Is Madison Safe for Women? Crime Rate in Madison

Madison, WI is a very safe city. I have lived here for 8+ years and have never really felt like I was in danger. Wisconsinites are generally very kind and will chat and help. There are sometimes strange people downtown at night, but mostly they just yell at people to keep to themselves. Downtown is usually packed with college students, and is considered pretty dang safe.

Madison is a bustling college town full of students and young adults pursuing career goals. Lots of restaurants and local businesses with a relatively small homeless population. I’ve had interactions with some of them and rarely have I ever felt in danger of any kind.

Madison is a fairly safe area, but varies by neighborhood. The olbrich park area of the east side is very safe and family friendly. There is a botanical garden, large park, and bike path. Downtown can be questionable at night, and other bar heavy areas.

Madison is a very safe area to live in- I have been here for the majority of my life and I have never felt unsafe. The police are very present and attentive, crime rate is next to nothing, and the people are friendly for the most part!

Madison is a lovely city, downtown has more homeless & crime but I have never had an issue growing up here! Just use normal precautions and I wouldn’t walk alone after dark just personally I prefer not to as you never know

Madison in general is a super safe city! With the university near the capital, it feels like there are always people around. The few times I’ve taken the public transit, it’s also felt very safe, and recently there have been updates to the transit system (which consists of public buses at this point). The city is pretty clean, fairly small, and crime rates are relatively low. That said, I used to work at the central library downtown, and I would sometimes feel uncomfortable walking home alone in the dark on week day when few people were out- it was near the homeless shelter, and some of the patrons with mental health issues would be on the sidewalk yelling or acting aggressively, which could be a little scary. I also wouldn’t be out really late on the far east or west side. Going out downtown or in one of the residential suburbs feels very safe though! As always, keep your wits about you!

Use normal precautions and common sense, madison is a fairly safe place but always be careful like any city. In comparison to Chicago and Milwaukee is it very tame. I rarely feel worried or stressed about things like that.

Solo travel

I had so much fun in Madison last August. It’s a very charming city with lots of outdoor activities and foods to try. The bar scene is huge due to the college campus so going out is an obvious choice when visiting.

Solo travel

Madison was oh-so-charming! I love the Victorian architecture and history. One of the cutest cities I’ve visited - can’t wait to go back at some point! I stayed at the Mansion Hill Inn, which was breathtaking and had top-notch customer service. Everyone I encountered in Madison was so friendly! A highlight of my trip was touring the elaborate capitol building. I took so many photos, and it was great to learn so much about its history! There are also great museums and restaurants.