Washington State is more than just coffee, rain, and tech giants—it’s one of the best places to live in the U.S. in 2025 if you’re looking for safety, strong communities, and natural beauty. Whether you’re relocating for work, starting a family, or just looking for a fresh start in the Pacific Northwest, these five cities offer the perfect blend of livability, low crime rates, good schools, and lifestyle perks. Here are the 10 safest and best places to live in Washington State in 2025—based on local data, real resident reviews, and overall quality of life.
1. Sammamish – Safest City in Washington for Families
Consistently ranked among the safest cities in Washington, Sammamish is a dream come true for families. Located on a plateau just east of Seattle, it offers scenic lake views, exceptional schools (part of the Lake Washington School District), and a close-knit suburban vibe. According to the FBI’s latest Uniform Crime Report, Sammamish has one of the lowest violent crime rates in the entire state.
Highlights:
Median household income: ~$190,000
Crime rate: 70% lower than the national average
Top-rated schools, parks, and trails
Close to major tech hubs like Redmond and Bellevue
Cost of Living: High, but with excellent returns in safety and lifestyle.
2. Richland – Best for Affordable Safety & Growth
Located in the Tri-Cities region (alongside Kennewick and Pasco), Richland is one of the safest mid-sized cities in Washington and one of the most underrated places to live. With a growing tech and science sector—thanks to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory—Richland combines economic opportunity with low crime and affordable housing.
Highlights:
Median home price: ~$400,000 (well below the state average)
Known for clean streets, riverfront trails, and wine country access
Low violent crime rate and well-resourced police force
Growing job market in science, tech, and healthcare
Local Vibe: Quiet, well-planned, with a strong sense of community.
3. Mercer Island – Elite Living with Top-Tier Safety
If you want both luxury and security, Mercer Island is your spot. Nestled between Seattle and Bellevue, this upscale community is one of the safest and most desirable places to live in all of Washington. It’s popular with CEOs, doctors, and tech professionals, and for good reason—the schools are elite, the crime is low, and Lake Washington is your backyard.
Highlights:
Crime rate: Extremely low—especially property and violent crimes
Schools: Mercer Island School District is consistently top-rated
Commute: Only 10–15 minutes to downtown Seattle or Bellevue
Waterfront homes, yacht clubs, and lush trails
Cost of Living: Very high—but you’re paying for exclusivity and quality.
4. Bainbridge Island – Peaceful, Safe & Naturally Stunning
If you love island life but still need city access, Bainbridge Island is a hidden gem. A short ferry ride from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge offers small-town charm with big-city proximity. It’s consistently ranked among the safest cities in Washington, and its artsy, eco-friendly vibe attracts retirees, families, and remote workers alike.
Highlights:
Ferry to Seattle in ~35 minutes
Low crime, walkable downtown, and excellent schools
Surrounded by nature—beaches, forests, and mountain views
Home to boutique coffee shops, galleries, and local farms
Bonus: One of the best places in the state to raise kids or retire peacefully.
5. Pullman – Safest College Town in Washington
Don’t sleep on Pullman—it’s not just a college town. Home to Washington State University, Pullman has a strong safety record, thanks in part to its youthful energy and tight campus-community relationship. It also boasts affordable housing, beautiful Palouse landscapes, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights:
Home to WSU and vibrant college-town culture
Crime rate well below the national average
Affordable rent and real estate options
Family-friendly parks and a tight-knit community
Ideal For: Students, professors, first-time homeowners, and young families.
6. Redmond – Best for Tech Jobs & Family Safety
Redmond is where nature meets innovation. Home to Microsoft’s headquarters and a growing number of tech startups, Redmond offers great career opportunities and safe neighborhoods—making it perfect for young professionals, families, and remote workers alike. The city invests heavily in public safety and infrastructure, and it shows.
