The Top 7 Worst Things About Living in Spokane, Washington

Are you thinking about moving to Spokane, Washington? While it’s a beautiful place with many advantages, like any city, Spokane has its downsides. In this blog, we’ll dive into the top seven worst things about living in Spokane that you should be aware of before making the move.

1. Homelessness

One of the most noticeable issues in Spokane is the growing problem of homelessness. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in tent encampments and visible poverty, especially in downtown and certain neighborhoods. While the city is making efforts to address the issue, it's been a tough challenge. Spokane’s City Council is actively working on finding solutions, including smaller resource centers spread across neighborhoods to provide support.

However, not everyone is on board with these plans, and it remains a hot-button topic in the community. While homelessness may be a concern, some people moving from other states still find Spokane to be safer than where they came from.

2. Crime Rates

Although Spokane is generally a safe place, property crime has been an issue, especially in certain areas. Spokane’s property crime rate is higher than the national average, including vehicle break-ins, theft, and vandalism. Neighborhoods vary in safety, so it’s important to do your research.

A great tool to use is the Spokane County Crime Map, which helps you see where crime is more frequent and what types of crime are happening in specific areas. The good news is that property crime in Spokane has decreased by 16% this year, and violent crime is down 6%.

3. Drug Problems

Like many cities across the country, Spokane has been significantly impacted by the opioid epidemic and other substance abuse issues. Drugs like methamphetamines and opioids are prevalent, leading to increased crime and public health concerns. You may notice more discarded needles or see people using substances in public places.

First responders are responding to an alarming number of overdoses every day, with the number rising each year. While this is part of a national crisis, it’s a reality Spokane is grappling with as well.

4. Smoke from Wildfires

Spokane’s location makes it vulnerable to wildfires during the summer, and when fires break out, the air quality can become hazardous. If you have respiratory issues or are sensitive to smoke, this is a serious concern. Some summers are worse than others, with weeks of hazardous air where it’s advised to stay indoors.

While this past summer wasn’t too bad, previous years have seen several smoky days where the air was nearly unbreathable. Wildfire season typically hits in late summer, but it’s always something to be prepared for.

5. Housing Market & Lack of New Developments

Spokane’s housing market has been hot for a while, and the demand for housing continues to outpace supply. The city is currently about 30,000 homes short of where it needs to be, and while new homes are being built, many feel that the developments aren’t thoughtful or well-planned.

Some clients moving to Spokane from other states, like Texas, have noted that the housing developments here don’t offer the same community amenities like parks, pools, or gyms. Most of Spokane’s neighborhoods are older, and the ones that do offer amenities like Eagle Ridge are in high demand, making it challenging for new buyers to find their perfect spot.

6. Political Environment

Spokane’s political scene is split almost evenly between conservative and liberal viewpoints, making for a politically diverse and sometimes contentious atmosphere. While the city itself leans more liberal, the surrounding county is more conservative, creating a mix of opinions that can lead to heated debates.

This diversity can be a positive for those who appreciate different perspectives, but it can also be challenging if you're used to a more politically homogenous environment. To get a feel for Spokane’s political landscape, you can use resources like voting maps to see how different neighborhoods lean politically.

7. Limited Indoor Activities

Spokane is an outdoor lover’s paradise, but if you’re someone who prefers indoor activities, you may find the options a bit limited. While there are museums, indie theaters, and some shopping options, Spokane lacks the bustling indoor recreational scene you’d find in larger cities.

If you’re not into hiking, skiing, or water sports, you might have to be more proactive about finding things to do, especially during the long winter months when outdoor activities are less appealing.

Every city has its pros and cons, and Spokane is no different. If you're a local, feel free to share what you think are the downsides of living in Spokane in the comments below. If you’re thinking about moving here, what concerns you the most? Spokane may have its challenges, but it’s still a place many people call home, and for good reason.

If you're looking for more information about Spokane or want help finding the right neighborhood for you, don’t hesitate to reach out! And if you’re curious about all the fun things Spokane has to offer, check out our next post where we explore activities for every personality type.