Is Colville Safe, Pros and cons of living in Colville
Is it Safe to Live in Colville?
Colville presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates significantly lower than national averages. Violent crime is particularly rare, with a very low chance of being a victim. Property crime rates are also below the national average, contributing to the overall sense of security in the community. (as reported by NeighborhoodScout, AreaVibes, FBI Crime Data Explorer)
The city’s crime rate is considerably lower than both national and state averages. Colville is considered safer than a majority of cities across the United States. Your likelihood of experiencing crime is notably lower compared to many other communities. (as reported by NeighborhoodScout, AreaVibes)
Crime Statistics Overview
In Colville, the overall crime rate is approximately 43.40 per 1,000 residents annually. Violent crimes, such as assault or robbery, occur at a much lower frequency than in most of the U.S. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 2,505. (as reported by NeighborhoodScout, AreaVibes)
Property crime, which includes offenses like burglary and theft, is also below the national average. The rate for property crime in Colville is approximately 5 per 1,000 residents. This places Colville in a favorable position regarding safety when compared to many other towns and cities. (as reported by NeighborhoodScout)
Pros and Cons of Living in Colville
Cost of Living
Colville offers a cost of living that is more affordable than both the national average and the average for Washington State. This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, making it an attractive option for those seeking to manage expenses. Housing costs, in particular, are more budget-friendly. (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute, Salary.com)
Transportation and healthcare costs in Colville are also generally lower than the U.S. average. While food costs might be slightly less affordable than the national average, the overall financial picture remains favorable. This economic advantage allows residents to potentially save more or allocate funds to other priorities. (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute)
Housing Market
The housing market in Colville presents a compelling value proposition, with median home values significantly below the national average. This affordability makes homeownership more accessible for a broader range of individuals and families. The rental market also reflects this trend, with average rents considerably lower than the national median. (as reported by Niche, Zillow, realtor.com®)
Colville is considered a buyer’s market, indicating that there is a healthy supply of homes available relative to demand. This can translate to more negotiation power for prospective buyers. The median home value in Colville is approximately $226,300, and the median rent is around $912 per month. (as reported by Niche, Zillow)
Job Market and Economy
The job market in Colville, while having some specific industry strengths, has seen a slight decline in overall employment in recent periods. The most common employment sectors for residents include healthcare and social assistance, manufacturing, and other services. Government also represents a significant employment sector in the broader Stevens County. (as reported by Data USA, Employment Security Department)
The unemployment rate in Stevens County was 6.8% in March 2026, which is higher than the state and national averages. However, the economy has been diversifying, moving from resource extraction to service-providing jobs and manufacturing. Recent demand in housing and recreational markets, along with machinery manufacturing, has supported job growth. (as reported by Employment Security Department)
Climate and Weather
Colville experiences a climate with four distinct seasons, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm summers. The average annual temperature ranges from a low of around 22°F in December to a high of approximately 91°F in July. The city receives moderate snowfall, with December typically being the snowiest month. (as reported by myPerfectWeather)
Annual precipitation in Colville is moderate, with the highest amounts typically occurring in November and December. Summers are generally warm and pleasant, with low humidity, while winters can be chilly and cloudy. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, making them suitable for outdoor activities. (as reported by myPerfectWeather, U.S. Climate Data)
Demographics
Colville has a population of approximately 4,998 residents, with a median age of 44.1 years. The population is relatively evenly distributed across age groups, with a significant portion of residents being older adults. The racial makeup is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of Hispanic and other racial groups. (as reported by Point2Homes, Data USA, Colville Demographics)
The median household income in Colville was reported as $56,558 in 2024. A notable portion of residents, around 21.9%, live below the poverty line, which is higher than the national average. The majority of households are owner-occupied, with a smaller percentage being renters. (as reported by Data USA, Colville Demographics, Niche)
Education in Colville
School District Performance
The Colville School District is considered above average, serving a student population of approximately 1,719. The district has a student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1. While state test scores indicate some areas for improvement in math and reading proficiency, the district ranks among the better school districts in Washington State. (as reported by Niche, Colville School District)
Colville School District is ranked among the top school districts in Washington for its teachers and for athletes. The district is composed of several schools, including elementary, junior high, and senior high levels, each with their own performance metrics and ratings. (as reported by Niche)
Major Employers and Economic Landscape
Colville’s economy is supported by a range of employers, with significant contributions from the Colville Tribal Federal Corporation (CTFC) and local healthcare facilities. The CTFC is a major employer, managing enterprises in gaming and wood products and employing over 500 people. Mid Valley Hospital & Clinic and North Valley Hospital & Nursing Home are also key employers in the healthcare sector. (as reported by The Economic Alliance, Colville Tribal Federal Corporation)
Other notable employers in the area include Walmart, McDonald’s, UPS, and the United States Postal Service. The economy has diversified over the years, with growth in service-providing jobs, manufacturing, and healthcare, driven in part by an increasing retiree population. (as reported by Data USA, Indeed.com)