Is Moses Lake Safe, Pros and cons of living in Moses Lake
Moses Lake, Washington, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a growing economy, situated in the heart of the Columbia Basin. This city, known for its expansive lake and agricultural roots, has evolved into a community with diverse industries and a welcoming atmosphere. Its strategic location provides access to outdoor recreation while fostering business development.
The city’s landscape is dominated by the Moses Lake, a significant body of water offering numerous recreational opportunities. Surrounded by rich farmland, Moses Lake has historically been a hub for agriculture, but it has also attracted a variety of industries due to its affordable power and land. This economic diversification contributes to the city’s steady growth and evolving identity.
Is it Safe to Live in Moses Lake?
Moses Lake experiences crime rates that are higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is approximately 122.3 per 100,000 residents, which is about 15.1% above the national average (as reported by FBI crime data). Property crime rates are significantly higher, averaging 393.6 per 100,000 residents, placing them about 140.6% above the national average (as reported by FBI crime data).
More specifically, while the rate of robbery is lower than the national average, aggravated assaults are also a concern within the city. Property crimes, including burglary and larceny, are notably above national figures. In 2024, the city recorded 107 violent crimes, an increase from previous years, with aggravated assaults being the most common (as reported by FBI crime data and Grant County Trends). The chance of becoming a victim of any crime in Moses Lake is about 1 in 22 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
Housing Market and Cost of Living
The housing market in Moses Lake presents a mix of affordability and rising values. The median sale price of a home was approximately $374,000 in a recent month, showing a year-over-year increase of 13.1% (as reported by Redfin). Another report indicates a median sale price of $355,167 as of February 2026 (as reported by Zillow).
Rental costs in Moses Lake are generally lower than the national average. The average rent for all property types is around $1,600 per month (as reported by Zillow), and another source states the average monthly rent is $1,517 (as reported by RentCafe). This makes renting a more accessible option for many compared to national trends.
Overall, the cost of living in Moses Lake is slightly higher than the national average, estimated at 3% above (as reported by Redfin). However, housing costs in Moses Lake are about 6% cheaper than the U.S. average (as reported by RentCafe). Utilities in Moses Lake are notably less expensive, costing about 26% less than the national average (as reported by RentCafe).
Job Market and Economy
Moses Lake’s economy is supported by a diverse range of major employers across various sectors. Key industries include agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, with companies such as Basic American Foods, Chemi-Con Materials Corp., and REC Silicon being significant contributors to local employment (as reported by Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce). The city also benefits from its strategic location and access to transportation infrastructure.
The average salary in Moses Lake is around $55,099 annually, which translates to approximately $26.49 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). Another source estimates the average salary to be $67,841 per year (as reported by ERI SalaryExpert). The unemployment rate in Moses Lake was 8.30% in a recent report, which is lower than its long-term average (as reported by YCharts).
Climate and Weather
Moses Lake experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm and dry, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s Fahrenheit, while winters are cold with average low temperatures dipping into the 20s Fahrenheit (as reported by NOAA and Western Regional Climate Center). The city receives a moderate amount of precipitation annually, with most of it falling during the cooler months.
The average annual temperature in Moses Lake is around 54.57°F (as reported by NOAA). Rainfall amounts are relatively low, averaging about 1.43 inches per year (as reported by NOAA). Snowfall is also common during the winter months, contributing to the seasonal changes in the region.
Education and Schools
The Moses Lake School District serves the educational needs of the community, encompassing several elementary, middle, and high schools. The district has a student-teacher ratio of approximately 18 to 1 (as reported by Niche). While the district receives an overall “C” grade from Niche, individual schools and programs vary in their ratings.
State test scores indicate that a portion of students are proficient in reading, though math proficiency is a reported area for improvement. Reviews from students and parents highlight dedicated teachers and a generally positive school experience, though some mention challenges related to budget cuts and resources (as reported by Niche).
Demographics and Community
Moses Lake is a growing city with a population of approximately 26,083 residents as of the most recent U.S. Census data, making it the 49th most populous city in Washington State (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). The community is diverse, with White residents making up about 54.7% of the population, followed by Hispanic residents at 34.9% (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). Other racial and ethnic groups are also represented, contributing to the city’s cultural fabric.
The median age in Moses Lake is 32.3 years, indicating a relatively young population (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). The median household income was reported at $74,752 in 2024 (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau). Despite this, a portion of families, around 13.2%, live below the poverty line (as reported by U.S. Census Bureau).