Safety in Olympia
Detailed safety data — sourced from authoritative datasets and normalized for direct comparison.
Safety in Olympia, Washington
Olympia's safety profile presents a mixed picture. The overall crime rate in Olympia is 4,332 per 100,000 people, which is about 68% to 89% higher than the national average. This places Olympia in the 10th percentile for safety, meaning it is safer than only 10% of cities in the US. Violent crimes are 57% higher than the national average, with a 1 in 178 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime. Property crime is also higher than the national average, with a 1 in 30 chance of being a victim.
However, crime rates have seen a 9% decrease year-over-year. Residents generally consider the south part of the city to be the safest, with a 1 in 35 chance of being a victim of crime, compared to 1 in 9 in central neighborhoods. While some neighborhoods like Olympia Downtown have a higher crime index than the city average, areas like Bigelow Highlands, East Bay Drive, Eastside, and Upper Eastside are noted for good safety ratings.
Safety Scores
About Olympia, Washington
Olympia, Washington, the state capital, is a vibrant city nestled at the southern tip of Puget Sound. Known for its stunning natural beauty, including views of the water and mountains, Olympia offers a unique blend of urban amenities and a small-town feel. The city attracts residents with its relaxed yet engaged atmosphere, strong sense of community, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. It's a place where skilled craftsmen, from chefs and coffee roasters to brewers and vintners, thrive, contributing to a rich local culture.
Olympia's history is deeply intertwined with its role as the state capital, which provides a stable employment base in government. The city's commitment to education is also a draw, with highly-rated public schools and various educational opportunities. People are drawn to Olympia for its desirable lifestyle, which offers a balance between career opportunities and a high quality of life, all without the exorbitant costs often found in larger West Coast cities.