and celebrations.
Pullman
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Pullman is home to Washington State University, making it a lively but safe city. The crime rate is very low, and students feel secure here. The city has many parks and recreational areas where families can enjoy their time. Pullman is also known for its friendly community and great schools. The university brings a lot of cultural events and activities, making it an exciting place to live.
Kenmore
Kenmore is a lovely city on the north shore of Lake Washington. It’s a safe place with a very low crime rate. The city has beautiful parks and top-notch schools, making it ideal for families and students. Kenmore is also close to nature and with many things to do in Washington D.C. like hiking and biking. The community is friendly, and people often gather for local events and festivals. This close-knit feeling and natural beauty make Kenmore one of the safest cities in Washington.
West Richland
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West Richland is a small city with a very safe and friendly environment. The crime rate is low, making it a secure place for students. The city has many parks and recreational areas where people can relax and have fun. West Richland is also known for its excellent schools and welcoming community. The warm and secure atmosphere makes West Richland a great place to live.
Ridgefield
Ridgefield is a small, peaceful city with a very low crime rate. It’s known for its beautiful parks and lively community. Students feel safe here because everyone looks out for each other. Here you can also find many cheapest student accommodations in Washington D.C. for students. Ridgefield has good schools and many outdoor activities like hiking and bird watching. The city is also home to a large wildlife refuge, which is a great place to explore nature.
Snoqualmie
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Snoqualmie is a beautiful city known for its famous waterfall, Snoqualmie Falls. It’s a safe place with a very low crime rate, making it ideal for families. The city has many parks and trails where people can enjoy the outdoors. Snoqualmie also has excellent schools and a friendly community. The beautiful and secure environment makes Snoqualmie a top choice for families and students.
Enumclaw
Enumclaw is a small city with a welcoming and safe atmosphere. The crime rate is very low, and people feel secure living here. The city has many parks and open spaces where families can have fun. Here neighboursknow each other and often help out, making everyone feel safe. This combination of safety and community spirit makes Enumclaw a great place to live.
Bainbridge Island
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Bainbridge Island is a beautiful place and one of the safest cities in Washington. It’s known for its friendly community and excellent schools. The island has many parks, beaches, and trails where families can enjoy nature. People feel safe here because everyone looks out for one another. The island’s small-town feel and natural beauty make it one of the safest and most desirable places to live in Washington.
Factors That Make a City Safe for Students
When choosing a city for higher education, students and their families prioritize not only academic excellence but also overall safety, ensuring a secure and comfortable environment for learning and personal growth. Here are some key elements that contribute to making a city safe for students:
- Strong Police Presence: Washington has plenty of police officers ensuring safety, especially around schools and campuses.
- Campus Security: Universities have their own security teams, providing 24/7 protection for students.
- Safe Neighborhoods: Many areas near schools have community safety programs like neighborhood watch.
- Safety Education: Schools offer training on personal security and emergency procedures for students.
- Public Transport: The Metro and buses are safe, with cameras and staff keeping an eye on stations.
- Health Services: Universities provide medical and counseling support for students in need.
- Community Support: Many organizations help students with safety concerns and provide resources.
- Strict Safety Regulations: Schools must follow safety rules, ensuring a safe learning environment.
How to Stay Safe in Washington?
If you’re looking to stay safe in Washington, here are some tips for navigating the city. Washington D.C. offers a variety of safe neighborhoods, and knowing where to stay can make a big difference. Some of the safest cities in Washington include West Richland, Ridgefield and Snoqualmie, known for their friendly communities and well-maintained public spaces. Here are a few key safety tips for staying safe in Washington:
- Stay in Safe Neighborhoods: Choose neighborhoods known for their safety, like West Richland or Ridgefield. These areas have low crime rates and offer plenty of amenities.
- Use Public Transportation: The Metro system is generally safe and reliable. Stick to well-lit stations and avoid empty trains late at night.
- Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night in less busy areas, and stay on well-lit streets.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep valuables in a secure place, like a locked bag or wallet, to avoid becoming a target for theft.
- Know Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local police and medical services, just in case.
Best Areas to Live in Washington for Students
Washington D.C. has many great places for students to live, offering safety, affordability, and easy access to universities. Here are some of the best areas to live in Washington, each offering unique attractions, local amenities, and public transportation.
Area | Distance from City Center | Google Rating |
Capitol Hill | 2 miles | 4.0/5 |
Georgetown | 1.5 miles | 4.5/5 |
Columbia Heights | 4 miles | 4.2/5 |
Dupont Circle & Logan Circle | 1 mile | 4.4/5 |
Petworth | 3.5 miles | 4.3/5 |
Hope you liked reading about the safest cities in Washington. Reach out to Fly Homes now at 1800572118 to secure the finest accommodation abroad.
FAQs on the Safest Cities in Washington
The safest cities in Washington include Camas, Oak Harbor, Sammamish, Pullman, Kenmore, West Richland, and Ridgefield.
No, Seattle is not typically listed among the safest cities in Washington due to its higher crime rates compared to smaller towns.
Washington is generally a safe state to live in, especially in smaller cities and suburban areas with lower crime rates.
Seattle has higher crime rates than many smaller cities in Washington, so it is not considered as safe as the safest cities in the state.
Seattle is generally considered safer than Chicago, which has higher rates of violent crime.
Safety is often determined by factors like low crime rates, community involvement, effective local law enforcement, emergency services, and well-maintained infrastructure.
Sammamish is often cited as one of the cities with the lowest crime rates in Washington, offering a peaceful and secure environment for residents.
Yes, many of the Safest Cities in Washington are family-friendly, offering excellent schools, parks, recreational facilities, and a strong sense of community.
Staying safe in the Safest Cities in Washington involves being aware of your surroundings, using neighborhood watch programs, participating in local safety initiatives, and staying informed about local crime trends.
Yes, smaller towns like Camas and Maple Valley are considered among the Safest Cities in Washington, offering a mix of suburban and rural living with low crime rates.
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