A new nationwide analysis of FBI crime data has placed Washington among the states with the highest rates of overnight residential burglaries in the United States. The report also found that two Washington cities Seattle and Spokane rank among the country’s worst for break-ins that occur while residents are most likely to be asleep, raising new concerns about home security across the state.
According to a new study analyzing 2024 FBI crime data, Washington ranks as the second-highest state in the nation for overnight residential burglaries. Researchers focused on burglaries that occurred between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., when most people are at home and asleep. The report found Washington experienced approximately 61.3 overnight residential burglaries per 100,000 residents, trailing only North Dakota. The findings highlight a statewide trend that places Washington well above the national average for nighttime home break-ins. Researchers note that overnight burglaries are particularly concerning because they increase the likelihood of residents encountering intruders, creating a greater risk of injury or violent confrontation compared to daytime property crimes.
The study also ranked the 100 largest cities in the United States, with Seattle recording the highest overnight residential burglary rate in the country at roughly 235 incidents per 100,000 residents. Spokane ranked third nationwide, with approximately 182 overnight burglaries per 100,000 residents, placing both Washington cities near the top of the national list. While the rankings are based on reported crime statistics and do not reflect the risk of any specific neighborhood, they provide a broader picture of where overnight residential burglaries are occurring most frequently across the country.
Security experts say homeowners can reduce their chances of becoming victims by taking several simple precautions. Locking all doors and windows before bed, installing motion-activated outdoor lighting, using video doorbells or security cameras, and keeping valuables out of sight can all help deter potential burglars. Alarm systems and neighborhood watch programs can also provide an added layer of protection. While no security measure can eliminate crime entirely, researchers say these proactive steps can significantly reduce opportunities for overnight break-ins. Although Washington continues to rank among the nation’s leaders in overnight residential burglaries, officials emphasize that many communities remain safe and that crime trends can vary significantly between neighborhoods. The report should be viewed as a statewide snapshot rather than a prediction of individual risk.
As Seattle, Spokane, and communities across Washington continue investing in crime prevention and public safety efforts, the findings serve as a reminder for residents to stay alert and take practical steps to protect their homes and families.