Highlights:
Extremely low violent crime rates
Excellent schools (Lake Washington School District)
Bike-friendly with over 30 miles of trails
Family-oriented communities like Education Hill and Overlake
Local Perk: Access to Lake Sammamish and one of the most beautiful city parks in the state—Marymoor Park.
7. Issaquah – Small-Town Feel with Big Safety
Nestled at the base of the Cascade Mountains, Issaquah offers a slower pace of life with quick access to Seattle. Known for its safety, stunning scenery, and excellent hiking trails, Issaquah is a favorite among families who want peaceful suburbs with modern conveniences.
Highlights:
Crime rate well below the national average
Great schools and child-friendly neighborhoods
Home to Cougar Mountain, Tiger Mountain, and the famous Issaquah Salmon Hatchery
Local farmer’s markets and cozy downtown cafés
Ideal For: Families, outdoor lovers, and those wanting access to Seattle without the chaos.
8. Bothell – Fast-Growing & Exceptionally Safe
Bothell is one of the fastest-growing cities in King and Snohomish counties, and it’s doing it right—with strong public safety, investment in schools, and a rapidly revitalized downtown. Despite the growth, Bothell has managed to retain its small-town charm and ranks as one of the top 10 safest places to live in Washington in recent years.
Highlights:
Walkable downtown with new restaurants, shops, and wine bars
Safe, family-friendly neighborhoods like Canyon Park and North Creek
Close to UW Bothell and Cascadia College
Near Woodinville Wine Country and easy access to I-405
9. West Richland – Hidden Gem with Low Crime
If you’re looking for small-town peace with excellent safety ratings, West Richland is a standout. It’s quieter than nearby Richland or Kennewick, but still close enough for easy commuting. West Richland has some of the lowest crime statistics in the entire Tri-Cities region and is quickly becoming a favorite for families and retirees.
Highlights:
Median home price under $425,000
Excellent safety stats and community policing
Family-friendly events, parks, and open spaces
Great place for biking, stargazing, and wine tasting
Local Vibe: Laid-back, affordable, and peaceful.
10. Anacortes – Coastal Living Meets Safety & Charm
Located on Fidalgo Island, Anacortes is best known as the gateway to the San Juan Islands—but it’s also one of the safest coastal cities in Washington. With a strong sense of community, stunning waterfront views, and access to outdoor adventures, Anacortes is ideal for nature lovers and retirees.
Highlights:
Low violent crime rate and friendly neighborhoods
Ferry access to Lopez, Orcas, and San Juan Island
Strong arts and boating culture
Great for remote workers or those looking for a peaceful lifestyle
Bonus: It’s a certified Gigabit City, meaning fast internet for remote work!
Final Thoughts: How We Ranked These Cities
Our picks are based on a combination of:
2025 local crime data
School district performance
Cost of living and housing trends
Resident satisfaction scores
Access to healthcare, green spaces, and job markets
Each city on this list offers a unique balance of safety, livability, and opportunity. Whether you’re seeking serene island life or a vibrant college community, Washington State has a place that fits.
If you’re considering a move, visit the official city websites, check out local Facebook groups, and spend a weekend exploring. You’ll quickly see why so many people are making the move in 2025.
FAQs: Best Places to Live in Washington State (2025)
Q: What is the safest city to live in Washington State in 2025?
A: Sammamish is widely considered one of the safest cities, thanks to its extremely low crime rates and strong community services.
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Q: What city in Washington has the best schools and is family-friendly?
A: Redmond and Bellevue both offer top-rated schools and are excellent for raising children.
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Q: What’s the most affordable safe place to live in Washington?
A: West Richland and Spokane Valley are more affordable options while still maintaining good safety records.
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Q: Where should I move in Washington for a balance of city life and nature?
A: Issaquah and Bothell offer suburban comfort with quick access to nature and downtown Seattle.
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Q: Is Washington State a good place to live in 2025?
A: Absolutely! Washington combines tech opportunities, stunning nature, and safe, well-planned communities—making it one of the best places to live in the U.S.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
