Crime rate relatively low in downtown Seattle; are there places to avoid?

It turns out downtown Seattle is not most dangerous neighborhood, according to a story in The Seattle Times.

Seven percent of crime happens downtown (about a half a square mile), the Times reports.

But despite downtown not being a haven for crime – except 3rd and Pike, which has its own Twitter account – it does not mean it doesn’t exist in the city.

Different areas of Seattle have their own problems with crime. Beacon Hill, for example, has high reports of home burglary. Boat theft and DUIs are issues in Ballard. And Northgate and stadium parking is popular for car break-ins and theft.

Are there safety concerns?

“If I were to drive you around – blindfolded – let’s say in the trunk, just for fun, are there certain areas where you would not want to be dropped off?” John Curley asked Tom Tangney on KIRO Radio’s Tom and Curley Show.

A neighborhood that Tom was unfamiliar with would certainly be a reason for concern. However, a place he is familiar with – at any time of day – would be OK.

“Certainly not downtown,” Tom responded. “I’m downtown all the time.”

Though he’s been mugged multiple times, John said it’s never happened in Seattle. However, John said there are still some areas of Seattle he wouldn’t want to find himself alone in at night.