Is Charleston safe for solo female travelers?

Charleston, is generally quite safe for solo female travelers. There is a visible police presence, especially in the historic downtown area, and locals are typically friendly and willing to help out-of-towners. It is always advisable to observe typical precautions such as not walking alone late at night, especially in less populated or poorly lit areas, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. But overall, many solo female travelers have found Charleston to be a welcoming and safe environment.

Safety rating

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How safe is Charleston for female travelers?

Travel safety index

3.5 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Zofia

Zofia

Poland

Solo travel

Charleston is a beautiful place especially downtown with rainbow row and pineapple fountain! However it's not a safest place and you can get scammed. But overall as a woman I felt safe and I could walk through the city unbothered. I recommend visiting!

Posted: July 14, 2024Experienced: June, 2024
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Helen

Helen

United States

Solo travel

Charleston is my favorite city on the east coast! Great food, music, activities, pools, beaches, architecture- all of it makes me want to move there. People are very friendly 99% of the time and everyone I know who lives there still love that they live in Charleston.

Posted: June 14, 2024Experienced: June, 2023
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Or

Or

United States

Solo travel

As I strolled through the charming streets of Charleston, WV, the warm sunlight danced on the historic buildings, creating a picturesque scene. Intrigued by the allure of Tyler Book, I stepped inside to discover shelves filled with literary treasures. To my delight, I found myself enveloped in the soothing melodies of live music drifting from a cozy corner. Savoring a rich cup of coffee, I perused the aisles, admiring the diverse collection of books. As the evening approached, I was pleasantly surprised to find they also offered fine wine, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to my hour of literary indulgence.

Posted: April 13, 2024Experienced: April, 2024
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How safe is Charleston for women?

Local safety index

3.7 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

Local crime index

1.8 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

jenna

jenna

North Charleston isn’t the safest, but Downtown Charleston is okay! I feel safe for the most part, but wouldn’t walk around by myself at night. I also have never really had a reason to, so can’t say too much on that.

Posted: July 20, 2025
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I mean it’s fine as long as you don’t visit downtown by yourself at night overall though nice little spots to see. I think it’s safe in my opinion I haven’t had any issues. Just be aware and careful of certain people

Posted: March 30, 2025
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Where I am located Charleston is quite safe! We’re about 2 miles from the beach on James Island. I never feel uncomfortable around the house though I haven’t taken public transportation in the area so not sure how that is.

Posted: December 24, 2024
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Cece

Cece

Charleston is a very safe place in the downtown, Mt Pleasant, West Ashley, James Island, John's Island, Folly Beach, Sullivan's Island, and Isle of Palms areas. I have ran early morning before sunrise, biked before and after sun rise and sunset, stayed out late downtown and always felt safe. There is so many people around. Do watch your drinks, though, to be extra safe!!

Posted: June 14, 2024
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It is a beautiful old historic city with many gorgeous area but also will find some more fun down areas in the mix. It is a number one travel destination in the United States so, in turn, there is always people around which makes it feel even more safe because you don’t feel alone!! 11/10 would recommend a visit :)

Posted: June 13, 2024
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Safety in United States